What is that vegeterian substitute for ground beef called?

[Munley]

And if you put it in chili, does it really pass for chili?

[jessikalindst]

Usually it's tofu but I've heard of people using other things but I think tofu is best because it's so versatile. Chili is chili, regardless of the chosen meat or substitute in this case, as long as the typical spices are used it's still chili. 

[Terri_Martin]

There's also something called TVP (textured vegetable protein), which I think is soy-based. Haven't seen it for years so it might not be a thing anymore -- but if your setting is in the 1980s/1990s, though, it would be OK to use.

[jcwrites]

Sawdust?

[koji]

TVP is definitely still around. Just have to know where to get it. (And if cooked right can be delicious)

[jldelozier]

Seitan
https://www.bing.com/images/search?q=seitan&FORM=HDRSC2

[007 fan]

http://www.eatingwell.com/article/289565/9-vegetarian-vegan-protein-substitutes/


I googled out of curiosity (don't know anything about meat substitutes) and found the info in link surprisingly considerable, meaning I might consider trying one or more of those things someday. 

Anyway, what it says about lentil sounds perfect for chili.

[Munley]

Wow! Thanks for all these replies.

Checking them out now. Think I'll start with the sawdust from our cellar. Then get my lazy butt to the grocery store for the other stuff.

[Munley]

Made the chili. It's very good.

The texture of the "meat" is pretty convincing. Still miss the ground beef flavour, though.

Thanks, everyone, for your help.

[koji]

TVP with a beef boullion cube and some garlic (boiled together and hydrated before frying in oil) can give a convincing ground beef sub

[Munley]

TVP with a beef boullion cube and some garlic (boiled together and hydrated before frying in oil) can give a convincing ground beef sub

Good idea. I pretty much quit eating beef, but I think I'll try boiling a beef soup bone with some veggies to get somewhat of a beef broth. I tend to get headaches from all the extra additives in commercial cubes. Thanks!