This Incredibly Flavorful (and Unexpected) Cut of Steak Is Way Cheaper Than a Traditional Filet

Plant-based eaters, listen up! There’s a new alternative protein in town, and it’s really, really good. 

It’s been about nine years since I first introduced intentional plant-based eating into my life. Over time, my diet has become more flexitarian, but I still make it a point to enjoy a vegetable-forward meal every chance I get.

While I’ve found excellent plant-based sausages, frozen chicken nuggets, and ground beef options, I won’t lie: It’s been a bit challenging to find a hearty alternative to a nice, juicy steak. That is, until I tried the Eat Meati Classic Steak. 

In 2022, Eat Meati unveiled its first plant-based steaks after years of researching alternative proteins. What makes this unexpected (and vegan) cut of meat so great is its whole ingredients. It’s made from 95 percent mycelium — a type of mushroom root — that is packed with 8 grams of fiber and 17 grams of protein. The rest of its ingredients are refreshingly short and understandable: salt, fruit and vegetable juices for color, oat fiber, and a touch of sugar. Oh, and the steaks are about $11 for a pack of two, which, compared to $20 to $25 a pound for filet mignon, is much more affordable. (I compare it to a filet because, like this cut, Eat Meati’s steaks have a much lower fat content). 

Now let’s talk about taste: I won’t tell you that this steak mimics the exact same flavor and texture as a traditional beef cut, but it’s pretty damn good in its own regard. I had the Eat Meati steak just a week after enjoying an actual pasture-raised filet. It has a similar smoky-meaty taste and a texture reminiscent of a well-done filet (which might not be a sell for all, but as a plant-based option it’s pretty spectacular). It actually cuts best against the grain, which is a fun tidbit that I didn’t think was possible with plant-based meat options! 

I’m planning on keeping a pack in my freezer at all times for whenever I’m craving a hearty, plant-based meal. 

I prepared my thawed steak according to the package directions: drying, salting, and letting it sit for 30 minutes before cooking. I then added a bit of avocado oil to my cast iron skillet and cooked it on each side for two minutes, flipping it about four times total (roughly eight minutes of cooking time). After, I lowered the heat and basted it in some rosemary and butter, I served it with some caramelized onions on top and oven-baked cauliflower on the side. 

It was just fabulous! I enjoyed it with my sister and she was also thoroughly impressed with its thick, satisfying flavor and texture. 

I’m headed back to the store to snag a few more of the classic steaks to throw on the grill this Labor Day weekend, but am also excited to try other varieties from the brand — next up, the Crispy Cutlets!

Buy: Eat Meati Classic Steak, $11.49 for 2 steaks at Instacart 

What new plant-based finds are you stocking up on? Tell us about it in the comments below!