Introducting High-Protein Vegan Delicacies
Talking about high-protein diet, one typically envisions a plate filled with poultry or beef. However, this paradigm is gradually altering thanks to the myriad of high protein vegan options available today. Vegan sources of protein are diverse, healthy, and potentially environment-friendly. Let’s explore this burgeoning plant-based world, providing an all-encompassing guide to the extravagant vegan protein-source arena.
Discovering the Power of Legumes
The legume family, comprising lentils, chickpeas, beans, peas, and many more, are stalwarts in the high protein vegan list. A cup of cooked lentils delivers an impressive 18 grams of protein. These fiber-filled powerhouses also offer a significant dose of iron and potassium.
Champions from the Seed World
Chia seeds, flaxseeds, and hemp seeds, often referred to as ‘super seeds,’ are replete with protein. A tablespoon of hemp seeds added to your morning smoothie or salad contributes 5.3 grams of protein, alongside significant Omega-3 fatty acids, and fiber.
Quinoa – The Gluten-Free Powerhouse
Incorporate a boost of protein in your diet with quinoa. This gluten-free pseudo-cereal contains all nine essential amino acids. A cup of cooked quinoa carries 8 grams of protein.
All Hail the Mighty Edamame
Edamame, baby soybeans, are an excellent vegan protein source. One cup of cooked edamame offers 18.5 grams of protein. These jade hued gems also contain vitamins C and A, calcium, and iron.
The Magic of Nut Butters
Lend your diet a punch of protein with nut butters. Almond and peanut butter are a nutritious choice. Two tablespoons of almond butter account for 7 grams of protein, while the same amount of peanut butter offers 8 grams, along with heart-healthy fats.
Eating Your Greens
Leafy green vegetables like spinach and broccoli are treasure troves of protein. One cup of cooked spinach delivers 5 grams of protein, while a similar amount of broccoli provides 4.6 grams.
The Tremendous Tofu and Tempeh
Tofu, the versatile soy product, offers around 10 grams of protein per half-cup serving. Its textured counterpart, tempeh, is fermented tofu packed with protein – around 15 grams per half-cup serving.
Unleashing the Potential of Whole Grains
Opt for whole grains like oatmeal, brown rice, and whole wheat bread. These high fiber options offer more protein than their refined counterparts. A cup of cooked brown rice delivers 5 grams of protein.
Sprouted Grains – Health Amplified
Sprouting is known to amplify the nutritional content of grains. The sprouting process declines antinutrient levels, which naturally elevates protein content. Bread made from sprouted grains is hence, a preferred choice amongst vegans pursuing a high-protein diet.
The Sumptuous Seitan
Seitan, also known as ‘wheat meat,’ is a popular vegan protein source. Made from gluten, the main protein in wheat, a three-ounce serving of seitan contains about 21 grams of protein.
The Nutritious Nut Army
Almonds, peanuts, and pistachios are great vegan protein alternatives. Consuming a quarter-cup of almonds gives 7.3 grams of protein, while an equal amount of pistachios provides 5.8 grams.
The Versatile Vegetable Pea Protein
Pea protein, derived from yellow split peas, offers around 8 grams of protein per 1/4 cup. It is extensively used in protein supplements and energy bars.
Inclusion of Plant-Based Protein Powders
Plant-based protein powders derived from yellow peas, hemp seeds, and brown rice, position at the top of the protein ladder. They can be easily blended in smoothies, shakes, or breakfast bowls, making a convenient high-protein vegan option.
To summarize, being vegan doesn’t limit you to a protein-deficient world. Instead, it opens doors to a realm filled with exciting, nutritious, and environment-friendly protein sources. The increase in diverse high-protein vegan alternatives shows how one can enjoy a protein-rich plate without resorting to animal-based sources.