Nutritional yeast gets high praise for its health benefits, flavor, and versatility in a number of recipes.
Let’s be honest, the name “nutritional yeast” doesn’t sound all that appetizing.
What Is Nutritional Yeast?
Nutritional yeast is a dehydrated yeast product.
The yeast is harvested, washed, and then heated to dry.
For the final product, the yeast is then crumbled or pulverized into powder and packaged for retail sale.
Unlikeactive yeastor brewer’s yeast, nutritional yeast is pasteurized or heated to render it inactive.
Because it’s deactivated, nutritional yeast has none of the leavening power of the other types.
Taste
Nutritional yeast has a nutty, savory flavor.
It’s often described as “cheesy.”
Indeed, it’s used in vegan “cheese” sauces frequently.
Nutritional yeast is rich, with a lot of umami qualities, so a little goes a long way.
Uses
Nutritional yeast comes in two forms: flakes and powder.
They have the same taste, and they both melt or dissolve well.
Which kind you pick depends on how you’re planning to use it or personal preference.
Recipe Ideas
Nutritional yeast is versatile.
It can be used as a sprinkle on top of oatmeal orroasted veggies.
It’s delicious when used in place of Parmesan cheese on pasta, risotto, or soup.
Stir some into scrambled eggs or a tofu scramble for a hit of umami.
If you’re new to nutritional yeast, the best introduction might be with popcorn.
Sprinkle nutritional yeast and salt onto freshly-popped popcorn for a rich and incredibly cheesy flavor.
The heat and oil will help the powder or flakes adhere to the kernels.
Nutritional yeast can be unfortified or fortified.
Fortified nutritional yeast has added synthetic vitamins.
However, unfortified nutritional yeast still provides a moderate amount of B vitamins and other minerals.
If you’re looking for unfortified nutritional yeast, read the ingredient list.
Any added vitamins or minerals will be listed.
It also helps your body naturally produce energy.
Potential Dangers
Not everyone can safely use nutritional yeast.
Researchers recommend that individuals with irritable bowel disease (IBD), hypertension, and glaucoma avoid yeast products.
If in doubt, contact your doctor for further guidance before consuming nutritional yeast.
