Power Play

Anything meat can do, plants can do better.

This is the rallying cry behind Plant-Powered Protein, the latest and greatest release from the prolific, esteemed cookbook author, Nava Atlas. Today’s innovative alternative proteins prove that you don’t have to sacrifice flavor, texture, or nutrition to enjoy a fully plant-based diet. It seems as though there’s a new option appearing on the market every day; the paradox of choice can be paralyzing, whether you’ve been vegan since the era of TVP, or are just testing the waters now.

Not all proteins are created equal. Where does one start with such a diverse palate of new ingredients? Aside from picking out the best brands, what can you actually make with these mystery meats once you get them into the kitchen? Never fear, Nava is here. In Plant-Powered Protein, she’ll guide you through familiar family favorites, from nostalgic classics to bold global fare, with dishes that are kinder to the earth and animals, not to mention much better for you.

It’s both with personal bias and my honest opinion that I share this book as a top recommendation, since I’ve had the pleasure of working with Ms. Atlas regularly for over a decade now, including this fresh trove of recipes. I couldn’t be more proud to have my photos lend the visual voice to such a compelling collection. Just imagine: Having created all of the meals pictured within, finding not a single failure, and experiencing the instant gratification of such easy instruction first hand. More than a mere armchair reviewer, my endorsement comes from a truly genuine place.

Wrapped up in these glossy pages, complete with recipes for making your own alternatives and suggestions for incorporating them into simple, everyday meals, you’ll get over 125 recipes that would thrill even the consummate carnivore. Bridging the divide between the conventional comfort food and a whole food plant-based approach, there’s something in here for everyone.

How can one possibly pick a handful of favorites from over a hundred tried-and-true winners? Truth be told, I can only go by my favorite photos at this point, since the flavors are all on point, instructions are easy to understand, and standard preparations couldn’t be quicker. All you need to do is figure out what you’re in the mood for. Breakfast for dinner? It’s hard to beat those biscuits with sausage gravy, or a spicy chorizo scramble. In need of a warming stew on a cold day? Set a pot of New England clamless chowder on the stove to simmer, and ease into a big bowlful of comfort.

You’ve also got plenty of lighter options like spinach salad with apples and bacon, or a clean, crisp deconstructed sushi salad that’s also great for a grab-and-go lunch. Flavors span the globe with inspirations that range from Korean, Mongolian, Thai, Mexican, and more. For the adventurous eater, you’ve got a ticket to any delicious destination in these pages.

For special occasions, look no further than the carne asada fries, an indulgent entree that you can totally justify as a balanced meal. You’ve got your starch, plenty of vegetables, healthy fats from avocado, and of course plenty of protein. What more can you ask for? The same can be said of the classic meaty pizza, dotted with spicy meatless pepperoni that puts the conventional rendition to greasy shame. It’s natural to make comparisons, but these recipes are simply unrivaled in flavor AND nutrition.

All that said, don’t just take my word for it. Get into the kitchen and taste these creations for yourself. Everyone should be so fortunate as to enjoy such a comprehensive, compelling guide through the world of meatless options. To that end, I’m thrilled to GIVE AWAY THREE COPIES of Plant-Powered Protein. Yes, three lucky winners will be able to cook up a storm, enjoying Nava Atlas’ delicious wisdom as I have for so many years now.

To enter, leave me a comment below about your favorite meatless entree. Do you use a homemade protein, or do you have a favorite store-bought brand? There are no wrong answers as long as you keep cooking! Don’t forget to come back and fill out the entry form to log your submission, and unlock a number of additional methods to rack up extra entries.

Let’s make 2021 the year that “Where do you get your protein?” becomes a question only suitable for omnivores. Plant-powered is the way to be!

Plant-Powered Protein: 125 Recipes for Using Today’s Amazing Meat Alternatives by Nava Atlas

18 thoughts on “Power Play

  1. A big savory breakfast (tofu scramble, potatoes, tomatoes, etc.) with either homemade tempeh sausage or the Field Roast breakfast sausage patties.

  2. I make a vegan “Mushroom Duxelles” with mirepoix using “Gardein Meatless Chick’n Strips” for my protein. The original recipe called for vegan Puff Pastry but I most often use filo dough to encase the Duxelles. It is beautiful, crispy and delicious.

    1. I’m a big fan of lentil sloppy joes. Whenever I go home I have to come up with something plant based that cuts it for my omniverous family members and they’re pretty difficult to feed. Lentil sloppy joes are the one thing I’ve ever made that was so well received I got an encore request before my next visit! Super easy, loaded with protein and not loaded with any imitation products.

  3. This time of year, my favorite meal is a big pot of soup and homemade bread. (All my meals are meatless, I am vegan.) The protein usually comes from beans, sometimes some vegan sausage.

  4. When I became vegetarian it was all about lentils and tofu, those were the main protein sources. Then TVP, which I never properly learned how to cook. Nowadays I have no trouble finding any alternative my heart desires. Though me and wheat gluten don’t get along very well, so I’m starting to explore ways to make my own protein alternatives.

  5. I realized I didn’t mention my favorite in the comment above. I’d say anything by field roast is my favorite. Biscuits and gravy, with field roast, rocked my world.

  6. I’ve delved into vegan and looking more into plant based foods so I would be so excited to try some new recipes. Love bittersweet__ !! The photos are delightfully delicious! I love spaghetti and meatballs made with tempeh.

  7. I have one of this author’s early cookbooks and it’s pretty great. This one looks awesome. I love vegan chili. So good during the winter months.

  8. My favorite are oat burgers. I make all different kinds, but my favorite is the simplest. Second favorite are vegan meatballs.

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