Is Impossible Meat Plant Based?

A lot of people following a plant-based diet look for meat alternatives to get their daily protein requirements. These products are often easier to find as compared to natural plant-based protein sources. Impossible Meat is a ground beef substitute that tastes and bleeds like beef and has become one of the most popular meat alternatives. However, does it really fit a plant-based diet?

So, is Impossible meat plant based? No, Impossible Meat is not plant based. Though the main ingredients of the product are plant-based oils, it contains several fillers and binders to achieve a meaty texture. It also uses a combination of heating, pressurizing, cooling and other processes to create the meat substitute.

In this article, let us try to find out whether there is a plant-based alternative for Impossible meat. 

Top 3 Impossible Meat Substitutes For A Plant Based Diet

Impossible meat is a meat substitute that contains plant-based ingredients. However, it does not focus on consuming the plant-based ingredients in their natural form. This means it is inappropriate for a plant-based diet. There are some products like tofu that you can use as Impossible meat substitutes on a wholesome diet. 

Tofu

The go-to ingredient for plant-based protein, tofu is a perfect meat substitute for those who avoid animal products. Tofu is generally made from soybeans. It is available in a variety of textures like ‘firm’, ‘silken’ and ‘extra-firm’. It is a high protein, gluten-free meat substitute that provides iron, calcium and other essential nutrients when added to the daily diet. 

Tofu has a neutral taste profile and absorbs the flavors of whatever you cook it with. You can use a firm tofu variety as a meat substitute as it has the right texture to mimic fish and chicken. You can bake, fry, boil or crumble it as you would do with meat to make your favorite recipe on a plant-based diet. 

Tempeh

A great alternative to Impossible meat, tempeh is another plant-based source of essential nutrients, fiber and protein. It is known for its firm meat-like texture and nutty flavor. It is traditionally made by fermenting soybean. It is the fermentation process that enhances its texture and gives a sensational umami flavor that plant-based diet followers would like to enjoy.

You can find tempeh in most stores available in a variety of flavors. You can even buy it plain and cook with your choice of herbs and ingredients. It is often cut into slices, strips and cubes and even grated to suit different recipes. It can be used in any recipe as a meat replacement and can be fried, sauteed, steamed or baked. 

Seitan

Another substitute for Impossible meat is seitan that is obtained from whole wheat. It uses the protein component of wheat and has a meaty texture it is famous for. It is low in fat and high in protein content. It has a look and texture quite similar to cooked meat. 

Seitan comes in several formats and textures like cubes, slices, grounds, cutlets and loaves. You can cook it plain or add flavorings as you would do with meat. It can be fried, baked, pressure cooked, grilled or sauteed. You can also find pre-seasoned varieties of this food. However, it is important to look at the ingredients to make sure the product fits your plant-based diet.