Not all plant-based meals need to revolve around salads or lentils. If you’re exploring meat alternatives for vegans, you’ll be happy to know there are plenty of tasty, satisfying options that go well with Indian flavours. Whether you’re cooking a familiar dish or just craving something hearty, there are a few ingredients that bring great texture and soak up spice beautifully — all without using meat.
Seitan
Often called “wheat meat,” seitan has a texture that’s remarkably close to chicken or beef. It’s made from wheat gluten and becomes dense and chewy once cooked. The best part? It takes on any flavour you give it, which makes it perfect for masalas, kebabs, or even butter-style curry sauces. A little goes a long way.
Young Jackfruit
This tropical fruit is often used as a plant-based swap in Asian and Indian-style recipes. Young jackfruit (the kind that’s not fully ripe yet) doesn’t have much flavour on its own, but once boiled and sautéed, it takes on the taste of whatever you add. It shreds beautifully, so it’s great for pulled-style dishes or stuffed wraps.
Mushrooms
Mushrooms like cremini, portobello, or button are brilliant for creating that “meaty” bite. You can chop and sauté them for curry bases or even marinate and grill thick portobello slices for something heartier. They’re rich, earthy, and surprisingly filling — and they work really well with Indian spices like cumin, garam masala, and turmeric.
Textured Vegetable Protein (TVP)
TVP is made from soy and usually comes in dry granules or chunks. Once rehydrated, it looks and feels similar to ground meat. It’s affordable, easy to season, and great for things like keema-style curries, meatballs, or spicy vegan cutlets.
Final Thoughts
There’s no one right way to eat plant-based — but it’s always more fun when the food is full of flavour and texture. These swaps aren’t just practical; they’re delicious, versatile, and perfect for experimenting with your favourite Indian recipes.
You can also check our vegan selection here.