Vegan Meat Substitute Recipes - Megan Kerry (2024)

Hey guys! We are kicking off Veganuary strong with some of the BEST vegan meat substitution meals you can make-right at home! These recipes are curated from some of the best vegan bloggers out there!

Gluten Free and Vegan Chicken and Waffles

From Rebecca at Strength and Sunshine,

Comforting American soul food made healthy and plant-based! This Gluten-Free Vegan Chicken & Waffles recipe is not only a meatless wonder, but allergy-free, oil-free, made with crispy air fried cauliflower “chicken” and fresh, fluffy, homemade waffles. Serve it with maple syrup and maybe some hot sauce for an ultimate treat!”

Gluten Free and Vegan Chickpea Nuggets

Another great recipe from Rebecca-perfect for the kiddos!

An easy and healthy meatless nugget that the kids will love! Gluten-free & Vegan Chickpea Nuggets that are top 8 allergy-free, grain-free, and have a secret dose of veggies too! A deliciously fun plant-based recipe for little hands at lunchtime or dinner!

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Tempeh Hemp Seed “Meat” Plant Protein

From the Any Reason Vegans recipe blog!

Tempeh and hemp seeds are packed withplant based proteins. Plus they’re super tasty in savory recipes like tacos, burritos, and pasta. You will love this Tempeh Hemp Seed “Meat” Plant Protein Recipe. This easy vegan tempeh recipe is a healthyvegan meal recipe.”

Sticky Sesame Tofu with Broccoli

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Lori, of My Quiet Kitchen,

“This Sticky Sesame Tofu With Broccoli has become a go-to weeknight meal in our house. I love the meaty texture that broiling under high heat gives the tofu (without any oil). I’m also a sucker for nutty, barely fork-tender broccoli, and this recipe has both!”

Homemade Seasoned Seitan

Lori is also behind this seitan recipe. If you haven’t made your own seitan at home yet-you’re missing out!

Meaty, savory, and versatile homemade seitan! This easy to follow recipe will show you how to make seitan at home that’s as flavorful and delicious as store-bought but more affordable.This basic seitan recipe is seasoned enough to taste great on its own, but mild enough to use in a variety of dishes that call for seitan as an ingredient. You can slice it for sandwiches and wraps, crumble it for tacos and pizza, or cube it for everything from vegan beef stew toSeitan Bourguignon.

Baked Tofu Bites

This delicious recipe comes from Sherri and Greg of Watch Learn Eat. Here’s what they have to say,

These 5-ingredient gluten-free and vegan baked tofu bites are super easy to make and extremely versatile too! Hot out of the oven, they’re incredibly crispy on the outside and tender on the inside. Chill them in the fridge and they resemble leftover breaded chicken. Perfect alone, added to a salad or wrap or served with your favorite dipping sauce!

Looking for even more delicious tofu recipes? Check these out on the Megan Kerry blog:

  1. Teriyaki Tofu Vermicelli Bowl
  2. Basic Vegan Tofu Scramble
  3. Tofu Taco Meat
  4. Crispy Tofu Chicken

Gluten Free Vegan Buffalo Chickpea Meatballs

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Greg and Sherri created this recipe as well!

These gluten-free and vegan Buffalo Chickpea Meatballs are the perfect party appetizer! You can also enjoy these veggie balls over rice or quinoa for an easy dinner! These chickpea balls are extra delicious when drizzled with some homemadevegan ranch dressingand topped with chopped scallions.

Learn more about vegan meat substitutes here:

The Best Vegan Meatloaf with Cashew Gravy

Kristen Wood of Moon Spoon Yum created this amazing meatloaf! Check it out!

This Gluten-Free Vegan Meatloaf is truly a DELIGHT! It is easy to make, packed with flavor and rich in protein and fiber for a most delicious, healthy holiday meal or entree any time of year!”

Instant Pot Thai Peanut Curry and Rice

I love Thai flavors, and this recipe is the perfect way to enjoy them-vegan! Soniya from The Belly Rules the Mind blog created this recipe. She also showcases beautifully how to use pot in pot cooking to reduce your time in the kitchen even more using the instant pot.

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Sneaky Zucchini Meatballs Vegan

I love how Rosa of This Healthy Kitchen uses her yummy recipe to up the veggies!

If you’re having trouble getting veggies into your little ones (or yourself), these sneaky zucchini meatballs are for you! Loaded with veggies, and 100% wholesome ingredients, these “meatballs” are just what your dinner menu needs.

Vegan Tuna Pasta Salad

Truly any recipe can be made vegan as Courtney from Know Your Produce will show you!

“Bring this to your parties and potlucks for a great option that everyone can enjoy as it can also be made gluten-free. This is not my mama’s Tuna Macaroni Salad, but it’s pretty darn close! We use ourvegan tuna saladinstead of canned tuna or any faux tuna products. It is so delicious chilled or served right away so you can easily make this recipe to enjoy right away or prep it in advance.”

Black Bean Tacos

Courtney also made these Black Bean Tacos! Such an easy weeknight meal idea!

“Black Bean Tacos are perfect for Taco Tuesday or any day! These tacos are vegan, gluten free, and packed with tons of flavor.”

Vegan Walnut Taco Meat

Vegan Meat Substitute Recipes - Megan Kerry (6)

Did you know you could use walnuts to replace ground beef? You do now! And let me tell you- Andrew and Larisha of Make it Dairy Free definitely know how to do it right!

The BEST Vegan Black Bean Burger

Find this one over on Make it Dairy Free as well! The Black Bean burger is a classic enjoyed by vegans and omni’s alike!

Smoked Apple Jackfruit

Guys, jackfruit is an incredible dupe for pulled pork! Jen from Whole Plant Foodie will show you exactly how to turn fruit into a satisfying meal!

Best Vegan Ribs Recipe-with Jackfruit!

Vegan Meat Substitute Recipes - Megan Kerry (7)

Jackfruit is awesome for pulled pork-and ribs! Check out Florentina’s recipe on The Veggie Society Blog!

The best vegan ribs made with tender meaty jackfruit, wheat gluten and all the traditional smoky barbecue spices. These ribs are sure to impress even the pickiest meat eaters, a must make on your griddle, in the oven or your outdoor grill!”

5 Ingredient Easy Vegan Chicken

I love how easy Valerie from Very Vegan Val makes it to create plant protein at home!

Spicy Black Bean Vegan Deli Slices

Valerie also came up with a recipe to create our own deli slices right at home as well! Prefect for work week lunches!

Sausage Tofu Crumbles

Cindy from Veggie Fun Kitchen made an amazing sausage crumble recipe from tofu! This would be awesome in a vegan lasagna!

“This recipe for Vegan Sausage Tofu Crumbles only looks and tastes like sausage. It is 100% plant-based and oil-free too!

Easiest Chicken Style Seitan Recipe

Sophie from My Dainty Soul Curry created this recipe to make it even easier to make homemade mock meat-in the instant pot!

Vegan Meat Substitute Recipes - Megan Kerry (8)

Vegan Thanksgiving Turkey Roast

So I know we are just coming out of “turkey” season now, but this beautiful seitan roast by Jasmine of We Eat Cook Bake is such a nice Sunday dinner! Perfect for guests or to celebrate a special event.

Vegan Sloppy Joes with Lentils

What a fantastic, healthy sloppy joe recipe Sarah of Fried Dandelions created! As she says,

These Vegan Sloppy Joes with Lentils will instantly transport you back to your childhood! They are packed with protein, veggies, and flavor, and make a perfect weeknight dinner!

Vegan Southern Style Air Fryer Soy Curls

Vegan Meat Substitute Recipes - Megan Kerry (9)

Kathy from Healthy Slow Cooking is going to show you how to make soy curls taste amazing with a southern flare. If you haven’t tried soy curls yet-you are in for a treat. They couldn’t be easier to prepare *and* they are packed with protein!

Not sure where to buy them? You can follow this link to amazon to purchase the Butler Soy Curls needed for this recipe.

Beefless Beef Stew

Vegan Meat Substitute Recipes - Megan Kerry (10)

Oh you guys! Check out this photo! This stew looks absolutely delicious and as Steven from The Nut Free Vegan will tell you,

“This Beefless Beef Stew takes a little bit of time to make, but it’s totally worth the wait. I think you and your family will love the familiar taste, and take heart in the fact that you got it without harming any animals.”

What is Tempeh PLUS Best Tempeh Recipes

Let Marina of Yummy Mummy Kitchen explain how to best use tempeh to mimic your favorite meaty recipes!

Vegan Lentil Meatloaf

Vegan Meat Substitute Recipes - Megan Kerry (11)

Alena of Nutriciously has made such a delicious, hearty lentil loaf recipe. She says,

“Even once the holidays are over, this vegan meatloaf can beprepared on a lazy Sundayand enjoyed as a quick lunch or dinner throughout the week. The leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 5-6 days.”

Vegan Black Bean Meatballs with Zoodles

I had to include another recipe from Nutriciously because this one is so healthy and satisfying-perfect for the new year!

Maple Glazed Holiday Vegan Ham

Vegan Meat Substitute Recipes - Megan Kerry (12)

There is really no reason to eat animals when you can have this AMAZING holidays ham-meat free!! Hanne from Sunnyside Hanne created this masterpiece. As she says,

“Save a piggy! Make this clove studded, maple glazed, vegan seitan ham roast this Holiday! If you are looking for a centerpiece for your vegan holiday table this is it folks. Place this Vegan Ham roast on your favorite platter decorated withcharred pineapple and orange slices and studded with cloves. It looks stunning. It smells amazing and it tastes Divine. Take a moment to watch it glow in the candlelight and then dive right in! Each slice of thisVegan Ham Roast is salty, sweet, smoky, toothsome and tangy.

Smokey Maple Seitan Bacon

Hanne didn’t stop at ham, she’s created bacon too. That’s right people-no more “bacon tho” excuses! Hanne explains,

I have tested this smoky maple seitan bacon on omnivores and it rated two thumbs up.”

Vegan Breakfast Sausage Links

Vegan Meat Substitute Recipes - Megan Kerry (13)

Prefer sausage instead of bacon-or maybe you want a side of both (like me)? Teresa from A Plantiful Path has got you covered!

These Vegan Breakfast Sausage Links are amazing! Full of flavor and oil-free, smokey, spicy, and slightly sweet, they’re a perfect addition to your vegan breakfast!

Tempeh Vegan Taco Meat

Elena from Happy Kitchen Rocks says,

Hands downTHE BESTvegan taco meat made of tempeh that is as close as possible to the real thing. You just need 3 essential ingredients and 20 minutes to make this tried-and-true vegan meat recipe!

READ THIS NEXT: Vegan Meat Substitutes Explained: Tofu, Tempeh, TVP, Seitan and MORE!!

Follow along onPinterestfor more vegan inspiration!! I pin new recipes daily, from around the world!!

Here’s a Pin for your board so you can come back when you’re ready to try the next meaty dish!

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FAQs

What is the healthiest vegan meat alternative? ›

Specifically, meat substitutes like tofu, tempeh, and seitan have equal amounts of protein but with less saturated fat and more vitamins and minerals, besides B12.

What are three 3 examples of meat substitutes used in vegetarian and vegan dishes? ›

Australian Dietary Guidelines suggest nuts, seeds, legumes, beans and tofu as alternatives to animal foods for everyone, not just for those following vegetarian or vegan diets. These foods boost dietary variety and can be a valuable, affordable source of protein and other nutrients found in meat.

What is a popular vegetarian meat substitute? ›

Mushrooms. Mushrooms are one of the most popular vegetables to replace meat due to their savory umami flavor and meaty texture.

Is tofu a good meat replacement? ›

Tofu is the classic meat alternative and has been one of the basic sources of nutrition in Asia for centuries. It is appreciated in particular as a low-calorie source of protein. Tofu is also versatile as it easily absorbs aromas from spices and marinades.

What are the disadvantages of plant-based meat? ›

Con #1: Plant-based meat can be more heavily processed than animal meat. As some plant-based meat and mock meat products are created to replicate animal meat, they may undergo more processing. This leads to a high content of saturated fat, sodium, and added sugar.

Is seitan good or bad for you? ›

Is Seitan Healthy? In many ways, yes, seitan is quite a healthy option. The seitan nutrition facts are hard to argue with: notable amounts of protein, iron, calcium, selenium, phosphorus, and B vitamins. This combination of macro- and micronutrients can result in some pretty impressive health benefits.

Why vegan meat substitutes are the worst junk food? ›

Foods are more processed if they contain artificial ingredients or "natural flavors." In meat substitutes specifically, ingredients such as soy protein isolate, soy protein concentrate and textured vegetable protein are processed ingredients. That's bad news because ultraprocessed foods increase your risk of: Obesity.

What protein can I eat instead of meat? ›

5 Protein-Packed Foods for Healthy, Meatless Meals
  • Eggs. Eggs are a great source of protein. ...
  • Tree Nuts. Tree nuts include walnuts, almonds and pecans — don't confuse them with peanuts, which are legumes. ...
  • Legumes. Legumes include a range of beans and peas such as black beans, chickpeas and lentils. ...
  • Soy. ...
  • Yogurt.

Are chickpeas a good substitute for meat? ›

The colour and chewiness of chickpeas can mimic that of chicken and turkey meat. Roughly mashed, chickpeas can stand in for poultry in your favorite sandwich salads. Blended with breadcrumbs, they can be turned into mouth watering burgers and kid-friendly nuggets.

What tastes like meat but is vegan? ›

If you're not actually vegetarian, things like worcestershire, fish sauce, or beef stock can add a lot of that flavor you're looking for without adding meat directly. For actual vegan options: mushrooms, miso, fermented black bean, smoked salt, nutritional yeast, kombu, marmite.

What vegan food tastes like meat? ›

  • Mushroom. If you are really craving for that meaty taste and umami, mushrooms - especially shiitake mushrooms - will be the right choice for you. ...
  • Tofu. Tofu is the perfect substitute for chicken and can be cooked in several ways. ...
  • Jackfruit. ...
  • Brinjal. ...
  • Lentils. ...
  • Cauliflower. ...
  • Seitan. ...
  • Soya chunks.
Sep 21, 2023

What is seitan made out of? ›

Seitan is a plant-based meat substitute made from wheat gluten that mimics the flavor and texture of chicken. You can buy it in many health food supermarkets, or you can make it yourself. It's typically made out of vital wheat gluten, an ingredient that has a similar texture to flour but is mostly, well, gluten.

Is there a downside to eating tofu? ›

Health risks of eating tofu

Breast tumors: Because of tofu's weak hormonal effects, some doctors suggest that people with estrogen-sensitive breast tumors limit their soy intake. Thyroid issues: Some professionals also advise people with poor thyroid function to avoid tofu due to its goitrogen content.

What are the side effects of too much tofu? ›

The significant disadvantages of Tofu may cause allergies in some people. The symptoms of soy allergies include skin rash, inflammation, itching, fainting, breathing difficulty, abdominal pain and throat swelling. In rare scenarios, Tofu may cause osteoporosis and estrogen-related cancer.

Is it OK to eat tofu everyday? ›

Similarly, the American Cancer Society sees no dangers from eating soy. "For the vast majority of people, it should be reasonable to incorporate tofu in their daily diet without any issues," Sun said.

What is a healthy vegan meat? ›

Tempeh can be an awesome choice for picky eaters or newer vegans because it has a very inoffensive taste. While it does not aim to replicate the taste or exact texture of meat, with the right seasoning it can still hit the spot.

Can vegans be as healthy as meat eaters? ›

Overall it appears that that well-chosen vegan diets can provide adequate nutrition, and that on such a diet long-term health will be broadly similar to that of comparable people who eat moderate amounts of meat and also follow nutritional guidelines for good health.

Is there a healthy meat alternative? ›

Other options include tempeh and tofu: although less meat-like, they are a complete source of protein, which means they provide all nine of the essential amino acids we need.

Are vegans generally healthier than meat eaters? ›

Vegetarians and vegans typically have lower body mass index, serum low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol and blood pressure than comparable regular meat-eaters, as well as lower bone mineral density.

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