One of about 1,500 species of tiny, single-celled fungi. Edible torula yeast grows on wood alcohol. After being inactivated and dried, it looks like a tan powder and can be packaged and sold in health and nutrition stores. It adds a smoky umami flavor to food.
What is torula yeast?
Torula yeast is also known as Candida primogeniture. This yeast is a by-product of the paper industry. Torula yeast grows in the waste sulfite liquid in the wood pulp during the process of turning wood into paper. From there, it can be removed and dried into a powder.
When dried, torula yeast is tan in color and tastes slightly meaty. It may have negative connotations because it was used in dog food but is now added to human food. Its rich flavor and umami flavor make it a popular alternative to MSG.
Torula yeast and other yeasts
Torula yeast is a deactivated yeast. The better-known type of inactivated yeast is nutritional yeast, which is also killed by heat and can no longer produce carbon dioxide or reproduce. It does retain its flavor and nutrition. Therefore, nutritional yeast can be used to add protein to foods or shakes. It is also a common seasoning. There are many different strains of killed yeast, and each strain tastes a little different. Flavors include nutty, creamy and rich.
Some popular active yeasts include brewer's yeast and baker's yeast. Brewer's yeast produces carbon dioxide, which is used to brew beer. It is also a great source of essential nutrients such as protein, B vitamins and chromium. Baker's yeast is a similar organism that feeds on sugar to produce carbon dioxide. It is the ingredient that makes bread leaven.
Uses of round yeast
Because torula yeast is rich in glutamic acid, it imparts a smoky, salty, umami flavor to foods. As veganism and vegetarianism grow in popularity, food manufacturers are starting to use torula yeast to mimic the taste of meat (such as in veggie burgers) without adding any animal products. Like all yeasts, Torula yeast adds significant nutrients to food. It can also thicken foods like protein shakes and dips.
It is often used as an additive in pet food due to its meat-like taste, and is sometimes used as a supplement for puppies due to its high content of nutrients such as zinc, B vitamins, and amino acids.
How to cook with torula yeast
Torula yeast is sold in powder form and can be sprinkled on foods. It can be mixed into sauces or dressings, or sprinkled over cooked grains, vegetables, snacks, popcorn, or other dishes. It adds meaty flavor and is therefore often included in pre-made meatless burgers or meatless sausages.
How does it taste?
Torula yeast has a rich, rich flavor. It's called an umami-rich flavor, and it's called a salty flavor. Since this yeast is consumed in powder form, it needs to be added to other foods to enjoy it.
Torula yeast substitute
Torula yeast has also become a popular alternative to the flavor enhancer monosodium glutamate (MSG). Torula yeast has the same effects as MSG on many different foods. It ensures that flavor and aroma are not lost during cooking. It can also improve the texture and flavor of many foods, from sauces to chips to soups.
If you don't want to use torula yeast, consider adding MSG, but be aware of the risks. Another option is to use nutritional yeast, which has a less meaty flavor. Or skip the yeast altogether.
Round Yeast Recipe
It might be easier to find a recipe that includes nutritional yeast and then swap the yeast for torula yeast for a richer flavor. Try these:
- Easy Vegan Nutritional Yeast Pasta Recipe
- Vegan Lentil Meatballs with Gluten-Free Flour
- Vegan and Vegan Miso Gravy
Where to buy torula yeast
Torula yeast can be found in some health food stores and online retailers. It is sold in powder form in resealable bags or jars.
storage
If you plan to use your yeast within two months, you can store it in a cool, dark indoor storage room. For long-term storage, store in the refrigerator for up to two years. Avoid moisture, so store torula yeast in an airtight container.
