The Holy Grail of Vegan Nutrition: Nutritional Yeast
Are you searching for the perfect plant-based addition to your diet that is packed full of nutrients? Look no further than nutritional yeast! This versatile ingredient is a staple in many vegan kitchens and for good reason. It’s nutrient-rich, delicious, and easy to incorporate into many different recipes. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at why nutritional yeast is considered the holy grail of vegan nutrition and its many health benefits.
What is Nutritional Yeast?
Nutritional yeast is a deactivated yeast that is sold in the form of flakes or powder. It’s made from a species of yeast called Saccharomyces cerevisiae, which is grown on molasses or sugar beets. After the yeast is harvested, it’s washed, pasteurized, and dried with heat. This process deactivates the yeast, which means it can no longer be used to leaven bread but is still packed full of nutrients.
Nutritional Yeast is Loaded with Nutrients
One of the main reasons nutritional yeast has gained such a strong following in the vegan community is due to its impressive nutritional profile. It’s high in protein and fiber, low in fat and sodium, and an excellent source of vitamins and minerals. Just two tablespoons of nutritional yeast contain:
– 60 calories
– 5 grams of carbohydrates
– 1 gram of fat
– 9 grams of protein
– 4 grams of fiber
– 30% daily value of thiamin (vitamin B1)
– 100% daily value of vitamin B12 (a vitamin that’s tough to come by on a vegan diet)
– 20% daily value of folate (vitamin B9)
– 15% daily value of zinc
Nutritional Yeast is Packed with Antioxidants
Not only is nutritional yeast nutrient-dense, but it’s also rich in antioxidants. Antioxidants are compounds that fight against free radicals in our bodies, which can cause oxidative stress and damage to cells. The antioxidants found in nutritional yeast are compounds called glutathione and selenomethionine. These compounds have been linked to a reduced risk of chronic diseases, such as heart disease, cancer, and Alzheimer’s disease.
Nutritional Yeast is a Good Source of Vegan Protein
For vegans and vegetarians, finding quality sources of protein can sometimes be a challenge – but not with nutritional yeast! As mentioned earlier, just two tablespoons of nutritional yeast contain 9 grams of protein. This makes it an excellent addition to vegan dishes such as soups, stews, and sauces.
How to Use Nutritional Yeast
Nutritional yeast has a savory, cheesy flavor that makes it a versatile ingredient in many different types of dishes. Here are some ways you can use nutritional yeast in your cooking:
– Sprinkle it on top of popcorn or roasted veggies for a cheesy flavor boost.
– Make vegan cheese sauces and dips by combining nutritional yeast with plant-based milks and spices.
– Add it to vegan soups and stews for a protein and nutrient boost.
– Use it as a seasoning in scrambled tofu or vegan egg dishes.
– Combine it with nuts and seasonings to make a vegan parmesan cheese alternative.
Conclusion
In conclusion, nutritional yeast is a fantastic addition to any vegan’s diet. It’s packed with nutrients like protein, fiber, and vitamins, as well as being rich in antioxidants. Its delicious, cheesy flavor makes it an easy ingredient to incorporate into many different dishes. So if you’re looking for a nutritious and tasty way to boost your vegan eating habits, give nutritional yeast a try – you won’t be disappointed!
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