What is Nutritional Yeast? Ingredient Spotlight

Nutritional yeast is a popular ingredient in many plant based recipes and I use it all the time! It definitely has an unappealing name and the whole "yeast" thing is a bit confusing but it truly is a very healthy food with tons of nutritional benefits...Here's all the deets on this yummy, cheesy flavoured ingredient and why you should stock up today!

What is Nutritional Yeast?
Nutritional Yeast is a deactivated yeast so it will not grow or expand like bakers or brewers yeast. It is grown mostly on molasses or sugar cane. It is harvested, washed and then heated (to deactivate it).

Why should you eat it?
Nutritional Yeast (Nooch - as it is lovingly called by frequent users) has 8 grams of complete protein in 1/4 cup with only 60 calories. It is also fortified with loads of B vitamins including B12 which is usually difficult to get on a plant based diet. B vitamins are essential for energy and a healthy metabolism. It is gluten and dairy and sugar free.

How to use it...
-sprinkle it on pasta or salads like you would with parmesan cheese
-use it to add a "cheesy" flavour to dressings, dips and sauces
-I love to sprinkle it on popcorn and add it on top of baked potatoes

Where do you buy it?
You can usually find it in the "health food" section of the grocery store or you can definitely find it at a health food or natural food store. It may be in the bulk section. My favourite brand is Bob's Red Mill.

How to store it...

I keep mine in an airtight container in the fridge.

My favourite recipes that use Nutritional Yeast:
Classic Black Bean Burgers
Fresh Lemon Garlic Zucchini Noodles
Kale Caesar with Roasted Brussels Sprouts

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