IGA is proud to be an agent of change when it comes to supporting innovative plant-based products right here in Quebec. Such products include VEGEAT, delicious patties made with yellow peas and vegetables, available exclusively at IGA. Pick some up today and wow your guests at your next get-together! These yummy plant-based burgers have the same look and texture as ground beef—except they’re 100% vegan! Even the biggest meat eaters will be pleasantly surprised!

Need another reason to try this product? Well, it’s made right here in Quebec—in Saint-Hyacinthe to be more precise. Plus, this plant-based “meat” contains 40% less fat than traditional ground beef and is allergen-free (no soy, no gluten). And finally, not only is it good for your health, but it’s also good for the environment; because it’s locally sourced, it travels much shorter distances to get to your grocery store!

COOKING METHODS

For delicious results when cooking these versatile products (on the stove or BBQ), here are a few handy tips.

PLANT-BASED SAUSAGES—PERFECT ANY TIME

Oven: Preheat oven to 200 °C (400 °F). Arrange sausages on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Bake on middle rack for 12–15 minutes, or until golden brown, turning sausages halfway through cooking.

BBQ: Preheat BBQ to medium-low. Clean and oil grids. Grill sausages, turning occasionally until golden (about 8 minutes).

Tip: Product is cooked when it reaches an internal temperature of 74 °C (165 °F). Use tongs to avoid piercing the sausage. Do not overcook or the sausage will dry out.

THE PERFECT ITALIAN POLPETTE

Oven, with tomato sauce:* Preheat oven to 200 °C (400 °F). Arrange meatballs on a baking dish and generously top with your favourite tomato sauce. Bake on middle rack for 12–15 minutes. *Preferred method

Oven, traditional method: Preheat oven to 200 °C (400 °F). Arrange meatballs on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Bake on middle rack for 12 minutes, turning meatballs halfway through cooking.

PATTIES FOR THE PERFECT BURGER

Preheat the BBQ or a pan to medium-high heat, then cook the patties 4 minutes each side.

Tip: The interior of the patty may still be red or pink when fully cooked. The product is fully cooked when it has reached an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

GROUND GOODNESS

Preheat a pan to medium-high heat, then cook the plant-based ground for 8 to 10 minutes, breaking up to desired crumble size using a wooden spoon or fork. Cook until browned.

Tip: Ground may still be red or pink when fully cooked. The product is fully cooked when it has reached an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

WHY VEGEAT?

What is this plant-based meat made from, exactly? You’ll be happy to know that the list of ingredients is not only short, but composed of foods you’re able to identify and pronounce: yellow peas, coconut oil, vegetables, citrus fruit and tapioca!

Every action counts when it comes to helping our environment. Plant-based proteins like VEGEAT boast a much lower carbon footprint than animal-based foods. In fact, producing plant-based proteins requires considerable less water, less agricultural land, less greenhouse gas emission and less energy than producing meat-based proteins.

So when you choose meat alternatives like VEGEAT, you can rest easy knowing you are doing your part for the planet . . . and your health.