• 1 cup TVP- textured vegetable protein also known as Total Soy Protein, TSP; sold as Nutrela Soy Granules in India (and Indian stores in the US)
• 2 tsp oil

Marinade

• 2 tbsp soy sauce- low sodium preferred add up to 2 tsp more if needed- do not add more or it will become too saty; can also use the little packets that come with take-out food; each packet is about 1 tsp, so you will need about 6-8 pkts
• 3-4 tbsp freshly brewed black tea or coffee darkens the otherwise pale-looking TVP
• 2 tbsp tomato ketchup can also use the little packets that come with take-out food; each packet is about 1 tsp, so you will need about 6-8 pkts; if using in Asian food, add only 1 tbsp ketchup
• 3/4 tsp crushed red pepper can also use the little packets that come with take-out pizza; each packet is about 1/2 tsp, so you will need about 2 pkts
• 2 tsp cumin powder
• 1/4 cup dried parsley can also use fresh curly parsley, finely chopped, 1/4 cup
• 1/2 tsp dried Mexican Oregano crush the dried leaves between fingers to release flavor; do not use too much, it is rather strong flavored
• 2 tbsp water adjust as needed- add more later if the mixture looks too dry.