5 alternatives to replace meat in your meals
In contrast to earlier substitutes that were promoted just for vegetarians, these alternatives are meant to taste like meat while adding nutritional value.
Over the last few years, there has been a significant transformation in consumer behaviour towards food with people becoming more conscious about what they consume.
Furthermore, an increased awareness around animal abuse, and worries about issues like climate change, excessive greenhouse gas emissions, deforestation, the water problem, and global warming have made even many more aware of their carbon footprint.
As a result, a lot of consumers are substituting meat products in their diets with plant-based alternatives.
Here are a few notable alternatives you too can try.
Jackfruit
Jackfruit may have a slightly sweet flavour, but if you braise it in the right savoury sauces, you’ll hardly be able to tell the difference.
Unripe jackfruit has a stringy, meaty texture akin to that of beef or pork as opposed to ripe jackfruit. This is a big factor as to why jackfruit is such a well-liked meat substitute, as is the fruit's ability to accept the flavour of whatever it's cooked in.
However, it doesn’t provide enough protein to be considered a nutritious substitute. Hence it is advised to consume jackfruit with other sources of plant-based protein like beans to balance it out.
Tofu
Condensed soy milk is used to make tofu, which is then pressed into blocks of different stiffness, much as milk with dairy is used to make cheese.
The necessary amino acids that a person needs for optimum health are all present in tofu, making it a rich source of protein.
People can attempt marinating tofu to give it the flavour they want because it is extremely adaptable and has a mild flavour. Some people add it into hot foods like soups and stir-fries or use it as an egg substitute.
Seitan
Seitan comes from wheat gluten. The production process removes the starch from the wheat, usually by rinsing it with water. This process leaves behind a protein-dense food, which has a texture similar to that of chicken and a mild taste.
However, since it’s made of wheat proteins, people with gluten sensitivities, intolerances, allergies, or Celiac disease should stay away.
Soy
Soy
Soy is a great ingredient for meat and dairy substitutes. Pressure-cooked and pressure-dried soybeans has a texture and structure that is relatively similar to meat.
The fact that soy is a complete protein source is the strongest argument in favour of using it as a meat and dairy alternative. It consequently contains all of the necessary amino acids, which we cannot produce on our own and must therefore be received through diet.
A vegan festival with a difference. On the menu: mock meat and vegan cheese
Chickpeas
Chickpeas can resemble chicken and turkey meat in terms of colour and chewiness. Chickpeas can substitute poultry in your favourite sandwich salads if they are coarsely mashed. They can be combined with breadcrumbs to make delectable burgers and kid-friendly nuggets.
Additionally, you may simply add them whole to soup and pot pie recipes. Use the same quantity of cooked chickpeas (by volume or weight) whether the chicken or turkey is cooked or uncooked.
Edited by Saheli Sen Gupta
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