Know the benefits of wheat germ
What's the story
Wheat germ, the tiny embryo of the wheat kernel, is a vegan superfood that often goes unnoticed.
Discarded during the refining process of wheat grain, this nutritional powerhouse boasts high levels of protein, fiber, and essential fatty acids.
Plus, it's a fantastic source of vitamin E and folic acid.
This article explores five creative ways to incorporate wheat germ into vegan dishes, significantly boosting their nutritional profile.
Morning mix
Boost your breakfast bowl
Adding just two tablespoons of wheat germ to your morning oatmeal or cereal will supercharge your day with essential nutrients.
Its pleasantly nutty flavor pairs well with both sweet and savory breakfast bowls, adding a satisfying crunch while fortifying your meal with vitamins B1 and B3 to support energy metabolism.
And, if you prefer a smoother texture, simply stir it in before adding any liquid to your bowl.
Smoothie sprinkle
Elevate your smoothies
Want to level up your smoothies? Just toss a tablespoon of wheat germ into the blender before you hit that blend button.
It not only thickens up your smoothie but also adds a nice little crunch and a big-time nutritional boost.
The omega-3 fatty acids in wheat germ are great for keeping your heart healthy and your skin glowing.
Bake boost
Wholesome baking ingredient
Add a boost of nutrition to your baked goods by substitifying up to 10% of flour with wheat germ.
Whether you're baking bread, muffins, or pancakes, this swap not only increases the nutritional value by adding fiber but also creates a pleasant texture contrast.
And, its high vitamin E content is great for immune support.
Salad sprinkle
Salad topping extraordinaire
Take your salads to the next level by adding a sprinkle of toasted wheat germ right before serving.
This adds a delicious crunch to your dish while also supercharging it with nutrition.
Wheat germ is packed with magnesium, crucial for muscle function, and potassium, key for maintaining healthy blood pressure.
Its unique texture and nutritional powerhouse status make it a fantastic salad enhancer, adding essential nutrients without sacrificing flavor.
Burger bind
Homemade vegan burgers
When preparing homemade vegan burgers or meatballs, include two tablespoons of wheat germ per cup of mixture as a binder. This ingredient ensures everything holds together well during cooking.
In addition to enhancing the patties' stability, it also boosts their protein content.
This means every bite is not only more delicious but also more fulfilling from a nutritional standpoint.