Faux Sausage

on July 21, 2010
in All Posts

Not this kind of faux sausage:

IMG_2640

This kind of faux sausage:

IMG_8950

I’m not sure why, but I felt compelled to pick up this vegetarian sausage at the store the other night.  I was never really into sausage when I ate meat.  I do like the Morningstar sausages and was hoping this brand would be similar in yumminess.

 

Here’s the nutritionals:

Untitled

I ended up cooking a “breakfast for lunch” meal.  Sometimes breakfast is just what you need (again).

 

My plate:

IMG_8953

The sausages where pretty good.  Pro’s: could be shaped into a variety of meat-like foods (like in spaghetti!), the texture was spot-on.  Con’s:  Not as good as Morningstar, took forever and a day to cook on the griddle.

IMG_8955

With egg and toast, of course!

IMG_8959

And a pile of roasted veg:  sweet potato, broccoli, red pepper, and onion.

IMG_8961

Guess I’m feeling extra-veggie-ish today?  I also had a Green Monster as a snack.  This GM just contained 2 cups raw spinach, rice milk, and Vega Shake & Go mix.  Kind of weird to skip the banana, but it was still good (we’re out).

IMG_8947

I’ve gotten a lot done today, but I must run to do some stuff at the practice, including hanging up the Husband’s diplomas.  I’m also going to squeeze in an acupuncture treatment to assist my body in adjusting to no birth control pills.  My body is kind of freaking out (feels like the worse hangover ever), and although I was assured on Twitter that it wasn’t common and would go away, I still think a little needling would help move things along.

 

Do you eat faux meat products?  If you’re vegetarian or vegan, are you OK with the kind that really look like grilled chicken strips?  Or do you avoid stuff like that all together?  I do try to eat it in moderation, but faux meat is great in a cooking pinch.

 

PS – Jill is doing an Operation Beautiful giveaway:  Check it out here!

{ 132 comments }

 

  • Gavi @ GaviGetsGoing! July 21, 2010, 2:46 pm

    I like faux meat, but I really prefer veggie burgers and veggie products that don’t try to simulate the taste of meat. I really like GardenBurger and Dr. Praeger’s brands for that reason–the veggie burgers taste like vegetables! I do like the GimmeLean products, though, particularly their soy crumbles.

  • Corinne (breathe and savor) July 21, 2010, 2:46 pm

    oh gosh! it makes me feel rather unsettled to know that our bodies are that addicted (for lack of a better word) to birth control! ljasdklfasdjf blech. how long will that go on for!? good luck!

    • Caitlin July 21, 2010, 2:48 pm

      I hear this is NOT a common reaction and I struggled with BC while I was on it too! I just want to emphasize that.

      • Corinne (breathe and savor) July 21, 2010, 2:49 pm

        well that is good…still awful YOU have to go through it. I hope your hubby’s treatment helps!

      • Ashley July 21, 2010, 3:37 pm

        When I went off birth control, I felt suuuper tired for an entire month. It did start to go away in the second month though so there’s a light at the end of the tunnel. I believe Gina at Fitnessista mentioned she had the same reaction.

      • Tanya July 21, 2010, 7:54 pm

        I can tell you it is more common than you realize. There are tons of message boards devoted to post pill side effects. I’ve been off of the pill for 7 weeks now and am still battling all sorts of strange reactions. I started seeing a naturopath at a very well respected center for integrative medicine here in LA and she advises that this is very common. According to her, very important to exercise, eat whole foods and supplement supplement supplement. Apparently the pill depletes our vitamin absorption and reserves so it’s necessary to overdo it for a while to get levels back up. There are a number of supplements that support hormonal balance that I am happy to share if you’re interested. Feel free to email me privately if you want. Anyway…feel better. I hope your “rebalancing” is quick and uneventful!

        • caitlin July 21, 2010, 9:24 pm

          can you email me what supplements your naturopath recommended? seebriderun at gmail

  • Freya @ Brit Chick Runs July 21, 2010, 2:46 pm

    I eat faux stuff occasionally, but I try and limit it just cos they’r often so processed – but once in a while it’s good to have something quick and easy 🙂

  • Charlene D. July 21, 2010, 2:48 pm

    I eat faux meat products mainly out of convenience! My commute is about 3.5-4 hours each weekday so I usually don’t get home from work until late so as you say, they are great in a pinch! I love Morningstar sausage patties too as well as Quorn chicken nuggets. I tried the Quorn “grilled chicken” but the grill marks on it freak me out for some reason!

    I’m also a big fan of the citrus spareribs and gong bao chicken at May Wah grocery store in NYC (http://www.vegieworld.com/). My husband didn’t know for months that they weren’t real meat!

  • Vicky @ eat live sweat July 21, 2010, 2:49 pm

    I avoid faux meat all together… being a vegetarian I am turned off to meat in general. I do like veggie burgers, but they aren’t pretending to be meat. On another note… I went off b.c about 5 months ago and my body is still adjusting but I do feel mentally better (the cramps are killer) and I know I am treating my body better!

  • Janna (Janna's Keeping it Real) July 21, 2010, 2:49 pm

    I like garden burger sundried tomato veggie burgers, but that is it! i get creeped out by products that have meat texture…and taste…ewww

  • Sarah for Real July 21, 2010, 2:52 pm

    I avoid faux products altogether, hence the name of my blog! I do enjoy a bean burger patty occasionally though.

    I hope you feel better soon. You think your body wanted the soy product for the extra estrogen???

  • Christina July 21, 2010, 2:55 pm

    I had headaches for a few days after stopping BC. It only reaffirmed my decision to get off them 🙂

  • Jessica July 21, 2010, 2:58 pm

    I only eat faux meat to add variety to my meals. I only eat it 2-3 times per week. Right now I am only eating veggie burgers and faux turkey slices. I was eating that same faux sausage for a while… I guess I stopeed because it does take longer to make for breakfast than oatmeal, etc. But I really liked them! My husband said they tasted exactly like sausage!

    Hope you feel better soon!

  • Caitlin in MD July 21, 2010, 2:59 pm

    I went off BC last fall after being on it almost 10 years, and had some issues, physically, as well. Hangover is a good way to describe it. Headachey, nausea, tired, etc. Also a little moody/depressed. Only lasted a week or two, though. Then I ended up pregnant 2 months later, which brought on an entirely new set of physical issues 😉

  • Angela @ Making Food for Friends July 21, 2010, 2:59 pm

    I like making a quick pasta dinner with the Gimme Lean sausage–I’ll usually crumble half a tube in a pan, brown it up, add sliced zucchini, broccoli, and mushrooms (or whatever is in the house!), then put it all over pasta with some marinara for a quick & relatively healthy dinner!

  • Amanda July 21, 2010, 3:03 pm

    My body went crazy after going off of the pill. It took some time but it was worth it in the long run.

  • Michelle @ Give Me the Almond Butter July 21, 2010, 3:03 pm

    Lol love the faux sausage with your pretty pooch! 😉

    Keep us updating on how your body is feeling going off birth control. So far I’m feeling pretty good, but I have only stopped taking pills for two days.

  • Heather (Heather's Dish) July 21, 2010, 3:03 pm

    i definitely don’t eat faux meat…but then again, i’m not a vegetarian. i just enjoy the real deal in moderation and love it 🙂

  • brandi July 21, 2010, 3:04 pm

    I just got my OB eblast about the book + Today Show!!! So exciting 🙂 I have it written on my calendar so I can tune in that day with my coffee!

    I’ve seen that sausage before and have had it IN my hands, but I always put it back. Same with the Morningstar sausage. I don’t know why, but I’m terrified of it! Very strange, considering I eat veggie burgers. Maybe I should give it a chance. You really like the Morningstar ones? I would like having them ready to just quickly heat + eat in the morning.

  • Allie (Live Laugh Eat) July 21, 2010, 3:04 pm

    I’ve been eating that sausage the last couple of days and I really like it. It only takes a couple minutes for me to cook–not sure why your sausage is taking so long. I mixed in thawed frozen spinach and goat cheese to make meatballs and patties–try it!

  • Julie @ Pickley Pear July 21, 2010, 3:06 pm

    I’m all about the meat. Real meat. But, I enjoy Morningstar Veggie Patties and Breaded ‘chicken’. A healthy alternative.

  • Nicole, RD July 21, 2010, 3:06 pm

    Interesting “side effect” of going on BCP. I’ve been wanting to do the same, but we’re just not prepared for children right now. I really struggle with taking hormones everyday and pretty much hate it, but it’s the responsible thing to do, I guess!

    I love the Morning Star products. They’re so quick, easy, and delicious! But I love the real thing, too 😉

  • Heather @ Side of Sneakers July 21, 2010, 3:06 pm

    The less “real” looking it is, the better. Part of the reason I don’t eat meat is because I don’t like it, so I’m not exactly looking for substitutes. However, faux meats are definitely handy when it comes to convenience. Just like everything, moderation is key- I try to make sure they’re made of different things (such as not all soy, etc).

  • Christie July 21, 2010, 3:08 pm

    I’m not vegeterian but I like faux meat products (usually). There are certain ones I’ve tried and hated but there are some that I really like. The Morningstar stuff is good except the faux Italian sausage and the faux bacon – yuck! I love the Tofurkey sun dried tomato sausage though.

    When I went of BC, I had some nausea but it was pretty limited. The worst part for me though was the acne! I started back on it later but now I’m off again.

  • Megan @ Healthy Hoggin July 21, 2010, 3:08 pm

    When I was starting off as a vegetarian, I relied on faux meat products a lot! I actually PREFERRED them over the real stuff! I think faux meat is great for transitiong.

    I eventually started to worry about how much soy I was consuming, especially the processed varieties, and how it can affect thyroid function. So now, I pretty much avoid soy as much as possible, and enjoy more lentil-based substitutes and tons of veggies and whole grains! I don’t even miss soy milk now that I’ve discovered almond milk! It’s so much better!!

  • Megan July 21, 2010, 3:08 pm

    I see faux meat products as a useful “crutch.” I don’t eat them in every meal by far, but they help pump up certain dishes and give a better satisfaction– especially in meat dishes you are trying to recreate and may have memories attached to. Some are better than others though, so it’s always an experiement! The only ones that freak me out a bit are the ones that look like BBQ wings 😛

  • Ashley July 21, 2010, 3:09 pm

    Faux meat still has the same texture and that’s one of the reasons I am a vegetarian so I don’t ever eat it. I’d be willing to give it another chance if there were a product that everyone raved about. Any suggestions?

    • caitlin July 21, 2010, 9:27 pm

      I really cant recommend any besides the Morningstar sausages… I like those 🙂

  • Amanda @ Vegacious July 21, 2010, 3:10 pm

    I am mostly vegan and I really try to stick to foods that are completely real (AKA: I make them). Though they may take time, real foods are so much better. However, occasionally I think it is okay to use faux products. I really try to limit soy products, especially.

  • Laine @ Beets, Butter & Moutaintops July 21, 2010, 3:11 pm

    I like the Boca spicy Chik’n patties but I don’t eat them often. And I’ve started eating Gardenburgers again, too.

    A really yummy faux meat is the Chickpea And Gluten Patty from Veganomicon. It’s very fun to make and healthy and versatile. It’s awesome with the mushroom gravy, and since you make it yourself you know what’s in it!

  • Kelly July 21, 2010, 3:12 pm

    Sorry your having so many problems with going off the bc. I hope your body evens out soon. I don’t think I’ve ever tried faux meat products, but I’m not opposed.

  • Michele July 21, 2010, 3:12 pm

    I’m glad you raised the question about the faux meat products today. In light of the recent news that the FDA is reducing the recommended sodium levels to 1500mg per day from 2300mg per day, I’ve been increasingly aware of sodium levels. Nearly all of the meat substitutes are full of sodium. I like them… I could eat the Morningstar Farms maple sausage three times per day, but striving for 1500mg of sodium is not easy.

    It surprises me that so few (if any) of the food bloggers express concern over sodium levels. I’m interested in whether others have actually counted sodium milligrams at all just to be aware. It’s really hard to stay at 1500mg.

    • Sarah for Real July 21, 2010, 3:16 pm

      Interesting comment. I’d heard some of the recent government recommendation on sodium as well. I think most people get way to much sodium from eating fast food and processed foods, like you say the faux meat products are full of salt. I personally love salt, I crave it often and I think that could be because I have super low blood pressure.

      Not to be cheesy, but I think you should always take government recommendations with a grain of salt 😉

      • Michele July 21, 2010, 3:26 pm

        I do agree about the government and a grain of salt — pardon the pun in this discussion. However, I do think this one is relatively legitimate. Maybe the dietitians reading the comments can chime in, but somewhere around 2300 to 2400 is generally considered safe even though we only NEED about 500mg for the body to function. Many years ago, I worked as a nurse, and we often provided lower sodium diets to many patients/residents at 2000mg per day.

        Salt is so present in everything. It adds up so quickly when we use any salad dressings. I’ve been hesitant to use the Annie’s products due to what seem like excessive sodium content to me.

        I guess it all comes back to eliminating as many processed foods as possible.

    • Anya @ Fitness & Sunshine July 21, 2010, 3:46 pm

      I try to eawt as healthy as possible but my personal reason for not worrying about salt levels is that it’d make me a little too obsessive. 😉 I used to deprive myself of many foods and count fat grams, etc. and I think that for people like myself counting sodium may be going just a little too far. I would surely drive me insane!

      That being said though, for people who need to watch their sodium or who are overly concerned (and not worried about their own sanity in the process 🙂 ) about their levels, I suppose counting could work.

    • caitlin July 21, 2010, 9:29 pm

      Well, I do care about sodium levels but I don’t have to pay TOO much attention because when you mostly eat whole, natural foods (not packaged), you rarely hit sodium levels. I’ve counted and I’m always way under.

  • megan July 21, 2010, 3:12 pm

    I don’t ever eat faux meat, but I do eat the real thing. I love sausage, but never really got into bacon. For most people it seems to be the opposite.

  • Karen @ Not Just Celery July 21, 2010, 3:15 pm

    Your egg is so pretty 🙂

    I am not a vegetarian, but I do eat meat subsitutes a few times a week. I LOVE all the Quorn products. I would say I eat meat a lot less than I used to, but I still like a good steak, hamburger, or hot dog every once in awhile!

  • Evan Thomas July 21, 2010, 3:17 pm

    I used to LOVE that exact sausage before I found out I couldn’t eat gluten. It had such a subtly spiced flavor. Try it with caramelized onion and american cheese and it’s the best veggie Philly Cheese steak I’ve had

  • Amelia July 21, 2010, 3:19 pm

    I really don’t eat any faux meats, although I am not opposed to them. They just give me a really bad stomach ache & bloating. Not fun.

    Long story short, I was on the pill for 4 years and Nuvaring for another 2 after that. It has now been two years since going off BC and I just had my first period last month. Back in January my doc told me that I was running way too much and that she attributed my diet and exercise to lack of a cycle. I had my very first period in 2 years last month. If it didn’t come soon, I was ready to head for acupuncture.

  • Therese July 21, 2010, 3:21 pm

    I used to eat faux meat a LOT but lately I’ve been limiting it. I find a lot of faux meat contains a lot of sodium and although I’m not a sodium fanatic, it’s necessary to have sodium as a runner, I’d rather have the control of the amount rather than have it in my food.

    However, faux meat has come a long way and do enjoy it in meals. I just use it sort of like you would with regular meat, I limit it to 2-3x a week, if that.

  • Kelly July 21, 2010, 3:23 pm

    I am not a vegetarian (but do not eat much meat) and I don’t eat faux meat. I prefer substituting things like beans, eggs and nut butters to get my fill of protein! 🙂

  • Anya @ Fitness & Sunshine July 21, 2010, 3:24 pm

    Faux meat is not my thing 😡 something about it just seems very off to me and a lot of these products are very processed.

  • Gabriela @ Une Vie Saine July 21, 2010, 3:26 pm

    When I switched to being a vegetarian, I loved faux meats, but the longer I go without the real thing, the less they appeal to me! I do love veggie burgers though! Hope the accupuncture helps.

  • Shelly @ EpicOrganic.net July 21, 2010, 3:27 pm

    I eat faux meats a couple times per month, usually in the form of a veggie burger at otherwise vegetarian-unfriendly restaurants. I tried a lot of different faux meats when I first went veggie, particularly for lunch meat, but really didn’t like them. Now, my faux meat consumption is pretty much limited to veggie burgers and the faux ground beef that I keep in the freezer for spaghetti nights (though I have been known to splurge on the occasional faux buffalo chicken nugget).

  • KMattrn July 21, 2010, 3:29 pm

    I like a variety of MorningStar prods. The Chick patties and nuggets are both good, but the trick is to micro bake them. I put them in the microwave for about a minute and then toast them in the toaster oven on high. I also like their BBQ ribs, black bean patties and veggie patties (one of those not trying to tastelike a burger). The veggie patties are good seasoned with garlic and onion powders and the black bean patties get chili powder, cumin and garlic and go into a whole grain tortilla with guac. DELISH!

    They are convenient for a quick lunch, but we don’t eat them every day either.

  • JenRD July 21, 2010, 3:29 pm

    I am sorry you are feeling the withdrawal from the hormones. Some of the symptoms could be alleviated by drinking tons of fluids, and taking in extra potassium from fruits and veggies (maybe that’s why you’re craving the veggies?). Coconut water is also a great source of potassium and calcium, which can help with bloat as well.

    • caitlin July 21, 2010, 9:30 pm

      Thanks for the recommendations!

  • Lee July 21, 2010, 3:31 pm

    I eat faux meat. Not all the time, but we generally have some sort in the freezer for quick meals.

  • Jill@MySoCalledHealthLife July 21, 2010, 3:32 pm

    Wow thank you SO much for the shout out!!

    As for me, I used to eat a TON of faux meat products, but now besides veggie burgers I kind of steer clear. Some of them really weird me out (i.e. faux lunch meat, no bueno)

  • Rachel July 21, 2010, 3:34 pm

    Besides Morning Star, every other one I’ve tried has been completely unedible. YUCK!

  • Holly @ couchpotatoathlete.wordpress.com July 21, 2010, 3:36 pm

    I haven’t tried a “fake” meat that I really like — if I were a vegetarian/vegan I’d want to focus more on natural types of protein: beans, nuts, green veggies, etc. I do like many types of soy cheese/veggies cheese. They taste good but not SO good that I’d eat the whole package at once (like I would with real cheese!)

  • Sarena (The Non Dairy Queen) July 21, 2010, 3:38 pm

    I never really did the faux meat very often. I am vegetarian and can’t have soy or dairy. So, I eat A LOT of beans. I love making bean burgers the most. Faux meats always seem to have a weird slicker to me. Your body definitely does strange things off the pill, but it does settle down.

  • Krystina July 21, 2010, 3:41 pm

    I’m vegan and I try to avoid faux meat because they just don’t appeal to me. I never feel good after I eat them and I’d prefer a healthier protein source.

  • Noelle July 21, 2010, 3:44 pm

    I’m not into the faux meat products, mostly because I don’t crave meat anymore so even the fake stuff grosses me out- unless I can identify the veggies in it (like Dr. Praegger’s are pretty good). I tried Gardein products last night actually (fake buffalo chicken) because of their simple ingrediant list and it was completely gross.. I’ve been sick all day (to put it mildly). Wouldn’t recommend!

  • Danielle (Runs on Green) July 21, 2010, 3:44 pm

    When I first “went vegan” I ate a lot of faux meat products because I was still used to the whole “must have solid source of protein at every meal” mentality. But I learned more, ate less of them, and just sort of grew out of them! I still love the Amy’s burgers though 😀

  • Amanda July 21, 2010, 3:46 pm

    Thanks for writing all about your experience with going off BC. I live with my boyfriend and we are not married, so I think I’ll stay on it until we’re in a more secure spot, but I’ve always thought about going off of it. I actually initially started taking the pill because I had lost too much weight and stopped getting my period. After taking progesterone to get it back, I went on BC to keep it regulated. I am definitely back at a healthy weight (and MUCH healthier mentally, too), but I often have fears that I’ll be unable to get pregnant or something. I’d much rather deal with all of that before I’m actually really trying to have a baby. Hope you feel better soon!!

    • caitlin July 21, 2010, 9:33 pm

      Thanks! I’m glad sharing my experiences is helping you 🙂

  • Tracey @ I'm Not Superhuman July 21, 2010, 3:48 pm

    I very much dislike sausages–real or meat free. I’m not a big fan of faux meat. I figure if I’m going to eat chicken, the real kind is healthier. I was surprised at how many crazy ingredients some fake meats have!

  • Heather July 21, 2010, 3:53 pm

    I like a lot of the faux meat products out there and gree that they are good in a pinch! My favorite is the morningstar farms veggie riblets.

  • The Linz @ Destination 26.2 July 21, 2010, 3:54 pm

    I haven’t cooked much with faux meat. But did try using crumbled tofu with taco seasoning in my tacos once and was amazed at the awesomeness. It tasted so amazing I didn’t even realize I was missing meat. I think if it’s done in the right way it can be yummo!

  • Samantha Angela @ Bikini Birthday July 21, 2010, 3:55 pm

    I only really eat tempeh since it’s fermented which means that it’s void of anti-nutrients (unlike other soy products).

    I’d much rather eat a real sausage than fake stuff.

  • Brittney July 21, 2010, 3:56 pm

    I’ve tried that same brand, only the veggie crumbles (like ground beef) not the sausage. The hubby and I like it in mexican dishes, chili, and shephards pie. We think it’s a pretty tasty alternative to ground beef once in a while.

  • Sara July 21, 2010, 3:56 pm

    I’m too afraid to be w/o pills. Do NOT want any little ones! (not now, anyway, later, pls!)
    The faux meat freaks me out a little. I tried chicken nuggets from TJ’s that look like chicken nuggets–couldn’t stomach it. The veggie meat balls weren’t bad–but it’s the idea that they look like meat … but my meat-loving husband eats all of it and doesn’t mind at all!

  • Kelly @ Kelly B Well July 21, 2010, 3:58 pm

    Just a quickie note that I’d love for you to recap how your progression off the birth control was when you’ve been off of it for a bit. I know everyone is different, but I am so terrified to go off of it and see what my body is ‘really’ like that it helps to read other peoples processes! (I seriously hope that makes sense. LOL)

    • caitlin July 21, 2010, 9:34 pm

      I will definitely be blogging about it!

  • Rosey Rebecca July 21, 2010, 4:00 pm

    I tried tofurky a couple months back. I thought it was decent. I love morningstar farms “sausage.” 🙂

  • Kacy July 21, 2010, 4:01 pm

    I love fake meat, but the grilled chicken looking stuff freaks me out!

    I hope the BC withdrawals go away soon, that sounds terrible!

  • Stacey @ Tipping the (Kitchen!) Scales July 21, 2010, 4:17 pm

    Your lunch looks good. I love pictures of eggs with perfectly runny yolks but I can’t stand to eat runny yolks, so my eggs are always way over cooked! Too bad you’re suffering trying to come off birth control.

  • Orla July 21, 2010, 4:18 pm

    I’ve only been veggie for a couple months so can’t comment on the faux meat prods. However I can’t say I would never use them. At the moment I am enjoying exploring all the different options but ask me again in 6 months!!!
    As for BC, I had to go back on it as a possible treatment for my endo and it affected me really badly so came off it within 4 days. It messed up my hormones that quick- but I am supreme sensitive to extra estrogen in my system. I have found that Evening Primrose Oil has been invaluable to dealing with my symptoms caused by surges and massive dips in my hormone levels. I take 1000mg per day in vegetarian capsules. It might be worth thinking aboun it for a 6-8 week period until your body adjusts. Plus it gives my hair a wicked shine. Added bonus!!! Good luck.

  • Tina July 21, 2010, 4:24 pm

    Give the icky feeling some time. It will go away in about a month or two.

    I’m all about morningstar farms sausages for faux sausage. Nothing compares.

  • Tamika July 21, 2010, 4:28 pm

    I’m having a love affair with Morning Star’s California Turk’y Grillers. They are AMAZING. I swear MS is tricking the world. I also enjoy the MS maple and hot & spicy sausage. Additionally, the Tofurky lunch meat and Smart Dogs are pretty yummy. I don’t eat eat faux meat often but you cannot go wrong with a veggie burger when you need something quick and nutritious.

  • Natalie July 21, 2010, 4:29 pm

    That is interesting that your body is adjusting that way. When I went off, I didn’t have any physical symptoms that I could feel, it just took me forever ot be regular again. Hopefully it ends soon. You’re lucky your hubby can do acupuncture on you!! 🙂

  • Emmanuelle July 21, 2010, 4:45 pm

    Wow I feel like I’ve been on the pill forever, its interesting to read how your body reacts to it, I hope it will go away soon.

    I eat faux meat sometimes, not a lot as I think it’s a little too processed for me, but it’s a good way to prepare a quick meal when we can’t be bothered!

  • Carly (Swim, Run, Om) July 21, 2010, 4:48 pm

    I eat faux meat sometimes, but I’d rather spend the money on tofu … or real meat! 🙂

    The doggy pic is too cute.

  • Liza July 21, 2010, 4:49 pm

    I don’t really like fake meat — like seitan!
    I much prefer tofu! I’ve tried tempeh once at a veggie restaurant and thought it was okay (too salty?), but I’m thinking about giving it my own shot! How do you like to use tempeh?

  • Sarah July 21, 2010, 4:50 pm

    I eat some faux meat occasionally but try to avoid having it a lot because it’s pretty processed. However, veggie burgers are perfect for going to a BBQ with friends because it makes being a vegetarian seem less difficult and “weird” to our meat-eating friends.

    One time I bought some Quorn product but then I did some reading about it. Honestly, it seemed creepy. I read all about it and still couldn’t figure out what exactly it’s made of. I tossed the whole box in the trash.

  • Morgan July 21, 2010, 4:51 pm

    DUDE! ME TOO (about the BC symptoms)! I just went off and I am having random,teeny headaches, a little nausea, white flashes, and my vision is acting all weird and blurry. I hope this subsides soon! I cannot believe that my low dose pills affected me this much!
    However, I do notice that I am not hungry all the time and I can control my hunger better even during marathon training. Weird, no?

    • caitlin July 21, 2010, 9:35 pm

      I was not hungry at all today – I had to force myself to eat.

  • Jolene (www.everydayfoodie.ca) July 21, 2010, 4:53 pm

    I have eaten faux burgers and ground beef … both were good, but I don’t eat them often.

  • Amanda @ Hungry Vegan Traveler July 21, 2010, 4:54 pm

    I used to eat a lot of faux meats when I first went vegetarian and didn’t know much about eating a balanced vegetarian diet. I’ve since long lost the taste for those items. I love tofu, but I don’t care for veggie burgers too often (unless they’re homemade). Some of them have a freaky appearance, too!

  • Kelly @ Healthy Living With Kelly July 21, 2010, 4:59 pm

    I really like Quorn products because they are meat-free AND soy-free! Since I don’t think soy in large quantities is good these work well for me!

  • Meredith @ An Epic Change July 21, 2010, 5:08 pm

    since I’m still fairly new to the veg game I tend to use fake meats when I’m absolutely craving. like recently I was craving a chicken breast, so the Gardein chick’n scallopini was PERFECT to kill it. I have those fake meat things occasionally, but I tend to get along well without them unless I have no other choice.

  • Orla July 21, 2010, 5:21 pm

    I’ve been on the pill for over 10 years now, and I have come off it a couple of times during that period. I’ve never had any withdrawl symptoms, just the onset of regular menstrual symptoms, so I just wanted to say be careful not to attribute what you’re feeling to BC withdrawl as you may overlook the actual cause! A lot of what you’ve been describing on Twitter could be down to something as common as stress or generally being run down (due to the stress!!) 🙂

    • caitlin July 21, 2010, 9:36 pm

      That’s true – but it does feel like its coming from my female regions LOL If that makes any sense.

  • Anne July 21, 2010, 5:21 pm

    I had a terrible reaction when I went off BC, but not as terrible as the side effects I had while on it! I know you’re already reducing your dairy, but eliminating dairy eliminated my cramps! If you’re up for the investment, there’s a device called the LadyComp that tracks where you are in your cycle and your fertile and infertile days. It’s worth looking into and has worked for me in the past.

    • caitlin July 21, 2010, 9:40 pm

      I am actually in talks with Lady Comp to do some sort of review! I hope it works out because I’ve heard great things.

  • sarah (this is it) July 21, 2010, 5:32 pm

    I eat “faux meat” products in moderation.
    They are convenient and bringing a veggie burger to work is always a back-up lunch plan in case I don’t get time to pack a lunch. The price prevents me from eating more than a few servings of them each week. I always check out the sodium content. I don’t care for Morningstar and usually like Boca and Light Life.

  • Melissa July 21, 2010, 5:35 pm

    I LOVE breakfast for lunch (and dinner)!! Veggie burgers are as far as I go with the faux meat, but the sausage looks pretty good!

  • Ellen@FIrednFabulous July 21, 2010, 5:36 pm

    I’m not a vegetarian, but sometimes I think I could be. I’ve been getting Morningstar veggie burgs a lot lately, and I only eat chicken occasionally and ham/turkey sandwiches once or twice a week. Then again, I DO love a good cheeseburger every so often! (Talk about a hangover helper!)

  • katelyn July 21, 2010, 5:57 pm

    I have an (un)healthy obsession with morningstar farms spicy black bean burgers…. I am not a vegetarian but would eat these ANY day over meat. When it comes to faux meat, however, I am a a veggie burger snob and am all about morningstar. so good!

  • Jenn (Jenn's Menu and Lifestyle Blog) July 21, 2010, 5:58 pm

    I’m not ashamed to admit that I like a lot of fake meat better than the real deal. Tofurky rocks my socks!! I could it it every. single. day. !! YUM

    Jenn

  • Katie @ Healthy Heddleston July 21, 2010, 6:06 pm

    I was getting all excited about the faux sausage until I saw it has wheat/gluten in it. Boooo. Usually I just do turkey bacon since some of the faux stuff has fillers that I’m allergic too. Double boo.

  • alex July 21, 2010, 6:06 pm

    I am vegetarian and I really don’t like all the “faux” meat products I’ve tried. I think it might be the texture, or the fact that it’s trying to be/taste like something it’s not. I do love tofu though, but not in “meat” form.

  • Lisa (bakebikeblog) July 21, 2010, 6:07 pm

    I havent tried a lot of faux meats due to many of them containing wheat 🙁

  • Hannah July 21, 2010, 6:12 pm

    You know, Caitlin, I’ve been thinking about your comment in one of your previous posts about NMTZ and how it’s a struggle for you to keep up with it because “it’s difficult to get motivated to do the super challenging dvd”. I have an idea (though it’s not revolutionary or anything) but what if you chose a simpler strength training dvd or beginner’s pilates workout? I know Jillian is famous in the blog world, but it sounds like, since you do mostly cardio, it would be more attainable to start with a more “beginner” program. That’s not bad at all, it’s just accepting where you are now, and who knows? one day you can kick Jillian’s butt! Hope this helps!

    Hannah

    • caitlin July 21, 2010, 9:42 pm

      I feel like I did that when I tried to do the 30 Day Shred. You are definitely on the right track, though. I just need to find the program that motivates me to stick with it. Sigh!! What is it???

  • Lizz (leadingthegoodlife) July 21, 2010, 6:15 pm

    I don’t eat too much faux meat…but when I do it’s usually in the form of sausage (I like both the MorningStar Farms and the Gimme Lean). I’ve found the veggie burgers that I like the most and the ones that taste more like veggies/beans and less like meat. But they were definitely helpful in transitioning from a meat-eater to a vegetarian!

    Once I had faux shrimp at a restaurant in New York that seemed so real I couldn’t eat it. I had to ask what it was made out of in order to convince myself that it wasn’t actually shrimp. Unfortunately, the waiter replied “It’s shrimp!”, quickly saw the horror flash across my face, and then laughed and assured me it was soy. So mean. 🙁

  • Erin @ A Girl & Her Mutt July 21, 2010, 6:17 pm

    I just tried this sausage the other day. I actually liked it compared to some other types I have tried.

    Oh, and fake shrimp from above?! Eek!

  • Stephanie July 21, 2010, 6:20 pm

    I do eat fake meat. For me, I didn’t fully become vegetarian because I “hate” meat like some people do. I love the taste, but want animals to be treated humanely. It’s very hard to make sure that is happening. So, because I miss the taste of meat, these fake meats are the next best thing for me. I try really hard not to get the super processed stuff, but it can be hard when you do fake meats. I stick with quorn, soyrizo and Field Roast (not made with soy.. you should check them out! yummm). I don’t eat fake hamburgers though, mostly stick with the fake chicken or sausage. I got a bacterial infection from an Amy’s Burger, so it’s still stuck in my mind right now.
    You know what i HATE though? Fake Bacon.. I forget who makes it, but there is only one place in L.A. where I will eat their fake bacon, because all the other stuff tastes like you’re eating paper.

  • Britt July 21, 2010, 6:31 pm

    There’s only a few faux meats I will eat. I never really liked meat to begin with that much, so its only weird when its meat I used to eat. I love morningstar’s taco “meat “, amy’s california burgers and one type of sausage but thats about it for me.

  • Maria @ Oh Healthy Day July 21, 2010, 6:34 pm

    Like most, I do enjoy Morningstar Farms Sausage patties when I’m in a bind and need a quick bite, but in general I avoid processed foods, which include faux meats. Also, I’m not a vegetarian, so that helps!

    Thank you for your open and honest discussion about the effects of BC. The thought of going off of it to me is scary, but I know eventually its in my plans. I’m so cautious about eating anything unnatural, so it only makes sense to drop the unnatural hormones. Good luck and I hope you feel better. P.S. I hear pedicures heal BC withdrawal 🙂

  • kalli@fitandfortysomething July 21, 2010, 6:35 pm

    i have always wanted to try that sausage-looks good. good luck with the acupuncture. i was a wreck when i went off BC pills and got back on them. not good but i could not chance the pregnancy thing either.

  • Heather July 21, 2010, 6:45 pm

    sorry you are feeling so out of whack! hope it calms down for you soon.

  • Jessica @ Rawtumn July 21, 2010, 6:59 pm

    I tend to shy away from faux meat products for some reason. I guess mostly because on the rare occasion that I actually crave poultry or fish I will end up having a little of it as long as it’s organic and/or free range. I strive to eat mostly raw vegan every day but I do not always succeed. I think it would be fun to experiment with though!

  • Katey July 21, 2010, 7:21 pm

    Hey I was wondering.. did you gain weight when you went on the pill? If its not too personal, what pill were you on? I’m currently on YAZ and its really been messing with my moods lately, and I’m considering going off. You should do a weekly update on your symptoms.. like if you gained weight going off or not.. I’m really curious!

    • caitlin July 21, 2010, 9:45 pm

      Since I was on the pill for 10 years, I have NO idea whether its resulted in me holding onto some weight. I’ll let you know if I drop anything. I was on generic orthotri cycln low and I do not recommend it.

      • Katie July 22, 2010, 6:23 am

        My pharmacy told me they don’t make a generic ortho tri cycln low! How dare they.

        • Caitlin July 22, 2010, 9:11 am

          oh i was wrong. its regular, not low.

  • Annie@stronghealthyfit July 21, 2010, 7:40 pm

    I’m not an official vegetarian, but just an occasional meat-eater. Never really loved stuff like sausage or pepperoni, but I have had that brand of veggie sausage and really like it. Most of the time I am fine without meat substitutes 🙂

  • Kim July 21, 2010, 8:15 pm

    I just had the Morningstar Farms Hickory BBQ Riblets this week and will DEFINITELY be buying them again… we had a carnivore friend over and I asked her to make them (i.e. pop ’em in the microwave), she LOVED them!!! I was skeptical at first, and my fiancee kept saying “riblet… riblet…” like a frog all night – but seriously, they ROCK! An excellent food for summer bbqs with corn on the cob!

  • Michal July 21, 2010, 8:50 pm

    I don’t mind faux meat, though I’ve always hated the smell of the faux bacon. But I do try to avoid soy as much as possible, and most Morningstar products have dairy/egg in them, so I can’t have them anyhow. Since I’m going with homemade as much as possible, I just make my own veggie burgers now. 🙂

  • Missy July 21, 2010, 8:52 pm

    We are vegan, so this is such a versitile meat for us.
    We use the gimmelean hamburger style in our pasta sauce,
    and we use the sausage one for many different things.
    One of our faves is a grilled mushrrom onion peppers sausage pizza.. roll little balls and sautee for a few in a pan then add to the pizza.
    one of our faves with the hamburger is from the peta website it’s called mamas mock meatloaf. it’s a staple in our home.. so HEALTHY for you, oats , panko crumbs, flax etc.
    good luck

  • Sarah July 21, 2010, 9:53 pm

    I’m a vegetarian, and I’m completely okay with non-meat products that copy their meat counterparts. I ate tofurky italian sausage today, and I really enjoyed it!

  • Chelsea @ One Healthy Munchkin July 21, 2010, 9:53 pm

    I love veggie burgers, but I’ve never tried a veggie sausage. I love the idea of adding one to spaghetti sauce though!

  • Amber K @ sparkpeople July 21, 2010, 11:44 pm

    I don’t eat faux meat products. The whole reason I don’t eat meat is because the taste and texture of it is DISGUSTING! Why would I want to eat a processed version of something gross?

    Although, I can see if you actually like it, you might want a substitute.

  • Cynthia (It All Changes) July 21, 2010, 11:56 pm

    I don’t eat it that often but it is great in a pinch. Makes it so easy. And it helps when I’m having a meat craving but can’t eat it.

  • Di July 22, 2010, 1:29 am

    Hey Caitlin, just so you know this stuff makes great sausage rolls! Brit food! Yum!

  • Sarah (GF vegan) July 22, 2010, 3:42 am

    I hope the greem monster and acupuncture helped with pill withdrawal symptoms and that you’re feeling better today 🙂

    I love good vegan sausages but I’m not a fan of vege stuff trying to taste like their meat counterparts. But, I can see how these products would be helpful for people trying to transition to a vege diet. The husbands not vege but I give him the faux meat stuff at home so he doesn’t feel too hard done by and he loves it!

  • Sarah (GF vegan) July 22, 2010, 3:43 am

    oops, that should be “husband’s” not “husbands”… don’t think I could cope with more than one man in my life!

  • Wei-Wei July 22, 2010, 8:18 am

    In China, all faux meat is made to look as much like meat as possible. I find it sort of creepy… I eat meat as a garnish, and would go for the vegetarian option when available.

    Wei-Wei

  • Nicole July 22, 2010, 9:24 am

    Hey! I didn’t have any withdrawals when I went off the pill…I hope the acupuncture works for you!

  • Lauren July 23, 2010, 12:16 pm

    Caitlin, have either you or the husband ever heard of acupuncture being used to treat acne? I’m struggling with adult acne, and an esthetician recently recommended acupuncture to me. I haven’t worked up the guts to try it yet, but it sounds interesting.

    • Caitlin July 23, 2010, 1:26 pm

      yup! the theory is that the acne is caused by an imbalance somewhere else in your body. it’s worth a shot (they might also give you herbs to take, which will also help)

  • Carter July 23, 2010, 12:28 pm

    Hey Caitlin,
    I haven’t tried the ground “sausage” yet, but the fake chorizo sausage links from LightLife are so tasty. I put them on a wrap with spinach, feta, avocado, and a little Woodstock dressing, and it makes the yummiest lunch!

  • Marj June 27, 2012, 7:15 pm

    The Gimmie Lean sausage is great for sausage gravy. My husband still doesn’t know and it’s been many years

Previous post:

Next post:

Search The Blog

Read by Month:

Read by Topic:

Healthy Tipping Point