These Faux Fish Fillets Taste Remarkably Like the Real Thing

Prior to going vegan, I loved all things seafood. I gravitated towards swordfish steaks, shrimp, and decadent lobster tails (especially during the summer). Once I switched up my diet, I didn’t expect to find alternatives that tasted remotely close to the seafood I loved eating, but luckily I found a trusted source of plant-based goodness that consistently makes swaps that I love.

In my years since going strictly vegan, I’ve tasted tons of different substitute products — both in my kitchen and out at restaurants. Of all the variations I’ve tried, Gardein Golden Fishless Filets have proven to be unmatched. They are by far the closest thing to real fish that I’ve tasted, checking off all the boxes for accurate texture, taste, and smell.

Buy: Gardein Golden Fishless Filets, $4.19 for 10.1 ounces at Target

I’ve been eating from Gardein’s range of meat substitutes for years, so when they introduced this product, I jumped at the chance to try it. (I have a habit of trying all of Gardein’s new items, but not all of them become regular purchases, I will admit.) These quickly made their way into my regular meals — and have even became a staple in my mom’s kitchen, too!

To prepare these, I usually follow the package instructions, but let them bake a little longer so that they get nice and crispy. I won’t eat these without a lemon on hand (they’re absolutely divine with citrus). Each package contains a half-dozen and the serving size is two pieces. That said, I find that four pieces are just the right amount — especially when augmented with a vegetable on the side.

Every time these go on sale at the grocery store, I buy as many bags as I can possibly grab. Of the Gardein products I’ve served up to friends and family, these flaky and tasty filets have been the most crowd-pleasing and convincing — especially when it comes to proving that vegan alternatives are where it’s at.

Do you have a plant-based seafood or meat alternative that you love?