PRODUCT ZONE
FOOD
SUBSTITUTES:
There are a greater number of meat substitutes on the market than ever before. We asked three chefs to tell us about their preferred vegan and plant-based options and how they are keeping their clients satisfied.
signs of slowing down. It is more than a trend — it is a lifestyle choice that’s mainly based on health. More research is showing the good sides of being vegan. It's been almost a year since I added vegan dishes on my menu.
How does cooking with meat substitutes differ from cooking with real meat?
YOUSSEF AKIKI Managing partner of Kitchen Backstage & Executive Chef - brût restaurant Kitchen Backstage. brutlb.com
How are you keeping up with consumer demand for plant-based meat substitutes? Interest in veganism and plant-based foods is on the rise and showing no
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HOSPITALITY NEWS ME | APR - MAY 2021
Meat substitutes are designed to imitate real meat in terms of taste and texture. Burgers and patties based on grains are high in carbohydrates and thus may be used as a substitute for both meat and side dishes like rice or pasta in a traditional meal. One major characteristic of highmoisture meat substitutes is their fibrous structure, which gives the products a meat-like appearance. By variation of
the process conditions, it is possible to generate products with the appearance of whole muscle meat that resembles chicken or beef, for example.
What are the main meat substitutes and which do you normally use in your kitchen? Jackfruit, seitan, tofu or tempeh-based meat are common substitutes. However, I tend to use more natural, non-modified ingredients based on vegetables, such as eggplant, Portobello mushroom or grains like beans, soybeans and lentils.
Which meat and meat substitute brands do you recommend? U.S. Prime Meat is a great brand. I do not use meat substitute brands, but I know that Beyond Meat has a wide selection of products.
