Looking to live a plant-based lifestyle or simply want to cut back on meat consumption? For health, environmental and ethical reasons, plant-based diets are on the rise. Plant foods have gotten innovative, and there are now an incredible amount of vegan products to choose from. Check out this list of 11 meat and dairy alternatives you won’t want to miss.
1. Cultures For Health Real Tempeh Starter Culture
Tempeh is a popular meat substitute that’s versatile and tasty. If you love the nutty, smoky flavor of tempeh, and feel adventurous, this tempeh culture starter kit is for you. It includes everything you need to ferment your own tempeh, giving you ultimate control. Plus, it’s soy free, and you can choose the beans you want to ferment.
2. Now Real Food Organic Textured Soy Protein
Craving tacos, chili, sloppy joes or hearty pasta sauce? Swap out meat wand use textured soy protein granules instead. This gluten-free, all-purpose meat alternative can easily replace ground beef or turkey crumbles in your favorite recipes. It naturally absorbs the flavors you cook with it – so get creative with your cooking!
This soft tofu product is low fat, rich and creamy. It can be used as a replacement for dairy and eggs in recipes, and it makes a great addition to dips, sauces and smoothies (try it in this homemade mango ice cream recipe!). It’s also shelf-stable so you can keep a block or two on hand for emergency occasions.
4. Sophie’s Kitchen Vegan Black Pepper Toona
Miss fish? This black pepper spiced toona is an excellent vegan substitute to use in your favorite tuna dishes. Mix it with carrots and celery and vegan mayo for a tuna salad sandwich or tuna-noodle casserole. Now you can enjoy the taste of the sea without the fish.
Jerky is a classic snack that’s now widely available in plant-based form. Noble Vegan Jerky has a great chewy texture and bold flavor. It won’t go bad, so you can stock up for all of your road trip plans. Try original, sweet BBQ, teriyaki or chipotle varieties.
6. Parma Vegan Parmesan – Better Than Bacon
Sprinkle on some of this vegan, gluten-free and soy-free condiment for smoky bacon, cheesy flavor. It pairs well with veggies, salads, soups, pasta, popcorn and more.
7. Edward & Sons Bouillon Not-Chick’n Cubes
Soup’s on! Add one of these gluten-free Not-Chick’n cubes to the pot, and you’ll have a satisfying, wholesome vegan broth. Use them in your favorite soups, stews and sauces. Or, toss one in to give any recipe any extra boost of flavor.
9. Simply Organic Vegetarian Chili Mix
Need a quick and healthy seasoning for your chili dish? This organic mix by Simply Organic is full of spices and ready to go. Combine it with onions, garlic and rice, and add in some mock meat crumbles, beans, TVP or tofu to create an epic chili base.
10. Neat Foods Vegan Meat Replacement Southwest Mix
Forget frozen veggie burger patties. This spiced-up fake meat mix lets you make southwestern-flavored burgers, meatballs and more – just add water, shape and cook. It can also be served crumble style for tacos, chili and other ground beef-style dishes.
11. Loma Linda Thai Red Curry With Coconut & Mock Duk
This creamy and aromatic Thai-inspired dish – featuring faux/vegan duck “meat” tender pieces – will fill you up and satisfy curry cravings. It’s shelf stable and comes in a quick-cooking microwavable pouch that makes it excellent for meals on the go.
