The Meat Substitute

Soya is one of the most versatile wonder foods we have as it can mimic the flavours and textures of most of our popular foods. Soya protein that comes in the shape of chunks, granules or flakes are made from processed soya beans. They are called Textured Vegetable Protein or TVP, which is defatted soya flour that has been processed and dried to give a substance with a sponge-like texture which may be flavoured to resemble meat.

As well as being a good source of fibre and high quality protein, it is fortified with vitamin-B12. Soya is a rich source of plant compounds called phytoestrogens. This reduces the risk of breast cancer and prostrate cancer and raise good cholesterol levels. It contains 48% soya protein without any fat. it helps to control blood sugar for diabetics and people who suffer from hypoglycaemia (low blood sugar).

Soya protein is very bland in taste. Extra flavours have to be incorporated to enhance it. Being my comfort food, I have substituted soya chunks to my favourite mutton dish.

Soya Chunks Varuval

What do we need:

2 cups soya chunks
2 medium potatoes
1/2 tsp fennel seeds
1 star anise
1 inch cinnamon stick
1 tbsp ginger & garlic paste
1 onion, sliced
1/2 cup water
2 tbsp meat curry powder
1 tbsp dark soya sauce
1/2 tsp sugar
1/4 tsp turmeric powder
salt

How do we do it:

Soak the soya chunks in hot water for about half an hour, then discard water. Squeeze out the excess water. Then wash them in clean water. Squeeze again. Set aside.

Dice the potatoes. Mix with salt and turmeric powder. Deep fry until golden in colour. Set aside.

Heat oil and fry fennel seeds, star anise and cinnamon stick until aromatic. Add in ginger garlic paste and the sliced onion. Sauté until the rawness gets over. Pour the water, add curry powder, soya sauce and the soya chunks. Let the gravy simmer. Add the fried potatoes cubes and season with salt and sugar. Keep stirring gently until it becomes dry.

Soya Chunks Varuval with Plain Rice, Lemony Spinach and Sambar

Serve Soya Chunks Varuval with hot rice or roti.