18 Delicious Meat Substitutes You Can Find in Stores

Switching to a meat-free diet doesn’t mean you have to give up your favorite flavors and textures. Today, there are so many amazing meat alternatives out there that taste great and are easy to cook with. Whether you’re cutting back on meat for health reasons, sustainability, or animal welfare, these products will help you enjoy your meals just as much as before.

Beyond Meat Beyond Burger

The Beyond Burger by Beyond Meat stands out as one of the most popular beef alternatives. It is made primarily from pea protein isolate, offering a texture and flavor remarkably similar to ground beef. The burger is also enriched with beet juice extract, which gives it a meat-like color. Besides being a great source of protein, it is free from soy and gluten, catering to various dietary needs. The Beyond Burger also contains a blend of coconut oil and canola oil, providing a juicy and satisfying mouthfeel. It’s available in most grocery stores and is widely used in restaurants.

Impossible™ Savory Ground Sausage

Impossible Foods’ Savory Ground Sausage is a versatile plant-based sausage alternative. Made from soy protein, it delivers a high protein content while maintaining a texture similar to traditional ground sausage. This product is seasoned with a blend of spices that mimic the flavor profile of real sausage. It’s perfect for breakfast dishes, pizzas, and pasta sauces. The Impossible Sausage also boasts lower cholesterol levels compared to animal-based sausage. Furthermore, it’s widely available and often used in fast-food chains.

Noble Plate Plant-Based Meatless Crumbles

Noble Plate’s meatless crumbles are versatile and protein-packed, making them an excellent substitute for ground meat. They’re a nutritious option for tacos, burrito bowls, chilis, and more. The pea-based product requires rehydration with hot water or broth before use. Once rehydrated, they can be used in a 1:1 ratio to replace ground beef. This product is also shelf-stable, which makes it convenient for storage and quick meal preparation. It’s a great choice for those seeking a cholesterol-free, gluten-free option.

Daring Original Plant Chicken Pieces

Daring Foods’ Original Plant Chicken Pieces are a standout chicken substitute made from soy protein. These pieces are crafted to replicate the texture and flavor of real chicken, making them ideal for various dishes. They are seasoned lightly, allowing for versatility in different recipes. The product is also non-GMO and gluten-free, accommodating different dietary preferences. Daring’s chicken pieces are also lower in calories and saturated fats compared to traditional chicken. They are available in major grocery stores and through online retailers.

Upton’s Naturals Bar-B-Que Jackfruit

Upton’s Naturals Bar-B-Que Jackfruit is a fantastic substitute for pulled meats like pork. This product uses young jackfruit to mimic the texture of pulled meat, perfect for sandwiches and wraps. It’s shelf-stable and requires simple preparation, heating in a skillet for a few minutes. It’s a low-calorie, high-fiber option. Although not high in protein, it’s a flavorful addition to plant-based meals. The product is processed in an allergen-free facility, making it a safe choice for many consumers.

Quorn Meatless Nuggets

Quorn Meatless Nuggets are made using mycoprotein, derived from a type of fungi. These nuggets are designed to mimic the taste and texture of chicken nuggets. They are a good source of protein and fiber, making them a nutritious choice. The nuggets are pre-cooked and easy to prepare, ideal for quick meals. Quorn also emphasizes sustainability, with a lower environmental impact compared to traditional meat. These nuggets are popular among children and adults alike.

Gardein Fishless Filets

Gardein Fishless Filets offer a plant-based alternative to fish, using soy, wheat, and pea proteins. These filets are coated in a crispy breading, making them perfect for fish and chips or fish tacos. They are also enriched with omega-3 fatty acids, mimicking the nutritional benefits of fish. Gardein’s filets are non-GMO and free from cholesterol. They are widely available in grocery stores and well-received for their taste and texture.

Tofurky Plant-Based Deli Slices

Tofurky’s Plant-Based Deli Slices are made from a blend of wheat and tofu. These slices are available in various flavors, including Smoked Ham, Oven-Roasted, and Peppered. They are perfect for sandwiches, providing a protein-packed alternative to traditional deli meats. Tofurky deli slices are also cholesterol-free and lower in saturated fat. They have a long shelf life and are available in most grocery stores.

Lightlife Smart Bacon

Lightlife’s Smart Bacon offers a plant-based alternative to traditional bacon, using soy protein. This product is designed to provide the crispy texture and smoky flavor of real bacon. It’s lower in fat and calories compared to pork bacon, making it a healthier option. Smart Bacon is also cholesterol-free and contains no nitrates. It cooks quickly and can be used in a variety of breakfast dishes and sandwiches.

MorningStar Farms Veggie Grillers Crumbles

MorningStar Farms Veggie Grillers Crumbles are a versatile ground beef substitute made from soy protein. These crumbles are pre-cooked and easy to incorporate into recipes such as tacos, chili, and spaghetti. They offer a high protein content with fewer calories and fat compared to ground beef. The crumbles are seasoned lightly, allowing for flexibility in various dishes. MorningStar Farms products are widely available and have a reputation for quality.

Gardein Seven Grain Crispy Plant-Based Chick’n Tenders

Gardein has long been a staple in the vegan meat industry, known for its reliable and tasty products. These chick’n tenders get crispy in the air fryer or oven, mimicking regular chicken nuggets. Each serving provides 10 grams of protein, making them a nutritious choice. While the bags are relatively small, the flavor and texture make them a favorite among kids and adults alike. They’re perfect for dipping in sauces or adding to wraps and salads. Made from soy protein isolate, they are widely accessible and reasonably priced.

Beyond Meat Beyond Steak, Plant-Based Seared Tips

Beyond Steak Tips offer a remarkably meaty experience for those missing steak. These versatile tips can be used in tacos, burrito bowls, and BBQ dishes. They’re a substantial replacement for meat. However, they are made from wheat gluten, making them unsuitable for those with gluten intolerance. These steak tips are also processed on shared equipment with soy products. Their realistic texture can sometimes be too much for long-time vegans, but they’re a great option for those seeking a familiar taste.

No Evil Foods Plant Meats

No Evil Foods offers a range of plant-based meats, including the Comrade Cluck ‘No Chicken’, El Zapatista ‘Chorizo’, and Pit Boss ‘Pulled Pork’. These products are made from wheat and soy protein, delivering a meaty texture and robust flavors. No Evil Foods emphasizes sustainability and uses minimal packaging. Their products are high in protein and free from cholesterol. They are versatile and can be used in various recipes.

Beyond Meat Beyond Sausage

Beyond Sausage by Beyond Meat is another popular product, available in flavors like Brat Original, Hot Italian, and Sweet Italian. Made from pea, rice, and faba bean protein, these sausages offer a juicy and satisfying texture. They are also enriched with apple extract and beet juice for flavor and color. Beyond Sausage is gluten-free and lower in saturated fat compared to traditional sausages. They are perfect for grilling and available in most grocery stores.

Tofurky Plant-Based Chick’n

Tofurky Plant-Based Chick’n is made from a blend of soy and wheat protein, providing a versatile chicken substitute. It is available in various pre-seasoned flavors, such as Lightly Seasoned and BBQ. Tofurky Chick’n is high in protein and fiber, making it a nutritious option. It’s also cholesterol-free and lower in fat compared to real chicken. This product is perfect for stir-fries, salads, and sandwiches.

Sweet Earth Enlightened Foods Benevolent Bacon

Sweet Earth’s Benevolent Bacon offers a smoky and crispy alternative to traditional bacon. Made from a blend of wheat and soy protein, it’s lower in fat and calories. This product is also enriched with fiber and has no cholesterol. Benevolent Bacon is easy to cook and can be used in various breakfast dishes and sandwiches. Sweet Earth emphasizes the use of natural ingredients and sustainable practices.

Dr. Praeger’s Pure Plant Protein Veggie Burgers

Dr. Praeger’s Veggie Burgers are crafted from a blend of pea protein, sweet potatoes, and carrots. These burgers are gluten-free and non-GMO, catering to various dietary needs. They are also lower in calories and fat compared to traditional meat burgers. Dr. Praeger’s veggie burgers offer a flavorful and satisfying texture, making them a popular choice. They are available in most grocery stores and easy to prepare.

Beyond Meat Meatballs

Beyond Meat’s meatballs are a favorite for their authentic texture and flavor. Pre-seasoned and packed with 19 grams of protein per serving, they’re a convenient option for spaghetti, subs, and more. Made from pea protein, these meatballs are also allergen-friendly, avoiding common allergens like soy. They have garnered positive reviews for their meaty taste and ease of preparation. While high in protein, they also provide a significant amount of dietary fiber. This makes them a nutritious choice for anyone looking to reduce their meat consumption.

This article originally appeared on RetailShout

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