Superfoods
What does Nutritional Yeast taste like?Discover the secret behind the delicious taste and nutritional benefits in our latest post: nutritional yeast. A culinary gem that not only enhances your dishes, but also provides a healthy boost to your diet.
NUTRITIONAL YEAST WHAT DOES IT TASTE LIKE?
Nutritional yeast is a versatile food supplement that also works as a seasoning for your meals. It stands out for its high content of quality proteins, as it contains the 9 essential amino acids necessary to build our own body proteins.
In addition to being an excellent source of protein, nutritional yeast is rich in fiber, vitamins and essential minerals. Unlike other yeasts, this version is deactivated, meaning it does not ferment. Although it resembles brewer's yeast, both are pasteurized and inactive.
Available in light yellow flakes, powder or granulated form, its flavor resembles aged cheese or salty nuts. It is widely used in the production of vegan cheeses, as well as in condiments and dressings for various dietary options due to its impressive nutritional density.
ITS ORIGIN
Nutritional yeast originates from sugar beets , a plant that belongs to the beet family, as well as sugar cane. Initially cultivated for its similarity to chard, it was discovered that the sweet crystals obtained during its production were similar to those of sugar. This led to the construction of factories intended to extract and sell this crystalline product as sugar.
During this process, it was observed that nutritional yeast was also obtained, which proved to be rich in nutrients and with greater benefits than brewer's yeast . Both nutritional and brewer's yeasts are derived from the single-celled fungus Saccharomyces cerevisiae . This fungus is responsible for the production of nutritional yeast and is also present in bread yeast. 
PROPERTIES
Since nutritional yeast is inactive , it is safe to consume even for those who suffer from food sensitivities or problems with candida and/or pathogenic bacteria in the digestive tract. It is important to note that although some people may experience symptoms, it does not introduce live yeast into the gut microbiota.
This product has all the B vitamins , except for B12. It is totally vegan, versatile and nutritionally complete.
As for minerals, nutritional yeast is a rich source of magnesium, chromium, copper, calcium, zinc, iron, phosphorus and selenium. Despite its slightly salty taste, its sodium content is moderate. For every 100 grams, it offers 50 grams of protein of high biological value and a significant amount of fiber.
This yeast is recommended for anyone, being especially beneficial for athletes, since a better response to oxidative stress and the immune system has been observed after competitions. There is scientific support that highlights its benefits in strengthening the immune system, aging, nervous systems, insulin regulation (attributed to its chromium content), bacterial flora, digestive health, as well as skin and hair care.
"It is totally vegan, versatile and nutritionally complete."
SURPRISING USES:
Delicious vinaigrettes
There are three simple combinations in which nutritional yeast stands out and, in addition, allows you to do without salt , which is especially interesting for those with restrictions on its consumption.
1- Try the first combination by mixing a generous tablespoon of nutritional yeast with four tablespoons of oil , pepper and lemon juice to taste. If you prefer less lemon, add a little cold water to thin the mixture. Add basil or oregano , and you will get a fresh dressing perfect for tomato or lettuce salads, grilled chicken, or any lentil- based salad.
2- In the second option, combine one tablespoon of yeast with two of peanut butter or crushed peanuts , apple cider vinegar or rice , and chili flakes or sauce to taste. This mixture is ready to serve with Chinese dumplings, rice noodles , on hot or cold cream, sautéed or roasted vegetables, or to accompany meatballs.
3- We finish this section by mixing a tablespoon of yeast with two of tahini , one of grain mustard or Dijon , lemon juice and a touch of sugar or honey . This combination is delicious with chickpea , couscous and vegetable salads, or to highlight the flavor of somewhat simple vegetables, such as zucchini.
·To the rich umami·
Nutritional yeast is also ideal as a sauce thickener and even as an ingredient to make vegetable burgers or meatballs, as it helps to texture and amalgamate the dough, and enhances the umami flavor of the preparation.
·Don't scratch yourself with the cheese·
Nutritional yeast is an ally for vegans , as it is key to achieving 100% vegetable flavors without resorting to dairy products. A concrete example is its use in the preparation of vegan pesto instead of Parmesan cheese, as it presents similar flavor notes and performs well as a substitute. You can replace the cheese with two heaping tablespoons of nutritional yeast , following the same process and adjusting as desired for a more pronounced flavor.
As you can see, it is a superfood to always have on hand at home. We hope that this article has encouraged you to try it and that you tell us your experience and questions on social networks . Until next time!
