Why do we love nutritional yeast?

When you hear the word nutritional yeast, you probably ask yourself, what exactly is that?!... In this article, we will try to introduce it to you and encourage you to start using it in your favourite recipes.

Nutritional yeast is made from primary inactive yeast by cultivating single-celled organism, fungi Saccharomyces Cerevisiae on molasses substrate. After fungi have been rinsed and dried, yeast flakes are sold as a final product. Unlike regular yeast, nutritional yeast is inactive, meaning that will not expand in moist and heat.

Besides pleasant taste that is most commonly described as nutty or cheesy, nutritional yeast is fortified with vitamin B (folic acid) and beta-glucan (polysaccharides beneficial for the immune system) and contains micro-elements such as iron, zinc, manganese, copper and selenium. 
Possessing all 9 essential amino acids and protein abundance is an important fact that will gladden all vegans and vegetarians. Nutritional yeast doesn't contain fat, therefore is suitable for the high-cholesterol population. In addition, it's naturally gluten-free with high fibre content. Although they resemble cheese in flavour, these golden flakes are known for their low sodium and calorie content. 

Considering we are talking about inactive yeast, you will not be able to use it to make bread or homemade beer, nevertheless, there are a number of ways for its utilization.

Nutritional yeast is most often used in the same way you would a grated cheese. Sprinkle it over anything from salads and roasted veggies to pasta and rice for a subtle, savoury flavour boost. Toss a couple of tablespoonfuls with a little bit of olive oil, salt, and freshly popped popcorn for a "cheesy" snack.

Without further ado, check out this great recipe with flakes that work wonders in the kitchen:

• CRISPY POLENTA FRIES

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