Mexican-Style TVP Soy Chunks

These Mexican-style TVP soy chunks are smoky, savory, and perfect for meal prep. The soy chunks simmer in tomato broth to soak up flavor, then get pan-fried with onions, garlic, beans, corn, and warm spices until everything is rich and a little caramelized. Use it as a tortilla filling, spoon it over baked potatoes, or add it to a burrito bowl.

Total Time
55 min
Difficulty
Servings
6 servings

Hydrate the Soy Chunks Instructions

  1. In a pot, whisk together the vegetable broth and tomato paste. Add the TVP soy chunks.
  2. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer and cook for about 15 minutes until the soy chunks are tender and have absorbed flavor.
  3. Drain very well in a colander (they’ll be hot). For best texture, gently press/squeeze out excess liquid.

Mexican Mix Instructions

  1. Chop the onion. Heat 3 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
  2. Add the onion and 1/2 tsp salt and sauté for 4–5 minutes until softened.
  3. Peel and finely chop the garlic, add it to the pan, and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
  4. Add the drained soy chunks to the skillet. Drain and rinse the pinto beans and sweet corn, then add them as well.
  5. Add the remaining 3 tbsp olive oil, plus the remaining salt, garlic powder, onion powder, sweet paprika, smoked paprika, and a pinch of chili. Mix well.
  6. Fry for about 15–20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the mixture is browned in spots and smells amazing.
  7. Serve with baked potatoes, rice, or use as a filling for tortillas.

Notes

  • Drain and squeeze the soy chunks well — the drier they are, the better they brown in the pan.
  • If your broth is salty, taste near the end before adding the full extra teaspoon of salt.
  • Want it saucier? Add a splash of broth back in during frying.
  • Great as meal prep: keeps 3–4 days in the fridge and reheats well in a skillet.
  • Awesome add-ons if you have them: lime juice, chopped cilantro, jalapeño, or a little cumin.

Equipment Needed

  • Pot
  • Stove
  • Whisk
  • Colander
  • Wooden Spoon
  • Measuring Cups
  • Skillet
  • Knife
  • Cutting Board
  • Can Opener
  • Kitchen Scale