Meat, Dairy and Egg Substitutes Reviewed

As vegetarianism continues to make its way intoFor egg substitutes in baked goods, many health
the mainstream, many companies are enteringfood stores sell powdered Ener-G Egg Replacer
the meat, dairy and egg substitutes markets tothat can be mixed with warm water to use in
satisfy the growing demand for animal productplace of eggs in baked goods. If Ener-G Egg
alternatives. Read these reviews of the bestReplacer is not available, 1 tablespoon cornstarch
substitutes out there that will make the transitionplus 3 tablespoons water can be used as a
to vegetarianism as painless as possible.substitute for one egg in baked goods.
For plain meat-free burgers, vegetarians mayFor a scrambled egg alternative or an egg salad
choose Boca's Original meatless burgers oralternative, tofu is a great option. For scrambled
Morningstar Farms' Grillers veggie burgers. Fortofu, break up a block of tofu and add turmeric,
veggie burgers with more flavor, Boca andsalt and pepper to taste, along with sauteed
Morningstar Farms offer flavored varieties suchveggies like onions, garlic and sundried tomatoes.
as Boca's Grilled Vegetable, Roasted Garlic andFor a tofu mock egg salad, mix a broken up block
Roasted Onion burgers or Morningstar Farms'of tofu with 1/3 cup Vegenaise (a mayonaise
Mushroom Lover's, Philly Cheese Steak and Spicysubstitute also made by Follow Your Heart brand)
Black Bean veggie burgers.and 1 tablespoon of mustard. Add to this celery,
Boca and Morningstar Farms also sell other meatgreen onions, thyme and salt and pepper to taste.
alternatives. Boca's other products includeFor those who forego dairy, there are many
meatless ground burger, pizza and Chik'n Nuggets.alternatives to cow's milk. Silk sells an organic
Morningstar Farms also carries meatless cornsoymilk that can be drank alone or put in cereal
dogs, Veggie Breakfast Bacon Strips andor "Silkshakes". Silk also sells a delicious chocolate
meatless buffalo wings.soymilk beverage. For a creamier chocolate soy
Several companies offer cheese alternatives. Notemilk, though, you may opt for the 8th Continent
to vegans: many cheese products advertised asbrand soy milk.
"soy cheese" or "lactose-free" often contain anFor those who do not enjoy the taste of soy
ingredient called casein, which is derived from milkmilk, most grocery stores sell rice milk, which is a
but is not lactose. Those who wish to avoid dairylighter beverage than soy milk, or almond milk,
products of all kinds should be sure to readwhich has a pleasant, nutty taste.
ingredient labels and be aware of casein.Finally, vegans and those who avoid dairy can
For truly dairy-free grated parmesan cheese,enjoy dairy-free ice cream that tastes just like
Vegan brand is a good option. Vegan brand alsothe real thing. The most accessible non-dairy ice
offers cheese slices in mozzarella and Americancreams are Tofutti brand and Soy Delicious brand.
flavors. These slices are great when used cold inSome grocery stores also supply rice ice cream.
sandwiches. Vegan cheese, however, is typicallyBeing vegetarian or vegan is a lot easier today
not great for melting.because of these meat, dairy and egg
But there is one dairy-free cheese brand thatalternatives. Luckily, most of the above
melts extremely well and is delicious: Follow Yourmentioned brands are available in most grocery
Heart brand cheese. This cheese comes instores. If you cannot find a product that you
mozzarella, cheddar, nacho and monterey jackwant, though, be sure to talk to grocery store
varieties. It can be used in anything from pizza tomanagers, who in most cases will be happy to
cheese fries to tacos and quesadillas.order products for customers.