Vegan cooking hacks and shortcuts

Being a vegan can sometimes be challenging when it comes to finding quick and easy meal options. However, with a few cooking hacks and shortcuts, you can simplify the process and make delicious vegan meals in no time. Whether you're a seasoned vegan or just starting out, these tips will help you save time in the kitchen and still enjoy healthy and tasty plant-based dishes.

In this blog post, we will explore some of the best vegan cooking hacks and shortcuts that will make your life easier. We will discuss time-saving techniques such as meal prepping, using kitchen gadgets, and utilizing pantry staples to create flavorful vegan meals. Additionally, we will share some creative ways to substitute common animal-based ingredients with plant-based alternatives, allowing you to enjoy your favorite dishes without compromising on taste or texture. So, get ready to level up your vegan cooking game with these handy tips!

Use nutritional yeast for cheesy flavor

One of the best vegan cooking hacks to add a cheesy flavor to your dishes is by using nutritional yeast. Nutritional yeast is a deactivated yeast that is rich in B vitamins and has a savory, cheesy taste. It is often used as a cheese substitute in vegan recipes.

To incorporate nutritional yeast into your cooking, you can sprinkle it on top of popcorn, pasta, or roasted vegetables for an extra cheesy kick. You can also add it to sauces, soups, or dressings to enhance the flavor. Nutritional yeast is widely available in health food stores and online.

Substitute coconut milk for cream

Coconut milk is a versatile and dairy-free ingredient that can be used as a substitute for cream in many recipes. Not only does it add a creamy texture, but it also imparts a subtle coconut flavor to your dishes.

To substitute coconut milk for cream, simply replace equal amounts of cream with coconut milk. For example, if a recipe calls for 1 cup of cream, you can use 1 cup of coconut milk instead.

Coconut milk works particularly well in curries, soups, and sauces. It can also be used to make vegan whipped cream by chilling a can of coconut milk in the refrigerator overnight and then whipping the solidified cream with a little sweetener.

Not only is coconut milk a great vegan alternative to cream, but it also offers health benefits. It is rich in healthy fats, vitamins, and minerals, and can help improve digestion and boost the immune system.

So the next time you're in need of a cream substitute in your vegan cooking, reach for a can of coconut milk and enjoy the creamy goodness it adds to your dishes!

Make flaxseed eggs as a binder

Flaxseed eggs are a great vegan alternative to traditional eggs when it comes to binding ingredients together in recipes. To make a flaxseed egg, simply combine 1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed with 3 tablespoons of water. Stir well and let the mixture sit for about 5 minutes until it becomes gel-like.

This flaxseed egg mixture can be used as a binder in various recipes such as vegan meatballs, veggie burgers, or even as an egg replacement in baking recipes like cookies or cakes.

Benefits of using flaxseed eggs:

• Flaxseeds are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which are beneficial for heart health.
• They are high in fiber, which aids in digestion and helps you feel fuller for longer.
• Flaxseeds are also a good source of plant-based protein.
• Using flaxseed eggs is a great way to reduce cholesterol intake, as they are cholesterol-free.

So, next time you're in need of a binder for your vegan recipes, give flaxseed eggs a try. They are easy to make, versatile, and provide numerous health benefits.

Use tofu for creamy sauces

One great vegan cooking hack is to use tofu as a base for creamy sauces. Tofu has a neutral taste and a smooth texture, making it perfect for creating a creamy consistency without using dairy products.

To make a tofu-based sauce, start by blending silken tofu in a food processor or blender until it becomes smooth and creamy. You can then add your preferred seasonings and flavors such as garlic, nutritional yeast, lemon juice, or herbs. Blend everything together until well combined.

This creamy tofu sauce can be used in various dishes such as pasta, lasagna, or even as a dip for vegetables. It adds a rich and velvety texture to your meals without the need for heavy cream or butter.

Not only is tofu a great substitute for dairy-based creams, but it also adds a good source of protein to your dishes. It's a versatile ingredient that can be used in both savory and sweet recipes.

So next time you want to create a creamy sauce without using dairy, give tofu a try. You'll be surprised by how delicious and nutritious it can be!

Try aquafaba as an egg substitute

Aquafaba is a wonderful vegan ingredient that can be used as an egg substitute in various recipes. It is the liquid that you find in canned chickpeas or the water left over after cooking chickpeas from scratch.

To use aquafaba as an egg substitute, simply drain the liquid from a can of chickpeas and use it in place of eggs in your recipe. It works particularly well in recipes that call for whipped egg whites, such as meringues or mousses.

Aquafaba can also be used to make vegan mayonnaise, as it emulsifies just like eggs do. Simply whisk together aquafaba, oil, vinegar or lemon juice, and seasonings to create a creamy and delicious mayo alternative.

Another great use for aquafaba is in vegan baking. It can be used as a binder in cookies, cakes, and muffins. Replace each egg in the recipe with about 3 tablespoons of aquafaba for best results.

So next time you're looking for an egg substitute in your vegan cooking, give aquafaba a try. It's a versatile and easy-to-use ingredient that can help you create delicious vegan dishes without sacrificing taste or texture.

Use cashews to make creamy dressings

One of the best vegan cooking hacks is to use cashews to make creamy dressings. Cashews are a versatile ingredient that can be transformed into a smooth and creamy texture when soaked and blended.

To make a cashew-based dressing, start by soaking the cashews in water for a few hours or overnight. This helps to soften them and makes them easier to blend. Once the cashews are soaked, drain the water and add them to a blender or food processor.

Add other ingredients such as lemon juice, garlic, salt, and your choice of herbs or spices to the blender with the cashews. Blend everything together until you achieve a smooth and creamy consistency.

This vegan cashew dressing can be used as a substitute for traditional creamy dressings in salads, sandwiches, or as a dip. It adds a rich and decadent flavor to your dishes without the need for dairy or eggs.

Not only are cashew dressings delicious and versatile, but they are also a healthier alternative. Cashews are a good source of healthy fats, protein, and minerals. They can help to lower cholesterol levels, support heart health, and provide essential nutrients.

So next time you're looking for a vegan cooking shortcut, give cashew dressings a try. They are easy to make, delicious, and a great addition to your plant-based cooking repertoire.

Experiment with vegetable broth powders

Using vegetable broth powders can be a great way to add flavor to your vegan dishes without having to make homemade vegetable broth from scratch. These powders are typically made from dehydrated vegetables and spices, and they can be easily dissolved in water to make a flavorful broth.

When using vegetable broth powders, it's important to read the labels and choose ones that are vegan-friendly and free from any animal-derived ingredients. Some vegetable broth powders may contain added MSG or other additives, so it's always a good idea to check the ingredients list.

How to Use Vegetable Broth Powders:

• As a soup base: Dissolve the vegetable broth powder in hot water and use it as a base for your favorite vegan soups. It will add depth of flavor and enhance the overall taste of the soup.
• In sauces and gravies: Add a teaspoon or two of vegetable broth powder to your sauces and gravies to give them a savory boost.
• In marinades and dressings: Mix some vegetable broth powder with your marinades or dressings to infuse them with a delicious umami flavor.
• In rice and grain dishes: Sprinkle a little vegetable broth powder into your rice or grain dishes while cooking to add a subtle savory taste.

Pro tip: When using vegetable broth powders, it's always a good idea to taste the dish before adding any additional salt, as the powders can be quite salty on their own.

By incorporating vegetable broth powders into your cooking, you can easily elevate the flavors of your vegan dishes and create delicious meals with minimal effort. Give it a try and see how it enhances your culinary creations!

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What are some easy vegan substitutes for common ingredients?

Plant-based milk for dairy milk, tofu for eggs, and coconut oil for butter.

2. How can I add flavor to vegan dishes?

Use herbs and spices, nutritional yeast, and citrus juices.

3. Are there any quick vegan meal ideas?

Avocado toast, vegetable stir-fry, and chickpea salad wraps.

4. How can I make vegan desserts without eggs?

Replace eggs with mashed bananas, applesauce, or flaxseed gel.