For those following a vegan and carbohydrate-conscious lifestyle, this adaptable ground beef substitute is a must-have. The base of this recipe isn't meat, but rather savory cremini mushrooms, carefully prepared to mimic the texture and flavor of traditional ground beef. The mushroom base readily absorbs seasonings, allowing you to customize the taste to your preference.

The recipe provides a foundation, and you are welcome to experiment with additional spices and herbs to create a signature blend that suits your palate. The culinary applications for this vegan ground beef are extensive. Shape it into patties for satisfying burgers or roll it into small spheres for flavorful meatballs, ideal for serving in sandwiches or alongside pasta dishes.

Alternatively, maintain its loose, crumbly texture to create wholesome taco or burrito bowls. This versatile mixture also lends itself well to dishes like stroganoff, quesadillas, hearty chili, or quick stir-fries, offering a plant-based twist on classic favorites. For optimal freshness, store the vegan ground beef mixture in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days.

This allows you to prepare a batch in advance and incorporate it into various meals throughout the week, saving you time and effort in the kitchen. Vegans can sometimes find it challenging to consume enough protein while also limiting carbohydrates. One helpful addition to this recipe is nutritional yeast, which can be found in the baking or health food sections of most grocery stores.

Just a tablespoon of nutritional yeast adds approximately 4 grams of protein and only 2 grams of carbohydrates. If desired, stir nutritional yeast into your vegan ground beef during the final step of the recipe to increase the protein content. Once the vegan ground beef is prepared, consider forming it into patties and baking them in the oven for a simple and healthy meal.

Preheat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. Once the mixture is cool enough to handle, shape it into 2-ounce patties and arrange them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 10-15 minutes on one side, then flip and cook for an additional 5 minutes.

Serve the cooled burger patties with your favorite vegan toppings for a delicious and satisfying meal.