People prefer to eat non-vegetarian foods rather than vegetarian foods !!! Non-veg foods are more delicious than veg foods. Non-vegetarian food items offer a more intense taste and flavor in comparison to vegetarian foods. Mommies are always concerned about how they can fill the kids’ plates with vegetables. Not only kids but also parents, and grandparents all love to eat non-veg delicious foods. Eating plant-based foods compromises texture, flavor or satisfaction. With innovative and creative vegetable substitutes, you can recreate the satisfaction and taste of your favorite non-veg diets and enjoy them more! In case you are a vegetarian, vegan or mainly looking to eliminate your intake of meat, these veggie substitutes can impress you with deliciousness and versatility. Let’s explore the best plant-based substitutions that can make you forget about non-veg entirely!!!!!!

Jackfruit- The Plant World’s Meat

We know that the texture and pull of shredded meats like pulled chicken or pork are not beatable by any vegetable. But yes, we have an option that can give you the same texture! It is jackfruit!! One cup serving of cooked jackfruit can give 157 calories. This fibrous and large fruit has a neutral flavor which can make it perfect for absorbing sauces and spices used in non-veg foods. If you are making curries, tacos or sandwiches, jackfruit can mimic the meaty texture and can give you satisfaction of eating something substantial and hearty.

How it works: You can buy a canned young green jackfruit in drain, rinse, brine and cook it with your favorite seasonings. Then shred it with a fork to mimic pulled meat. Then you would toss it in the BBQ curry, sauce or stir fry for a stunning meat free plate.

Tofu – Known as One of the Best Meat Substitutes

For vegetarians, Tofu is an excellent source of protein and also a preferred meat alternative. It is a great alternative due to its firm capacity and texture to absorb marinades. It gives a delightful chewiness that is best to stimulate the texture of beef, pork or chicken whether it is stir-fried, grilled or sauteed.

How to utilize it: You need to cut the tofu into small cubes after pressing it to reduce moisture. Cook it till it becomes golden brown after marinating into the best seasonings like soy sauce, BBQ. Tofu is great in stir fries, curries and also can be used as a meatball alternative.

Cauliflower – The All-round Veggie

Cauliflower is one of the preferred alternatives to the non-vegetarian recipes due to its mild capacity and flavor to absorb spices and sauces. It can be worked as a substitute for fish fillets, nuggets and chicken wings. Cauliflower can acquire a tender and crispy outside when it is battered, roasted giving it a meaty look. Not only taste, it also gives 27 calories/100gm. 

How it works: Coating cauliflower florets in batter and then baking or fried them to create a crunchy alternative to chicken wings. Then frying the cauliflower steaks to make a vegan fish fillet which tastes like fish. You will forget the meat if you add your preferred sauces including honey mustard or buffalo.

Chickpeas: The superstar in plant proteins

Despite the small size, chickpeas are a vital source of fiber and protein which can be utilized in a number of different recipes in place of meats like chicken or beef. When raw chickpeas can be roasted to serve it as a crunchy snack. Moreover, mashed chickpeas can give a creamy base for the dips or burgers.

How to utilize it: You can add lemon, herbs to mashed chickpeas and vegan mayo to create a salad substitute for tuna or chicken. To replicate the texture and crunch of chicken nuggets, you can roast them with the preferred seasonings or can use mashed chickpeas to create veggie burgers.Despite the small size, chickpeas are a vital source of fiber and protein which can be utilized in a number of different recipes in place of meats like chicken or beef. When raw chickpeas can be roasted to serve it as a crunchy snack. Moreover, mashed chickpeas can give a creamy base for the dips or burgers.

How to utilize it: You can add lemon, herbs to mashed chickpeas and vegan mayo to create a salad substitute for tuna or chicken. To replicate the texture and crunch of chicken nuggets, you can roast them with the preferred seasonings or can use mashed chickpeas to create veggie burgers.

Mushrooms: An abundance of umami

Mushrooms contain umami, the savory flavor which is frequently linked with meats and have a meaty texture, particularly shiitake. Due to earthy flavor, mushrooms can give a great alternative to lamb, beef or bacon in a number of recipes such as stews and burgers. 

How to utilize it: Portobello mushrooms can be utilized in a direct way in place of hamburgers. You need to marinade the caps, grill them and then heap them high with the toppings. Sliced shiitakes can be used as a meat foundation in pasta recipes, sauces or stir fries.

Summary

Nowadays due to health awareness, people prefer plant-based substitutes and these choices can give evidence that you can enjoy the textures and flavors of your favorite non-veg diets without missing a beat. From jackfruit to tofu, these veggie alternatives can give something for everyone if you are searching for a recreation of familiar diets with new ones. By incorporating these creative substitutions into the meals, you can shift your cooking and eating habits when staying kind to the planet and health. Happy cooking!