In vegan cooking, some ingredients are beloved staples—hello, almond milk and tofu! But what about the hidden gems waiting in the corners of your pantry? These underrated, powerhouse ingredients bring flavor, texture, and health benefits to every meal. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a curious beginner, discover 10 surprising must-haves that will take your plant-based dishes to new heights.
- Aquafaba
- What is it? The liquid from canned chickpeas.
- Why it’s amazing: A vegan’s secret weapon for whipping up meringues, mousses, and more.
- Health benefits: Low in calories and rich in saponins, which may have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.
- Black Salt (Kala Namak)
- What is it? A sulfur-rich salt with an eggy flavor.
- Why it’s amazing: Adds that “egg-like” taste to vegan omelets, scrambles, and more.
- Health benefits: Contains trace minerals and may support digestion.
- Nutritional Yeast (Nooch)
- What is it? Deactivated yeast flakes with a cheesy, nutty flavor.
- Why it’s amazing: Perfect for cheesy sauces, popcorn, or pasta.
- Health benefits: Packed with B vitamins, including B12 in fortified versions, and offers plant-based protein.
- Jackfruit
- What is it? A tropical fruit with a meat-like texture when unripe.
- Why it’s amazing: Great for tacos, BBQ sandwiches, and more.
- Health benefits: Low in calories but rich in vitamin C, potassium, and antioxidants.
- Miso Paste
- What is it? A fermented soybean paste used for savory depth.
- Why it’s amazing: Adds umami to soups, dressings, and even desserts.
- Health benefits: Rich in probiotics, which can support gut health.
- Hemp Seeds
- What is it? Nutty little seeds from the hemp plant.
- Why it’s amazing: Great for smoothies, salads, and creamy hemp milk.
- Health benefits: High in omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, plus protein and fiber.
- Coconut Aminos
- What is it? A soy-free alternative to soy sauce.
- Why it’s amazing: Slightly sweet and less salty—perfect for marinades and stir-fries.
- Health benefits: Contains lower sodium than soy sauce and offers trace nutrients.
- Seitan
- What is it? A protein-rich “wheat meat” made from vital wheat gluten.
- Why it’s amazing: Perfect for hearty dishes like vegan steaks, stir-fries, or kebabs.
- Health benefits: High in protein, with minimal fat.
- Smoked Paprika
- What is it? A spice made from dried, smoked peppers.
- Why it’s amazing: Adds a smoky depth to everything from roasted veggies to vegan mac and cheese.
- Health benefits: Rich in antioxidants like beta-carotene, which supports skin and eye health.
- Tahini
- What is it? A creamy paste made from ground sesame seeds.
- Why it’s amazing: Great for dressings, dips (hello, hummus!), or desserts.
- Health benefits: High in healthy fats, calcium, magnesium, and iron, all of which support strong bones and energy levels.
With these incredible ingredients at your fingertips, vegan cooking becomes a treasure trove of creativity and flavor. Whether you’re whipping up aquafaba meringues, transforming jackfruit into BBQ, or harnessing the umami-packed magic of miso, these hidden gems prove that plant-based meals are anything but ordinary. So, grab a few of these underrated staples, and get ready to make some kitchen magic—your taste buds (and the planet) will thank you!
