Seeking a delicious and nutritious addition to your meals that your family will love? Want a cheesy touch to enhance your dishes without the guilt? Introducing nutritional yeast!
Curious about this? It sounds just like yeast, but with a cheesy twist? Let’s dive in!
Understanding Nutritional Yeast
To begin with, let’s unravel the mystery of yeast. Essentially, yeast is a fungus, distinct from molds. With around 320 types of this tiny organism, yeast has been our culinary ally for ages, fermenting beverages and making our bread rise. While they can make our food delectable and nutritious, they can also spoil it and sometimes affect our health. My first tryst with yeast was during a college microbiology class, observing its budding process under a microscope.
While I had always known about baker’s yeast used in bread-making, my journey took a new turn when I became a mother. I came across brewer’s yeast, which I tried in a smoothie to boost breast milk production. Unfortunately, it wasn’t the best tasting. But then, I stumbled upon another yeast variant: nutritional yeast.
You might think, isn’t all yeast the same?
Surprisingly, no. Nutritional yeast is quite unique.
What Sets Nutritional Yeast Apart?
Though derived from the same strain as baking yeast, nutritional yeast is inactive. Simply put, these yeast cells are dead and dried. So, don’t expect to make bread or pastries with it. (For that purpose, check out this guide on making your own active yeast.)
Usually, it comes as yellow flakes or powder. In some places like Australia, it’s called “savory yeast flakes.” Packed with proteins, vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, this yeast is cultivated specifically for culinary purposes.
How Do We Get It?
Nutritional yeast is grown in sugar-rich environments, like molasses. After cultivation, the yeast cells are rendered inactive. These cells are then cleaned, dried, and crumbled for culinary use.
Is It Tasty?
In my experience, absolutely! It has a rich, nutty taste with a hint of umami. It’s a go-to for many vegans as a cheese substitute.
Usage Ideas?
View it as a seasoning. Here are a few suggestions:
- Sprinkle on salads, potatoes, or popcorn.
- Mix in soups, sauces, smoothies, mashed or fried potatoes.
- Add to scrambled eggs for a cheesy punch.
The possibilities are endless, limited only by your taste and creativity.
Health Benefits?
Nutritional yeast is a powerhouse of Vitamin B-12, crucial for a healthy nervous system and reducing anemia risks. It’s also a treasure trove of antioxidants, other B vitamins, and essential amino acids, making it a complete protein. Plus, it’s low-calorie, fat-free, and may aid in reducing cholesterol, regulating blood sugar, and boosting immunity.
However, be aware that in rare instances, it might cause migraines or irritable bowel syndrome for some.
Storage Tips?
Keep it in an airtight container in a cool, dry spot. For longer shelf life, refrigerate it. It’s typically available in grocery stores next to baking yeast. I personally vouch for Bragg’s brand, which is widely accessible.
Why Preppers Should Consider It?
A must-have for every pantry! Given its nutritional value, long shelf life, and compatibility with diverse diets (even gluten-free ones), nutritional yeast is perfect for emergencies and regular meals.
Do you have nutritional yeast in your food storage? How do you incorporate it?
