Textured vegetable protein

Textured vegetable protein (TVP) is a meat substitute made from defatted soy flour, a by-product of making soybean oil. It is quick to cook, high in protein, and low in fat.

TVP comes as small dry chunks when bought in bulk. It has no flavor of its own and needs to be rehydrated and flavored (both can be accomplished in the same step), then added to cooking.

TVP comes in 2 forms: ground fine and in coarser chunks. This makes it a more versatile substance, allowing it to take on the texture of whatever meat it is substituting for. Using TVP, one can make vegetarian or vegan versions of popular dishes like chili, sloppy joes, tacos, burgers, et cetera.

TVP can be found in natural food stores and larger supermarkets, usually in the bulk section.

See also

• vegetarian/vegan
• mock-meat
• meat substitute
• soy
• natural food