Are these products truly gluten-free?

Only if you make them that way! Many store-bought vegan meats contain vital wheat gluten or hidden wheat-based thickeners. Always read the label. Better yet, make your own gluten free vegan meat alternatives at home where you control every ingredient.

Which has the meatiest texture?

For homemade options, lentils with mushrooms offer great bite, while tempeh is firm and chewy. Chickpea and oat-based patties also hold together well when properly seasoned and chilled before cooking.

Which is highest in protein?

Tempeh leads the pack, followed by lentils, chickpeas, and quinoa. You can increase protein in your homemade meats by adding hemp seeds, nutritional yeast, or sunflower seed flour.

What if I want whole‑food instead of processed?

You’re in the right place. All of the recipes and ideas in this article focus on whole-food gluten free vegan meat alternatives —no isolates, no fillers, just nourishing ingredients from your kitchen.

Gluten Free Vegan Meat Alternatives – 15 Craveable Recipes That Work

Description

This hearty, high-protein lentil-walnut burger is a plant-based classic—firm, smoky, and fully gluten-free. Packed with flavor and texture, it’s a perfect meat-free main that holds together on the grill.

Ingredients

Scale

1 cup cooked green or brown lentils
1/2 cup raw walnuts
1/4 cup rolled oats (gluten-free certified)
1/4 cup grated carrot
1 tbsp ground flaxseed
2 tbsp tomato paste
1 tbsp tamari (or coconut aminos)
1 tsp smoked paprika
1/2 tsp garlic powder
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. In a food processor, pulse walnuts and oats until coarsely ground.

2. Add lentils, carrot, flax, tomato paste, tamari, and seasonings.

3. Pulse until well combined but not pureed.

4. Form into 4 patties and chill for 20–30 minutes.

5. Pan-fry over medium heat for 4–5 minutes per side until browned.

6. Serve on gluten-free buns with toppings of choice.

Notes

For extra texture, leave some lentils whole.

These freeze well—shape, wrap, and freeze for up to 3 months.

Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 10 mins
Category: Main Course
Method: Pan-fried
Cuisine: American-Inspired

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 patty
Calories: 210
Sugar: 2g
Sodium: 270mg
Fat: 10g
Saturated Fat: 1g
Unsaturated Fat: 7g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 21g
Fiber: 6g
Protein: 10g
Cholesterol: 0mg

Keywords: gluten free vegan meat alternatives, lentil burger, vegan burger recipe