Gardein. What is it you ask? Gardein is a plant-based food- a tofu like substitute if you will- that Veggies and those wanting to go more ‘meatless’ cause use as a main protein source in cooking. Visit their site and click on the FAQ at the very bottom of the page, because it really will explain everything…It’s perfect for Vegetarians, Vegans and those who are lactose intolerant…AND if you’re an omnivore or maybe recently turned Veg and you miss the ‘texture’ of meat, this may appeal to you.
With that said, as a vegetarian I am not repulsed by the texture or look of this product. You can get get gardein made up into ready-to-go meals and snacks or simply buy the “pieces” to add to your own dishes…I’ve tried alot of meat-substitutes over the years and Gardein is one I stick with, as is Tofurkey Sausages, but that’s ANOTHER post entirely…another post, another day…
If you’re Canadian and you shop where PC products are sold, their Blue Label sells chicken strips and beef tips made with Gardein. It’s much more economical to buy them this way, but of course if you want more variety, you need to go to exclusive Gardein products.
I’m always slightly skeptical of using processed foods like this for ALL my meals but it’s certainly okay to use in moderation and to supplement the many meals a Vegetarian can enjoy. It just offers up another level of TASTY options and I believe products like this can help turn Meatless Mondays into Meatless Months.
I still love and support Tofu 100%. Just today on my drive home I passed Sunrise Soya on the East Side, and exclaimed to My Guy, “Wow they have their facilities on a WHOLE BLOCK!” and I recounted their many tofu products I absolutely love. I do have a bone to pick with them, and that’s the demise of Pete’s Tofu (or what appears to be a demise, where DID that product go? The original Petes)…I digress though as maybe delving into Pete’s Tofu and the decisions of Sunrise fuel for ANOTHER post…
If you check out Sunrise though, make sure and make a stop here and check out the cookbook: Vancouver Chefs Take on Tofu. It’s about time this food was embraced and treated to the Royal Treatment by a Chef. Tofu is NOT a scary word.
And try Gardein. What have you got to lose? If you don’t like it, send it to me.
30-Something Lacto-Ovo Vegetarian. Kind of BoHo. Tofu Eating. Animal Rights Supporter. Previous Fat Kid. Sarcastic. Red Wine Drinker. In Love w/ My Guy.
