Plant-Based Meat, What Is It?

At PlantX, we understand that even the most dedicated vegans miss certain foods they were able to eat before going plant-based! It’s not always easy, but luckily for us there happens to be a huge range of different meat substitutes out there.

In fact, there’s so much choice, sometimes it can feel overwhelming. That’s where we come in! If you don’t know where to start, or aren’t even sure what plant-based meat is, you’ve come to the right place. 

So whether you’re 100% vegan, or are just looking to eat more plant-based food, it’s worth knowing about plant-based meat and its benefits. Read on for all the information you could need, starting with - what is plant-based meat?

What is plant-based meat?

Let’s start with the basics. What is plant-based meat? Plant-based meat is a catch-all term for plant-based foods which are used as meat substitutes. Many plant-based meat substitutes have been used for centuries in certain parts of the world

Popular examples you might have heard of are seitan or tofu. These plant-based substitutes are used to mimic meat products, like Hickory & Sage Seitan Bacon, or Tofurky Chick’n!

Here’s a few popular plant-based meat substitutes that we think work amazingly in a vegan diet, or are equally great if you’re trying to eat more plant-based foods. 

Tofu

Originating in China around 2000 years ago, tofu is a type of bean curd made from soybeans. In recent years, innovative vegan and vegetarian chefs have turned to tofu for a plant-based meat substitute. It’s high protein content and meat-like texture has proved to be a popular choice amongst the plant-based community! 

Seitan

Seitan, or wheat gluten, is another popular meat substitute that is famous for its ‘chicken-like’ texture. It also originated in China, and is made by washing wheat until all the starch is removed. It’s also high in protein and is great at taking on flavor and seasoning. 

Tempeh

Tempeh is made by fermenting soybeans to achieve a firm, meaty texture. It is a traditional Indonesian food, and has a strong, nutty flavor which people tend to either love or hate! We love it because it’s got a lot of goodness packed into it. It’s high in fiber, protein, magnesium and vitamin B! 

Pea Protein

Meat made from pea protein is another delicious vegan meat substitute, and a great option for those of us who can’t eat soy. This plant-based meat substitute often achieves a taste and texture that is very similar to real meat. Not only that, plant-based meat made from peas is a rich source of iron, fiber and essential amino acids. 

Jackfruit

As you can probably guess from its name, jackfruit is a fruit! Originating in southern India and some far eastern countries, it has been recently used in the vegan community as a plant-based meat substitute. It’s often used to make vegan ‘pulled pork’ because of its stringy, meat-like texture, but it can be used in a variety of vegan dishes!

What are the benefits of plant-based meat?

If you’re not convinced so far that plant-based meat is right for you, keep on reading! As well as great taste, there are so many amazing benefits of plant-based meat for you and the planet. 

Plant-based meat is diverse!

As we’ve established, there’s such a wide range of plant-based meat, that you’re bound to find one you like! Better yet, there’s so many different products out there for you to try. (Spoiler: We’ve listed our favorites down below!)

Plant-based meat is high in protein!

A big criticism of vegan and plant-based diets is often that they lack important nutrients that are often consumed via meat or dairy products. It turns out that a lot of plant-based meat, especially soy-based substitutes, is high in protein. You’re not missing out on anything here!

Plant-based meat can have health benefits over animal meat!

Consuming animal meat, specifically red and processed meat, has been linked to health problems and could potentially be carcinogenic. Although not all plant-based meat is of the same quality, many have positive health benefits. A study examining the effects of plant-based meat compared to animal meat showed that plant-based meat had no adverse effects and actually improved cardiovascular disease risk factors!

Plant-based meat is better for the environment!

The meat industry is notorious for having a damaging effect on the environment. According to research, animal agriculture contributes more to climate change than the entire transportation sector, whereas plant-based meat emits 30-90% less greenhouse gasses than conventional meat. By eating plant-based meat, you’ll be promoting animal welfare and helping to protect the planet - it’s basically a no brainer!

Where can I find the best plant-based meat products?

So far we’ve answered the main questions - what is plant-based meat and what are the benefits of plant-based meat. Now we’re moving on to where you can find some high-quality, ethical meat substitutes. And the answer is, right here on the PlantX website! 

If you don’t know where to start, we’ve picked out a few of our top plant-based meat products to help you out! 

Beyond Meat - Beyond Burger Plant-Based Patties

If a burger is what you’re craving, you need to try this product. Made from pea protein, these plant-based patties are super juicy and scarily meat-like in taste and texture!

Feed Your Head - Vegan Italian Sausage

Everyone needs a sausage from time to time, so get yourself some of these delicious vegan sausages from Feed Your Head. They’re made from wheat gluten which is a great source of protein! 

Gardein - Nashville Hot Chick’n Tenders

Dig your teeth into some juicy ‘chicken’ tenders! With a hint of paprika spice and a crunchy, breaded exterior, they’ll soon become a staple in your kitchen. 

Urban Accents - Meatless Mix Korean BBQ

Perfect for putting in wraps, tacos or salads, this high-fiber meatless mix is great for quick and easy meals! Made with soy flour, and seasoned with brown sugar, sesame seeds and soy sauce - every mouthful is an explosion of sweet and savory flavor. 

Tofurky - Treehouse Tempeh

Slice, chop or dice this tasty and versatile tempeh to put in your stir fries, salads or pasta! We love it for it’s chewy texture and earthy taste that almost resembles mushrooms. 

Can I make my own plant-based meat? 

If you’re feeling adventurous, try making your own plant-based meat meals! Plant-based meat is versatile and great at taking on flavor. Why not try making your own vegan hotdogs for you and your friends? Or, there’s a great recipe on our website that uses tofu as a delicious meat substitute. 

Conclusion:

Plant-based meat is great for a lot of reasons. Not only is it ideal for diversifying vegan diets and making plant-based food more accessible, it also has potential health benefits and proven environmental advantages. 

So go ahead and try some of our delicious plant-based meat products on the PlantX website. With so much to try, you’re destined to find the perfect product for you - whether you’re a committed, long-time vegan or just want to give it a try!