5 healthy seeds every kitchen should stock
What's the story
Adding various seeds to a vegetarian diet can boost nutrition and lend unique flavors to food.
While common seeds like chia and flax are popular, there are a few lesser-known seeds that provide unique benefits.
These uncommon seeds can be an excellent addition to any vegetarian pantry, offering nutrients like protein, fiber, and healthy fat.
Exploring these can add variety to meal planning and balanced diet.
Drive 1
Hemp seeds: A nutritional powerhouse
Hemp seeds are a protein powerhouse, packing all nine essential amino acids.
They also deliver omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids in the ideal ratio for humans.
Given their nutty flavor, you can sprinkle hemp seeds over salads or blend them into smoothies.
They also pack magnesium, iron, and zinc, helping your body with several functions.
Having hemp seeds in your pantry gives you a versatile nutritional boost.
Drive 2
Pumpkin seeds: More than just snacks
Most of us ignore pumpkin seeds beyond their use as munchies, but they are packed with nutrition.
They are high in magnesium, which is essential for muscle function and bone health.
Pumpkin seeds also contain antioxidants such as vitamin E that can help fight oxidative stress in the body.
Their crunchy texture makes them ideal to be added to the granola or baked into bread recipes.
Drive 3
Sesame seeds: Tiny but mighty
Though small, sesame seeds pack a punch with their nutrition.
They are an excellent source of calcium, which is essential for strong bones and teeth. This is particularly important on plant-based diets where dairy intake may be limited.
The sesame oil, derived from these tiny wonders, is widely used in cooking for its rich flavor profile.
Whole sesame adds crunchiness when sprinkled over dishes.
Drive 4
Sunflower seeds: Versatile ingredient
Sunflower seeds provide versatility both as snacks or as ingredients in recipes, thanks to their mild taste profile.
This makes them easy to incorporate without overpowering other flavors in the dish itself!
These little gems contain impressive amounts of vitamin E along with selenium, two powerful antioxidants.
They protect cells against damage from free radicals, thus promoting overall well-being. Especially with long-term consumption.