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It’s not just vegans who love nutritional yeast; in fact owing to its versatility, nutritional yeast is being used in more and more kitchens. Nutritional yeast is rich in essential nutrients, including B vitamins such as B12, thiamine, riboflavin, niacin, and folate, making it a valuable source of these micronutrients for vegans who may struggle to obtain them from plant-based sources alone. It’s popular for its cheese-like flavour which can be utilised in plant-based dishes.
Moreover, nutritional yeast is a complete protein, containing all nine essential amino acids vital for muscle repair and overall health. Its abundance of minerals like zinc, magnesium, and selenium further enhances its nutritional value, providing a comprehensive array of nutrients essential for vegan diets. Here are a few ways to use nutritional yeast
Use it for sauces and dressings
Nutritional yeast serves as the secret ingredient in creating creamy, flavour-packed sauces and dressings for vegetarian dishes. Whip up a classic vegan cheese sauce by blending nutritional yeast with soaked cashews, plant-based milk, and spices for a velvety texture and cheesy taste. For a tangy twist, mix nutritional yeast with tahini, lemon juice, garlic, and olive oil to create a zesty dressing perfect for salads or Buddha bowls. The umami punch of nutritional yeast adds depth to any sauce or dressing, making it a staple in the vegetarian kitchen.
Crispy Coated Snack
Transform simple snacks into irresistible treats by coating them in a crispy layer of nutritional yeast. Create crunchy kale chips by tossing kale leaves with olive oil, nutritional yeast, and sea salt before baking until crispy. For a protein-packed snack, coat chickpeas or tofu cubes in a mixture of nutritional yeast, spices, and olive oil, then roast until golden brown. These nooch-coated snacks not only satisfy cravings but also provide a boost of essential nutrients like B vitamins and protein, making them a guilt-free indulgence.
Nooch-Packed Breads and Bakes
Elevate the flavour and nutritional value of homemade bread and baked goods with the addition of nutritional yeast. Incorporate it into bread dough for a subtle cheesy flavour that pairs beautifully with soups and salads. For savoury muffins or scones, sprinkle nutritional yeast into the batter along with herbs and spices to add depth and complexity. The unique nutty, cheesy taste of nutritional yeast enhances the overall taste profile of baked goods, making them a delightful addition to any vegetarian meal.
Add them to broths and soups
Infuse vegetarian broths and soups with an extra layer of umami goodness by incorporating nutritional yeast. Add a few tablespoons of nutritional yeast to simmering vegetable broth to enhance its savoury flavour and depth. For a creamy soup, blend cooked vegetables with vegetable broth and nutritional yeast until smooth and velvety. The addition of nutritional yeast not only intensifies the taste but also boosts the nutritional content of soups and broths, making them a comforting and nourishing meal option.
Use it as a plant-based cheese
Craft homemade plant-based cheeses bursting with flavour and nutrition by incorporating nutritional yeast into the base mixture. Blend soaked cashews with water, nutritional yeast, lemon juice, and spices to create a creamy cheese sauce perfect for spreading on crackers or dipping vegetables.
For a firmer cheese, mix nutritional yeast with agar agar or tapioca starch and simmer until thickened, then mould into desired shapes and chill until set. These nooch-infused cheeses mimic the taste and texture of dairy cheese, offering a great alternative for vegetarian cheese lovers.
