What Are Plant-Based Meat Alternatives That Actually Taste Good

If you want to try out some vegan foods, plant-based meat alternatives are a great place to start. There are so many options for diners who still want protein and a filling meal, but also want to go vegetarian or vegan. At Organic Restaurants, we’ve rounded up a list of some tasty plant-based meat alternatives, including some you haven’t heard of. Try some of these next time you’re out at an organic vegan restaurant.

Beyond or Impossible Burgers

Beyond or “impossible” burgers are one of the newest meat alternatives on the market. The draw? They’re supposed to taste just like burgers made from meat do. They pack in a lot of protein, they’re gluten-free, and the texture is similar to that of a hamburger. If you’re just delving into plant-based meat alternatives for the first time, these burgers could be a great starting point.

Tofu

This is the “classic” plant-based protein. It’s packed with calcium, amino acids, and plenty of other nutrients. It’s also quite filling, just like meat-based protein. The key to tofu is the seasoning. The right seasoning can completely transform tofu. If you thought this plant-based alternative to meat was bland or boring, it simply wasn’t made right. The right spice mix makes all the difference.

Jackfruit

You may not have heard of jackfruit, but if you’re a fan of pulled pork you’re going to want to look into it some more. This fruit, strangely enough, can taste just like pulled pork with the right seasoning and preparation. We had some doubts ourselves, but plenty of cooks have found ways to make this fruit into a flavorful meat alternative that’s ideally suited to summer barbecues and pool parties.

Much like tofu, the jackfruit can take on a lot of the flavor of what it’s cooked in and the seasonings you use. So preparation is key. Jackfruit is delicious, but rest assured that it’s nutritious as well. It’s soy and gluten-free, and it comes packed with nutrients like vitamin C and potassium. If you’re looking for a healthier alternative to pulled pork or chicken sandwiches, you’re not going to find a more convincing plant-based alternative.

Tempeh

Tempeh is similar to tofu, in that it’s quite versatile and made from fermented soybeans. It can be used in salads, tacos, soups, and a variety of other dishes where you might have used meat before. It’s high in protein, just like tofu, and supplies other nutrients as well, from potassium to iron.

Tempeh does differ from tofu in a few key ways though. It has more of a taste of its own than tofu, a nuttier and sharper one. The texture is also different. Tempeh is a bit denser than tofu. As a result, these two plant-based alternatives certainly have their own unique uses and encourage experimentation.

For More Meat-Free Meal Ideas

If you’re interested in reading more about meat alternatives, the Organic Restaurants website can help. We’re here to help you learn more about your local organic eateries and your vegan and vegetarian food options.