Basil seeds v/s gelatin: Which one to choose?
What's the story
Basil seeds are the new gelatin, at least in the world of healthy eating.
These small seeds puff up and create a gel-like substance when soaked in water, which makes them a great vegan substitute for thickening and adding texture to all kinds of recipes.
High in fiber, they also come with health perks like better digestion and blood sugar management.
Beverages
A refreshing addition to beverages
To use basil seeds in drinks, simply soak one tablespoon in water for approximately 30 minutes.
Then, add them to lemonades, smoothies, or coconut water for a fun and healthy twist.
The seeds expand and offer a slightly crunchy texture that contrasts nicely with the liquid, amplifying the health benefits and introducing a unique texture to your beverages.
Desserts
Creative desserts with basil seeds
Basil seeds elevate desserts by providing texture and health benefits without altering flavors.
They're perfect in puddings, parfaits, or as a crunchy topping for ice cream. Combine them with coconut milk and your favorite sweeteners for a delicious vegan pudding.
Their neutral flavor and adaptability make them a secret weapon for dessert creativity.
Soups
Thickening soups naturally
If you want to naturally thicken your soups without resorting to flour or cornstarch, consider using basil seeds.
When pre-soaked and added to your soups a few minutes before serving, they thicken the broth and provide a nutrient boost, including fiber and omega-three fatty acids.
This trick is perfect for lighter vegetable soups or broths where you don't want to change the flavor but crave a bit more body.
Dressings
Enhancing salad dressings
Basil seeds can also add a unique twist to your salad dressings.
By soaking them beforehand and whisking into vinaigrettes or creamy dressings, they act as a natural thickener, emulsifying the mixture while adding a subtle crunchiness that complements the textures of your salads.
This not only enhances nutrition but also adds a touch of culinary sophistication with their gel-like appearance.
Vegan cheese
Homemade vegan cheese alternatives
If you are looking for dairy-free alternatives, you can now make your vegan cheese using basil seeds!
When soaked and blended with nuts (think cashews or almonds) along with nutritional yeast and spices, basil seeds help create a cheese-like consistency ideal for spreading on crackers or adding to vegan recipes that require a cheesy texture - all without the use of any animal products.