Impossible ground beef has taken the world by storm as a revolutionary plant-based alternative to traditional ground beef. Made by Impossible Foods, this innovative product mimics the look, taste, and texture of ground beef while being made entirely from plants.
But how exactly do you cook this futuristic fake meat? Have no fear in this comprehensive guide, we will walk you through everything you need to know to cook Impossible ground beef like a pro.
Impossible Foods launched their flagship product, the Impossible Burger, in 2016 It quickly became a hit with its shockingly beef-like flavor and meaty texture Riding this wave of success, in 2019, Impossible Foods introduced Impossible Ground Beef to bring the same magic to recipes like tacos, chili, meatballs, and more.
Impossible ground beef is made mostly from soy protein, sunflower oil, and coconut oil. The key ingredient that gives it such a convincingly meaty taste is heme, an iron-containing molecule that occurs naturally in plants and animals. Thanks to heme, Impossible ground beef sizzles, crisps, and oozes fat just like the real thing.
Nutritionally, Impossible ground beef packs in about 13g of protein per 4oz serving and has no cholesterol. It’s also a more sustainable choice than traditional beef, using 96% less land and 87% less water to produce.
Now let’s get into the fun part – how to cook this mighty meat mimic!
How to Cook Impossible Ground Beef
Cooking Impossible beef is easy. You can use it in any way you would use regular ground beef. Here are some tips:
1. Thaw the Beef
Impossible beef comes frozen so you’ll need to thaw it first. This can take a few hours in the fridge or 30 minutes in cold water. Once thawed, it’s ready for cooking.
2. Season the Beef
Pre-season the beef with salt, pepper, spices, herbs etc. This helps the flavors penetrate deeply. Go bold with your seasonings!
3. Brown the Beef
For the best texture, you’ll want nicely browned beef. Heat up a skillet over medium-high heat and add a drizzle of oil. Crumble in the Impossible beef and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until browned.
4. Drain the Excess Fat
Real beef releases fat and juices as it cooks. Impossible beef does the same thanks to its plant-based fats. Drain off any excess fat before continuing with your recipe.
5. Finish Cooking
Once browned, add the Impossible beef to tacos, chili, pasta sauce, etc. Cook as recipe directs until heated through. And enjoy your plant-based meal!
Handy Tips for Cooking Impossible Ground Beef
-
Don’t overcook it. Cook just until hot and browned to maintain the juicy texture.
-
Add spices after browning so they don’t burn.
-
Because it’s plant-based, it can stick to pans more than real beef. Use non-stick cookware.
-
Not sure if it’s done? Cut into the thickest part to check internal color isn’t pink.
-
For a meatloaf or burger, mix in 1 egg and 1/4 cup breadcrumbs per pound of Impossible beef. This helps bind it.
-
You can substitute 1:1 for ground beef in any recipe. The flavor is versatile.
-
Roast Impossible crumbles in the oven at 375°F for tacos or taco salad with fantastic crispness.
Frequently Asked Questions About Cooking Impossible Beef
If you’re new to the world of Impossible beef, chances are you have some questions. Here are answers to some commonly asked FAQs:
Can I grill Impossible beef?
Yes! Form Impossible beef into patties or meatballs and grill away. It holds up great on a hot grill.
How do I know when it’s fully cooked?
It’s safe to eat once it reaches 160°F internally. Cut into patties to check they are browned throughout and not pink.
Can I cook from frozen?
We don’t recommend this. Always thaw first for the best texture and even cooking.
Is it healthy?
Compared to beef, Impossible beef has zero cholesterol, 14g less total fat, and 5g less saturated fat. It’s an all-around healthier choice.
Does it really taste like beef?
The reviews speak for themselves! The heme molecule gives it an uncannily beefy flavor. It brown and textures just like beef too.
Can I use it for a bolognese sauce?
Absolutely. Impossible beef makes an amazing bolognese sauce. Slow simmer it in the sauce for fantastic flavor.
What oil should I use to cook it?
Any neutral cooking oil like canola, vegetable, or coconut oil will allow the Impossible beef’s flavors shine.
Can I meal prep with it?
Cooked Impossible beef keeps for 5-7 days refrigerated so it’s perfect for meal prepping burrito bowls, chili, etc.
Will my kids eat it?
Kids are huge fans of Impossible beef! The mild flavor appeals to picky eaters. Plus, it satisfies their “want beef” cravings.
Satisfying Recipes Using Impossible Ground Beef
Ready to whip up some Impossible beef recipes? Here are a few of our favorites to get you started:
-
Meaty Meatless Chili – Swap in Impossible beef for the ground beef in your favorite chili recipe for a fiber and protein packed meal.
-
Juicy Burgers – Mix the Impossible beef with an egg and breadcrumbs to form mouthwatering, juicy burgers. Serve on buns with all your favorite toppings.
-
Shepherd’s Pie – Fill a casserole dish with sautéed Impossible beef, vegetables, and gravy then top with fluffy mashed potatoes. A cozy, hearty dish.
-
Lasagna or Cottage Pie – Layer noodles, Impossible beef marinara sauce, cheeses, vegetables, or mash in a baking dish for family-friendly baked pasta.
-
Sloppy Joes – Cook Impossible beef with your favorite sweet and tangy sloppy joe sauce and pile onto buns for that classic comfort food.
-
Taco Nights – Spice up Impossible beef with taco seasoning and stuff into soft tortillas or crunchy taco shells with all the fixings.
With the ever-increasing popularity of plant-based meats like Impossible beef, home cooks need to learn how to handle these products. The good news is, it couldn’t be easier to cook Impossible ground beef thanks to its incredible versatility. Simply swap in this innovative faux meat anywhere ground beef is called for. Your taste buds won’t believe that meatless meat can taste this amazing!