Substitute for Nutritional Yeast

Ran out of nutritional yeast or can't find it at your local grocery store? We've got a variety of plant-based alternatives that deliver similar savory, cheesy flavor, and nutritional value, making the ideal substitute for nutritional yeast.

Nutritional yeast is indispensable in vegan cuisine, which focuses on dairy-free ingredients. As a cornerstone of vegan cooking, finding a high-quality brand is key. It imparts a uniquely cheesy taste and savory depth to your dishes.

You can use this fantastic vegan staple in many vegan Italian dishes, especially pesto and risotto recipes. They are also great for adding that cheesy flavor we crave to most vegan cream and cheese recipes, like vegan bechamel sauce and vegan ricotta cheese.

Why nutritional yeast is so popular

According to WebMed, nutritional yeast is rich in nutrients, that are often lacking in vegetarian and vegan diets. It’s soy, sugar, and gluten-free, making it an excellent dietary addition for people with food sensitivities.

That’s why it’s a smart move to incorporate nutritional yeast into your diet. I always ensure I have plenty on hand.

But even with the best plans, life can throw a curveball. Imagine this: you're in the middle of your weekend feast and are about to make your 5-minute vegan lemon basil pesto for your pasta when you suddenly realize you’ve run out of nutritional yeast. Panic sets in!... I have been there!

So, let's explore what to do, but first, let's look into some really important things you need to consider before you pick the right sub!

Nutritional yeast alternatives

Looking for a nutritional yeast alternative can be tricky. It's similar to finding an egg substitute for baking, where you must consider their role in your recipes. Are you trying to replicate its flavor, texture, consistency, or nutritional benefits?

Depending on your goals, the ideal substitute will vary. So, let's think about the specific job you're trying to accomplish with your dishes and find the best alternatives to suit your culinary needs.

Adding Cheesy Flavor

• Vegan Ricotta Cheese: Creamy and mild, perfect for spreads and fillings in pasta dishes.
• Dairy-free cheese Shreds (such as Vegan Shredded Mozzarella): These melt well and add a stretchy, cheesy texture to pizzas and casseroles.
• Vegan Powdered or Shredded Parmesan Cheese: Sprinkle over dishes for a sharp, salty enhancement similar to traditional Parmesan.
• Yeast Flakes are a top choice for adding cheesy, nutty flavors to vegan dishes.
• Chickpea Flour: When toasted in a skillet over the stovetop, it can mimic nutritional yeast's nutty and cheesy flavor. It’s excellent for making vegan omelets, quiches, or maybe a tofu scramble.
• Ground Cashews: Ground cashews are processed to a fine powder or creamy paste in a food processor. They are excellent for adding texture and richness to vegan sauces and desserts. They also contribute good nutritional value, especially in terms of fats and proteins.

Adding Umami

Dry options

• Powdered Miso Soup: Convenient for adding a quick dash of complex, salty-sweet umami to dishes.
• Yeast Extract is best used when the recipe calls for a concentrated savory flavor.
• Finely Chopped Dried Shiitake Mushrooms: Their rich, earthy flavor deepens the savory notes in soups, vegan stews, and sauces.
• Dried Mushrooms: Ground into a fine powder, dried mushrooms can enhance dishes with a deep, earthy umami. Ideal for soups and stews, they are a gluten-free option that boosts the good nutritional content of meals.
• Mushroom Powder: Made from finely ground dried mushrooms, this powder is a great sub, providing a savory, umami flavor that enhances vegan dishes without overpowering other ingredients. Just one tablespoon can transform a dish, making it a great option for easy vegan recipes.
• Garlic Powder: A versatile and easy vegan flavor enhancer, garlic powder adds a robust flavor to dishes and is best used where fresh garlic isn’t available. It works well with yeast flakes and onion flakes for a full-flavored base.
• Onion Flakes: When your recipe calls for a mild, sweet onion flavor without the texture of fresh onions, onion flakes are an excellent choice. They dissolve well in liquid, making them a subtle yet effective ingredient in soups and sauces.
• Vegetable Bouillon: Available as cubes or bouillon powder, vegetable broth is a staple in vegan cooking. It adds a rich, savory flavor to broths and sauces.

Liquid and Paste options

• Coconut Aminos: Provides a sweet-salty flavor that enhances the savoriness without overpowering.
• Liquid Aminos: A gluten-free and usually less salty soy sauce alternative, liquid aminos add a mild savory flavor to dishes. This a great option for marinades and dressings, where just a splash can enhance the overall taste profile.
• Soy Sauce: A versatile condiment that deepens the taste profile with a bold, salty-umami kick.
• Tamari Sauce: Similar to soy sauce but gluten-free, offering a rich umami flavor with less sweetness.
• White Miso Paste: Light and slightly sweet, ideal for delicate dishes with a subtle depth.
• Dark Miso Paste: Offers a stronger, saltier flavor, great for hearty stews and marinades.
• Vegetable Broth: A foundational component in many vegan dishes, vegetable broth brings together flavors and adds moisture. It’s best used as a base for soups and stews, enhancing the savory flavor profile with each simmer.

Boosting Nutritional Value

• Ground flaxseeds are rich in Omega-3 fatty acids and fiber and are ideal for adding to a bowl of savory oatmeal, quinoa, millet, or porridge or as an egg substitute in baking.
• Sunflower Seeds: Packed with vitamin E, magnesium, and protein; excellent for topping salads or incorporating vegan burgers, like chickpea burgers.
• Almond Meal: High in protein and vitamin E, almond meal works well as a gluten-free flour substitute in baking, adding a slight sweetness and nuttiness.

Recipes using nutritional yeast

Running out of nutritional yeast doesn't have to derail your cooking plans. With a variety of substitutes at your fingertips, you can continue to enjoy rich, savory flavors in your vegan dishes. So, next time you find your nutritional yeast container empty, take it as an opportunity to explore and expand your flavor palette!