4 protein products that will replace meat in your daily diet

Vegetable substitutes for eggs, beef, chicken and pork are a useful addition to your diet.

These plant-based proteins absorb the flavor of whatever you're cooking, making them extremely versatile.

Mushrooms

Protein: champignons, porcini mushrooms and portobello are easy to find in the markets.

When to use: fried for sandwiches and salads, stuffed with cheese, stewed for pasta.

Tips from professionals: instead of rinsing, wipe with a damp paper towel; cook on low heat.

Tempe

Protein: boiled and fermented soybeans in the form of a cake.

When to use: Slice to replace bacon or crumble as ground beef (for tacos).

Tips from the pros: cut into thin strips, then marinate before cooking.

Seitan

Protein: vegan protein from wheat gluten and water.

When to use: marinate and bake in slices, bread and fry in straws or grill on skewers.

Pro tip: Watch out for high sodium in packaged versions or make your own.

Tofu

Protein: soy milk pressed into white blocks has a mild, neutral taste.

When to use: instead of eggs in breakfast dough; in hot or smoothie.

Pro tips: First squeeze out the water with paper towels, then marinate the tofu according to the recipe.