Beefless . . . It's What's for Dinner.

Well, it was for dinner yesterday, anyway. I introduced my family to the delights of Gardein's Beefless Tips to mixed reviews. My son choked down two pieces and refused to eat more; my daughter ate one portion but did not request seconds; and my husband and I ate with gusto. I prepared the pieces (which are authentically meaty-looking) by sauteeing them with onions and mushrooms. Then I took them out of the pan and made a gravy with some parve beef broth and corn starch. I was a little wary, because we're not gravy people, but once I figured out how to keep the corn starch from lumping up, it turned out pretty well. I then put the beefless tips, mushrooms, and onions back into the gravy, and served it on top of egg noodles. The look and flavor were quite beefy; the texture was a little strange at first, but I got used to it quickly, and it ultimately was not a barrier to my enjoyment. And while the kids weren't thrilled with this particular recipe, they have agreed to try the beefless tips again if I prepare them differently. Girl suggested making them with tomato sauce and pasta, which could certainly work. I am eager to try Gardein's other offerings, especially the mandarin chik'n that my intrepid reader The Clever Cat recommended yesterday.