Created as a byproduct of soybean oil, textured vegetable protein is most often used for cooking and an added ingredient in many processed foods. To make textured vegetable protein, soybean oil must first be created. Creating soybean oil includes using a high-pressure press or a chemical such as hexane (or a combination of both) to heat the soybeans and separate the oil. Once the oil has been properly separated, you're left with flour or paste that contains a high amount of protein.
The soy flour is then used by manufacturers and forced through a machine nozzle while it's hot to create various shapes like chicken nuggets, strips, chunks and flakes. Once cooled off, the dehydrated textured vegetable keeps its shape and forms into a tough and fibrous product. To use TVP in recipes, it must first be rehydrated with liquid before cooking.
The many uses of textured vegetable protein are endless. An ingredient commonly used as a vegan meat alternative, TVP can be used to create everything from vegan lasagna to meat-free chili. When left unflavored, textured vegetable protein can be pretty bland. While some may view this as a fault, we believe it's one of the greatest benefits. Porous in nature, textured vegetable protein quickly absorbs the flavors of the liquid it's rehydrated in, making it easy to flavor it however you'd like. TVP can be used as a meat replacement in stews, meatloaf, soups, sauces and even to create vegan chicken nuggets. It is also used as a protein additive and worked into salads, cereals, stuffing, health bars and more!
Not sure if textured vegetable protein will work well in your dinner recipes? As a general rule of thumb, TVP can be added almost anywhere ground beef is typically usedchili, burgers, lasagna, hand pies, etc. There really are endless possibilities when it comes to trying out new textured vegetable protein recipes.
While textured vegetable protein may have started as a mystery ingredient, we hope this article has helped you discover the many ways you can use it to take your plant-based menu to the next level. A source of complete protein and an excellent way to recreate the meaty texture of traditional comfort foods, TVP is a vegetarian pantry staple that you don't want to miss out on. From everyone at Bob's Red Mill, have a healthy and happy day!
