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What Is Textured Vegetable Protein?
Textured vegetable protein (TVP) is a dehydrated meat alternative that adds nutrition as well as texture to your meals. TVP is usually made from soy flour, soy concentrate, or soy protein isolate. TVP comes in small granules, as well as strip, chunk, and nugget shapes.
Textured Vegetable Protein Nutrition
TVP is a highly nutritious option for your plant-based diet. TVP’s nutritional makeup includes 80 calories, 4 grams of fiber, and 12 grams of protein per ¼ cup serving. What’s more? TVP is a complete protein source, meaning that it contains all 9 essential amino acids that your body needs to support good health. TVP is also low in fat, high in fiber, and is often fortified with vitamin B12.
Because TVP is made from soy, it contains phytoestrogens. Phytoestrogens, when consumed regularly, may reduce the risk of breast cancer as well as reduce the risk of bone loss in postmenopausal women. There is also a link between phytoestrogens and cardiovascular health. When coupled with the cholesterol-lowering impact of fiber, TVP is a heart-healthy option.
Buying and Storing TVP
You can buy TVP at any health or bulk food store. TVP is also available at many grocery stores. Storage-wise, TVP keeps for up to one year in your pantry. When hydrated, TVP can keep in your fridge for up to 3 days.
What is TVP Commonly Used For?
Much like tofu, TVP does not have much flavor on its own. This makes it a versatile product to use when cooking.
Ground TVP is often used as a replacement for ground meat. You can find it in plant-based spaghetti sauces, chili, casseroles, and burritos. Fancy a burger? Use ground TVP to make some delicious plant-based burger patties!
TVP chunks are commonly available in “beef” and “chicken” flavors. You can use TVP chunks for your plant-based “beef” stews.TVP chunks also make a great plant-based alternative to chicken nuggets.
TVP chicken-flavored strips are commonly used as plant-based chicken strips. Toss TVP strips in fajitas, stir-frys or Italian-inspired pasta dishes.
Top your salads with a serving of TVP that is flavored to suit your taste buds.
Want some extra protein and vitamin B12 at breakfast? TVP mixes well in your morning porridge as it will take up the flavor of whatever you mix it in with.
This article outlined what TVP is and what it is and how to use it in your plant-based diet. Now that you know more about TVP, try it in your own recipes at home!
How do you use textured vegetable protein in your meals? Let us know in the comments below!
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