How to Use Your Alternative Proteins
Alternative proteins can add new life to your meals. Not only can these foods provide an adequate replacement for animal proteins, but they often provide additional nutrients and health benefits. Below you will find a few ways to incorporate these types of proteins into your snack or meals.
Never Fear, Soy is Here
Tofu and tempeh are products derived from soy. These products are neutral in taste and will take on the flavors of whatever dish they are in. These proteins can be seared, grilled, baked, or pan fried the same as animal proteins.
Nutritional Yeast, the Vegetarian's Treat
If you follow a vegetarian or vegan diet, you may already be familiar with nutritional yeast. This complete protein provides a significant amount of vitamin B12, a vitamin that may be lacking in a vegetarian or vegan diet. Try adding nutritional yeast to popcorn, pasta dishes, or soups.
Eggs-actly What You Need
Eggs may be the most flexible protein in any chef’s kitchen. Whether you boil, scramble, poach, or bake, this versatile protein is loaded with vitamins, minerals and even antioxidants. Eggs contain plenty of vitamin A, lutein, and zeaxanthin to protect against damage done by free radicals.
Load Up on Legumes
Legumes are packed with nutrients, including protein, fiber, carbohydrates, vitamins, and minerals. Try adding legumes to salads, soups, and stews!
What is a Complete Protein?
Soy, nutritional yeast, and eggs are complete protein sources, which means they have all nine essential amino acids. Many plant proteins, such as legumes, are incomplete proteins because they are missing one or more of the essential amino acids. Pair your legumes with a whole grain to make it a complete protein!
GenoPalate Challenge
Cook one of your alternative proteins in a meal
this week.