Quick Guide to Substituting Meat & Dairy in Recipes

Whether you're exploring plant-based eating or simply ran out of an ingredient, these substitutions can keep your cooking flavorful and satisfying. Here's your cheat sheet:

Meat Substitutions

• Ground Meat: Swap with lentils, crumbled tofu, or textured vegetable protein (TVP). Season well for flavor!
• Chicken: Use jackfruit for shredded textures or chickpeas for a hearty alternative.
• Beef: Replace with mushrooms (portobello or shiitake) for a savory, meaty bite.
• Bacon: Try thinly sliced smoked tempeh or coconut flakes tossed in soy sauce and smoked paprika.
• Fish: Substitute with hearts of palm or marinated tofu for dishes like "fish" tacos.

Dairy Substitutions

• Milk: Use oat, almond, or soy milk. Unsweetened versions work best in savory dishes.
• Butter: Coconut oil or vegan margarine is perfect for baking and frying.
• Cheese: Nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor, or opt for store-bought vegan cheeses.
• Cream: Blend soaked cashews or use coconut cream for rich sauces and soups.
• Yogurt: Swap with plant-based yogurts, like coconut or soy-based varieties.

Pro Tips

• Balance flavors: Add soy sauce, miso, or nutritional yeast to boost umami.
• Adjust textures: Press tofu or freeze and thaw it to mimic meat better.
• Experiment: Don’t hesitate to mix and match—culinary creativity often leads to the best results!

Incorporating these substitutions is easier than ever—just remember to season generously and adapt to your taste! 🌱