How to use nutritional yeast in cooking
What's the story
Nutritional yeast is a versatile ingredient that can amp up the flavor of your vegetarian dishes without adding extra calories. This deactivated yeast, which is rich in vitamins and minerals, gives a cheesy and nutty flavor to the food. It can be used in a variety of ways to make your meals tastier and healthier. Here are some practical ways to use nutritional yeast in vegetarian cooking.
Tip 1
Sprinkle it on popcorn
Sprinkling nutritional yeast on popcorn makes for a delicious snack that is both savory and nutritious. The cheesy flavor it imparts makes it an excellent alternative to butter or cheese toppings. Just pop your corn as usual, and sprinkle with nutritional yeast while still warm so that it sticks well. You can even add some spices, like garlic powder or paprika, for an extra kick.
Tip 2
Use it as a cheese substitute
For those looking for a dairy-free cheese substitute, nutritional yeast is the answer. It works well in pasta dishes, sauces, and even pizza toppings. Mix it into your favorite pasta sauce, or sprinkle over a baked dish for added depth of flavor without the fat content of traditional cheeses.
Tip 3
Enhance soups and stews
Adding nutritional yeast to soups and stews can take their umami flavor to a whole new level. Stirring a couple of tablespoons into your broth-based soups will give them a rich taste profile that goes well with vegetables and grains. It also thickens the soup slightly, giving it a nice texture.
Tip 4
Create savory dressings
Nutritional yeast can also be used to make delicious salad dressings that are packed with flavor but low on calories. Blend it with olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and herbs for a creamy dressing that goes well with greens or grain-based salads. This dressing not only adds taste but also gives you essential nutrients like B vitamins.
Tip 5
Mix into baked goods
Incorporating nutritional yeast into baked goods like bread or muffins adds an unexpected depth of flavor without altering the texture significantly. Try adding some into your dough before baking for an enhanced taste experience that complements savory ingredients, like herbs or seeds, commonly found in these recipes.