With the increase in veganism there are more and more vegan meat alternatives on the market. They’re often referred to by various names; mock meats, fake meats, faux meats, meat analogues and plant proteins. They are foods that mimic the qualities of animal meat products in appearance, texture and even taste. They are usually made up from ingredients such as textured soy protein, wheat gluten and pea protein amongst others. It’s also worth noting that some meat alternatives are labelled ‘meatless’ but may contain animal products or derivatives such as milk, whey, egg and casein. These wouldn’t be suitable for someone following a vegan diet so always check the label and ingredients list.
So, if vegans don’t want to eat meat, then why would they want to eat something that resembles meat? This is a good question and there are a number of reasons. Some vegans choose to eliminate animal-based meats from their diets not because they don’t enjoy the taste, but because of ethical, environmental, or health-related reasons. For others who are new to veganism and transitioning to this new diet, mock meats can help to replace the products that they are already familiar with, making them easy to integrate into their favourite dishes. Some people may simply enjoy the taste of these products, lots of vegan meats actually taste really good! I know plenty of non-vegans too who also enjoy mock meat products.
Another reason is the manner in which food plays an important role in people’s family and social lives. This may be of particular significance in care environments. Food is powerful in the way it brings people together. Having vegan options that replicate a more traditional animal-based dish will allow everyone to participate in the same ritual or celebration without anyone feeling excluded, for example ‘fish’ and chip Friday or a traditional roast dinner. Also, as part of our five fundamentals for Memory Care Pledge when supporting someone who is vegetarian or vegan but has lost capacity, mock meats can play an important part in ensuring their ethical beliefs are respected.
One thing worth noting, although many vegans do enjoy mock meats, some do not, again for various reasons. So always double check with the individual and find out what their personal preference is.
The food industry is now saturated with various mock meat products; burgers, sausages, chicken pieces, mince, bacon pieces, even steaks and pulled pork. Check out your catering supplier to see what products they have, both Brakes and Bidfood have an extensive vegan range.
If your vegetarian and vegan residents do enjoy mock meats there are many convenient, time saving products you could introduce to your menus to increase your veggie options easily.
Why not add veggie sausages to your breakfast menu or serve with mash and gravy for a new dinner option?
Stock up on mock meat burgers when hosting a BBQ
Try using faux mince to create a number of veggie versions of dishes such as chilli, lasagne, Bolognese or Shepherd’s pie.
Use vegan ‘fish’ fillets or make your own with tofu so vegan residents can enjoy ‘fish’ and chips.
Introduce faux chicken or ham slices for some new sandwich fillings.
And if you feel like making things from scratch you could try seitan (a wheat gluten full of protein and not the dark overlord) or try some jackfruit, both are super cheap, versatile and texturally brilliant.
Here’s a great recipe to try making your own Seitan
https://vegetarianforlife.org.uk/recipes/lighter-meals/seitan-wraps
Have a look at our recipe section for some inspiration like these fake steaks
https://vegetarianforlife.org.uk/recipes/main-meals/fake-steaks
and this BBQ Jackfruit
https://vegetarianforlife.org.uk/recipes/main-meals/bbq-jackfruit
And for a few more traditional recipes check out our latest guide veganising classic dishes.
If you’d like any further support with new recipe ideas or planning vegetarian and vegan friendly menus for your home, get in touch with ellie@vegetarianforlife.org.uk.
