Protein is key to every diet, including vegetarian and vegan. But what is the most beneficial vegan protein source out there?
Protein appears in fish, meat and eggs — we all know this — but finding a delicious vegan protein source is a lot easier than you might think.
Protein helps to build and repair our bodies, so what vegan foods can you find it in?
10. Nutritional yeast
Nutritional yeast is a great vegan protein source because it’s so versatile. It possesses an almost cheesy flavour and comes in both powder and flake form, meaning it’s commonly dusted over meals just like parmesan. It’s also rich in magnesium, zinc and all the B vitamins.
9. Lentils
Not only can you use lentils in soup, dhal or salads, but they’re also a great place to find fibre and they’re rich in protein.
8. Tempeh
Filled with probiotics, tempeh is an easily-digestible vegan protein source which contains twice as much protein as better known choices like tofu.
7. Teff
Teff is an ancient grain which is full of protein, a bit like spelt but without the high gluten levels.
6. Quinoa
There’re plenty of reasons why quinoa has proven to be such a popular vegan protein source. Grown from grasses, it can be refined into flour or used in seed form.
5. Seitan
Although containing some gluten as it is derived from wheat, seitan also possesses a huge amount of nutritional goodness. Use it as a meat substitute as it’s the perfect main vegan protein source for any meal.
4. Hemp seed
Hemp seeds are an easy vegan protein source, and are rich in both omega 3 and 6 fatty acids. You can add them to any smoothie or breakfast bowl.
3. Green peas
Those little peas are protein powerhouses, packed with the stuff along with iron, fibre, iron and vitamins A, Bs and C.
2. Oats
Oats are the ideal way to start your day as they’re full of protein to boost energy and fibre to get your body moving. You can add them to a smoothie or enjoy them with seeds and nuts for an even bigger protein fix.
And number one is… Seaweed!
Seaweed is packed full of protein and other nutrients like iron, magnesium calcium and iodine. You can even use seaweed as a healthy salt replacement! The seaweed produce available through Seaweed & Co. is harvested purely from the pristine waters of the Scottish Outer Hebrides, meaning you get the most benefits out of it.