18+ Easy TVP Recipes (Textured Vegetable Protein) (2024)

FAQs

What can you use textured vegetable protein for? ›

Most commonly used as a plant-based meat alternative, textured vegetable protein isn't just a vegan food item. When it's not being used in animal-free products, it's used as a meat extender in dishes like soups, meatballs, chili, burgers and lasagna.

In short, the answer is yes. While TVP is a processed food, it's derived from a healthy ingredient and provides a complete source of plant-based protein essential to one's health. That being said, like anything, TVP should be enjoyed in moderation. Additionally, it should not be your only source of protein.

Potential downsides

Although TVP can be made from several different ingredients, it's typically made from soy. Soy is one of the most common allergens. If you have a soy allergy, consuming soy-based products can cause serious side effects, including anaphylaxis, which can be life threatening ( 14 ).

To rehydrate your TVP, pour boiling water or broth over the desired amount and let it soak for 5-10 minutes, or until it's reached the desired texture. Because textured vegetable protein is quite bland on its own, we recommend rehydrating it with a broth to boost its flavor before combining it with a meal.

You can eat it 'raw,' it's chewy but not tough like dehydrated chicken. It's pretty bland though. It has a weird smell, but not offensive. However, it doesn't taste weird (even raw).

To make textured vegetable protein, soybeans are first dried/dehydrated. Then they are ground in flour and made into crumbles of different sizes. TVP can be considered somewhat highly processed because it must be extruded, which causes a change in the structure of the soy protein.

Soy protein-containing foods, like tofu, textured vegetable protein and edamame, do not significantly increase estrogen levels in people of any sex. Soy may have mild, beneficial anti-estrogenic or estrogenic effects, depending on your time of life.

Tofu does not contain nearly as much protein per serving as TVP – 1 ounce of tofu contains 2 g of protein – but I still rank it as a higher quality protein because it is far less processed.

Plant proteins are often incomplete proteins, and therefore should be consumed in combination in order to serve as a complete protein. Some plant-based proteins are high in carbohydrates not ideal for anyone following a low-carb diet. Plant protein powders are typically more expensive than whey protein.

* Many meat-based recipes such as tacos, sloppy joes, chili, etc. can be easily adapted to IBS guidelines by substituting TVP (textured vegetable protein, a soy food available in health food stores) for the ground beef. Simply eliminate the cooking oil and season the TVP as you would the meat.

Is TVP high in histamine? ›

​ Textured Vegetable Protein (Textured Soy Protein) and other additives may best be avoided on a low histamine diet. Textured Vegetable Protein (Textured Soy Protein) may trigger the release of the body's existing histamine.

Textured Vegetable Protein is a highly nutritious soy product. It's rich in complete protein and contains no fat, so it is an excellent alternative to meat.

Plain TVP 1 cup yields 2 ¼ cups 3 oz. yields 14 oz. TVP can be added directly to soups and stews, or rehydrated for a healthy, meatless option. To rehydrate, add 2 cups of water to 1 cup of TVP and soak or simmer for 5-10 minutes.

Rinse TVP with cool water and drain. Gently squeeze out excess moisture. Add TVP and remaining ingredients to a large bowl, mix thoroughly. Spread TVP on lined baking sheet.

Textured Vegetable Protein® is an excellent alternative to meat and a vegan source of complete protein. TVP® easily absorbs the flavors of any recipe and makes delicious chili, tacos, meatballs and more. Note: Once TVP® has been rehydrated, it must be kept refrigerated.

Proteins are large, complex molecules composed of chains of amino acids. They are essential for many functions of our organism: help to manufacture, regenerate and maintain organs and all tissues such as skin, nails and tendons.

Textured Vegetable Protein® is an excellent alternative to meat and a vegan source of complete protein. TVP® easily absorbs the flavors of any recipe and makes delicious chili, tacos, meatballs and more. Note: Once TVP® has been rehydrated, it must be kept refrigerated.

Sprinkle it on your food

Adding protein powder directly onto your food is a great way to add a nutritional boost to your meals without changing the flavour too much. Try sprinkling protein powder onto a salad, stir-fry or roasted vegetables.

A serving of 1/2 cup, or about 50 g of TVP, provides 24 g of protein (compared to 50 g of ground beef which provides 13.5 g of protein). It also provides 9 g of fiber and 0.5 g of fat, plus more than 40% of your daily iron needs.