The Top Vegan Meat Brand names for Cooking Come July 1st

Plant-Based Protein for Game Night Cooking

Vegan meat alternatives have moved from specialty shelves into nearly every major grocery store, and they fit well into the kind of easy, crowd-friendly cooking that goes with a night of basketball. Whether you are hosting friends for a Dallas-area watch party or packing food before heading out to a game, plant-based burgers, sausages, crumbles and chicken-style pieces can stand in for the usual meats without much change to your recipes.

What to look for on the label

• Protein source: Most products are built on soy, pea protein or wheat gluten (seitan). Pea-based options suit people avoiding soy, while seitan is not suitable for anyone avoiding gluten.
• Sodium and fat: Many meat alternatives are seasoned heavily and use coconut or other oils for juiciness. Compare the nutrition panels if you eat them often.
• Format: Ground-style crumbles are the most versatile for tacos, chili and pasta sauce. Patties work best on a hot grill or griddle, and sausages are easy wins for a tailgate.

Cooking tips that make a difference

Plant-based patties and crumbles usually cook faster than beef and can dry out if left on the heat too long, so follow the package directions and watch for a good sear rather than a long cook. A little extra seasoning, such as smoked paprika, cumin or a Tex-Mex spice blend, goes a long way. For a big group, a slow cooker of vegan chili or a tray of plant-based nachos keeps everyone fed through four quarters with little effort.

Planning around the season

Summer cookouts and the busy stretch of the basketball calendar often overlap, so it helps to plan meals around tip-off times. Check the schedule before you shop, and if you are eating out near a game, our venues pages can help you think about where you will be and how much time you have. More practical ideas for game nights are collected in our guides.

If you have allergies or specific dietary needs, read ingredient lists carefully and consider asking a registered dietitian for advice on balancing plant-based products in your diet.