Get creative in the kitchen with these vegan cooking hacks

Being vegan doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice flavor or creativity in the kitchen. In fact, there are plenty of tricks and tricks that can help you prepare delicious and creative vegan meals. Whether you’re a seasoned vegan cook or just starting out on your plant-based journey, these cooking hacks will inspire you to get creative in the kitchen.

1. Use nutritional yeast for cheese flavour

Nutritional yeast is an essential ingredient in vegan cuisine. This crusty yellow ingredient has a cheesy, nutty flavor that can add depth to any dish. Sprinkle it over pasta, popcorn, or roasted vegetables to enhance the flavor. You can also use it to make a creamy vegan cheese sauce or drizzle it over homemade pizza for a delicious cheesy flavor.

2. Make your own dairy-free milk

Instead of buying expensive dairy-free milk, you can easily make your own at home. All you need is a blender, some nuts or seeds, water, and a nut milk bag. You can make almond milk, cashew milk, oat milk, or any other type of dairy-free milk you prefer. Making your own milk allows you to control the ingredients and flavor, and it’s also more environmentally friendly because it reduces packaging waste.

3. Reuse leftover vegetables

Don’t let leftover vegetables go to waste. Instead, repurpose them into new and exciting dishes. Roast leftover vegetables and add them to a salad, blend them into soup, or stuff them into a wrap. You can also add them to stir-fries or use them as a topping for homemade pizza. Getting creative with leftovers not only reduces food waste, but also saves time and money in the kitchen.

4. Use aquafaba as an egg substitute

Aquafaba, the liquid left over from a can of chickpeas, is a magical ingredient that can be used as an egg substitute in vegan baking. Whisk aquafaba until frothy, then use it in place of eggs in recipes for things like meringues, macaroons, and even mayonnaise. Aquafaba is a versatile and inexpensive ingredient that can elevate your vegan baking.

5. Experiment with different types of flour

Don’t be afraid to experiment with different types of flour in baking and cooking. There are many alternative flours that are gluten-free, such as almond flour, coconut flour, chickpea flour, and buckwheat flour. Each type of flour has its own unique flavor and texture, so don’t be afraid to get creative and try new combinations in your recipes.

6. Blend cashews for creamy sauces

Cashews are the secret to making rich, creamy vegan sauces. Soak raw cashews in water, then blend with spices and liquids for a silky smooth sauce. You can use cashew cream in recipes for things like pasta sauce, creamy soups, or even as a base for vegan cheese. It is a versatile ingredient that allows you to prepare creamy and delicious dishes without using dairy products.

7. Make your own vegan butter

Believe it or not, you can make your own vegan butter at home. All you need is a mixture of coconut oil, olive oil, and a few other ingredients. Making your own vegan butter gives you control over flavor and ingredients, and is a fun and satisfying kitchen project. Plus, it’s a great way to reduce your reliance on store-bought vegan butter substitutes, which can be expensive and full of additives.

8. Get creative with tofu

Tofu is a versatile, protein-rich ingredient that can be used in a wide range of dishes. Experiment with different types of tofu, such as silken, firm, or extra-firm, and try using it in recipes for things like tofu scrambles, stir-fries, soups, and even desserts. Tofu can be flavored and cooked in countless ways, making it a staple for any vegetarian cook.

9. Pickle everything

Pickling is a great way to add flavor and interest to your meals. You can pickle any vegetable, fruit, or even some proteins like tofu or tempeh. Pickled ingredients add a refreshing, citrusy flavor to dishes and can be used in salads, sandwiches, or as a garnish. Experiment with different types of pickling liquids and seasonings to create unique and delicious pickles.

10. Always keep a stock of frozen fruits and vegetables

Frozen fruits and vegetables are a convenient and cost-effective way to ensure you always have ingredients on hand to prepare quick and easy meals. Keep your freezer stocked with things like frozen berries for smoothies, frozen spinach for soups and sauces, and frozen mixed vegetables for stir-fries and casseroles. Frozen produce is just as nutritious as fresh produce and can be a lifesaver on busy days when you don’t have time to buy fresh ingredients.

These vegan cooking hacks are just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to creativity in the kitchen. With a little experimentation and creativity, you can create a wide range of delicious and satisfying vegetarian meals that will impress even the most steadfast meat-eater. So roll up your sleeves, put on your chef hat, and get ready to take your vegan cooking skills to the next level!