Learn more about this healthy, flavorFULL seasoning you can add to just about anything!
When you think of yeast, you might think about the fine powder that bakers add to dough to help leaven bread. Or you may think about the yeast that brewers use in beer. Nutritional yeast is in the same family as baker’s and brewer’s yeast, but instead of a means to a wheaty end, this gluten-free condiment has been deactivated, washed, dried, and crumbled into flakes or powder in order to top off meals. It is meant to be shaken on top of your food and eaten as is. No brewing or baking required.
Below are three benefits to eating nutritional yeast and how you can easily add it into your meals.
Nutritional yeast is no simple seasoning. It actually is a complete protein, packed with all nine of the essential amino acids. Vegetarians and vegans can use this to effortlessly increase their protein intake. It also contains minimal calories, boasts zero grams sugar and gluten, and helps satisfy savory cravings with its cheesy, nutty flavor.
The yeast is full of B vitamins as well. If you purchase the fortified version of nutritional yeast, you can find a surplus of thiamine, riboflavin, niacin, vitamin B6, and vitamin B12. You can also find several trace minerals in the condiment as well, including zinc, selenium, manganese, and molybdenum. All of these vitamins and minerals can help regulate your metabolism and immunity.
Nutritional yeast will flush your body with antioxidants, specifically glutathione and selenomethionine, which protect your cells from free radical damage and boost them to eliminate environmental toxins. Antioxidants can also help protect your body from chronic diseases, such as cancer and heart disease.
Look for nutritional yeast in the spice aisle at the grocery store or find it here. Once you purchase it, keep it tightly sealed in a cool, dark place in order to preserve its nutrients. To receive the full nutritional benefits, you only need to consume 1-2 tablespoons.
You can have a lot of fun cooking with nutritional yeast. Sprinkle some on top of your veggies before throwing them on the grill, or enjoy them on top of your popcorn, in your soups, as a thickening agent for sauces, or as a cheese substitute for salads or pasta.
For a place to start, check out these nutritional yeast recipes!