I add plenty of oil in the pan and some onions, then add the dry TVP, mix well, add all the spices, let fry until it looks "right" and then I add water/veggie broth or canned tomatoes, depending on what I do. This works with small or smaller texture or "mince-type" or so.
With big, steak-like pieces I do soak them in hot water for like 5 minutes before frying, but never boil.