I've been trying out Textured Vegetable Protein in these "burrito bowls" I do (literally just rice + beans + protein and some seasoning/sauce) and I don't think it's for me. Sawdusty vibes tbh.
Out of the three other meat alternatives I put in the title what would you recommend? I'm leaning towards tofu because it's somewhat familiar but the whole "pressing" situation seems annoying
I prefer tofu, I haven't found it essential to press it but maybe some varieties you need to. I cut open the edge of the pack and squeeze it a little before taking out the tofu to get some water out though. Super simple and no saw dust vibes. If you do press it it's not very troublesome, it just takes a little extra time but not more than half an hour.
I worked in a ramen restaurant and didn't press or even cook the tofu, I thought it was odd at first but it became my favorite way to do it because it's so easy and has a nice texture but it depends on the type. I can't find the brand we used that I really enjoyed but some have a much less pleasant flavor IMO and probably need more draining.