How to Add Flavor to Plant Protein
How to Add Flavor to Plant Protein
A common concern of people interested in eating more plant protein such as beans, lentils and tofu is whether meals and snacks will lack flavor. We all experience tastes differently, but here are a few general techniques and ingredients that add flavor to plant protein.
Alliums. Alliums are a family of vegetables that includes onions, garlic, shallots, scallions, leeks, chives, ramps and more. Incorporating these bold ingredients into a dish with plant protein such as Easy Black Bean Tacos adds a lot of flavor. Also, alliums provide health benefits.
Cooking method. Canned beans and tofu straight out of the package are both edible but may not have the most appeal in terms of flavor when consumed by themselves. Sautéeing beans with alliums and pressing them against the side of the pan results in flavorful, creamy beans for tacos. For crispy tofu, using a starch such as arrowroot powder or cornstarch can help tofu crisp up nicely.
Herbs and spices. Herbs (fresh and dried) and spices add a lot of flavor to plant protein. Roast nuts and seeds with ingredients such as cinnamon, rosemary or smoked paprika for flavorful, protein-forward snacks.
Seasonings. Ingredients such as nutritional yeast and red pepper flakes are add-ons that boost flavor in a dish either during the cooking process or served as a topping.
Heart-healthy fats. Oils and nut and seed butters have their own unique flavor profile that can enhance the taste of an overall dish. Sesame oil and toasted sesame oil are two ingredients that pair well with edamame and tofu.
Make plant-forward eating fun by choosing a variety of methods to enhance the flavor of plant proteins.
