If you’re a vegan who loves experimentation, you need aquafaba in your life. If you haven’t yet heard the buzz about it in the vegan community, it’s time to let you in on this new game-changing secret that’s hiding right under your nose.
What is Aquafaba? (Hint: it’s not a trendy new version of water aerobics.)
The term, which was coined by vegan software engineer Goose Wohlt in 2015, simply means “bean water” in Latin, and while that may not sound particularly appetizing, it’s a magical plant-based cooking ingredient that’s most likely already in your kitchen. The most commonly used source of aquafaba is canned chickpeas, but any bean (and even your package of tofu in the fridge) will do the trick. It serves as an excellent substitute for classic recipes that call for egg whites, but the possibilities are endless. While most egg replacers can be limiting in their substitution abilities, aquafaba is truly a tour de force in binding, emulsifying, thickening, and foaming with no shell-cracking required. It has taken the vegan community by storm, with innovative chefs all over the world taking full advantage of its many uses to build recipes to win the hearts of even the most discerning omnivores.
If you’re looking for some easy new ways to take your kitchen game to the next level, here are our favorite ways to use aquafaba.
Make a Macaron or Meringue
If you’re a Parisian at heart and love your French sweets, use aquafaba to create an Instagram-worthy meringue or macaron to enjoy with an afternoon espresso. Bon appetit! Try this delish recipe from The Blenderist. Also, see our recipe for aquafaba meringue.
Shake it in Your Cocktail
Impress your friends at your next cocktail party by creating inventive craft cocktails with aquafaba. It’s great for any drink that typically calls for egg whites, and those mixology skills are sure to wow both vegan and non-vegans alike. Check out how to use it in cocktails here.
Whip it Good
You don’t need an excuse to make vegan whipped cream when aquafaba makes it so incredibly easy. A batch can be made within minutes, and it can be topped on cakes, ice cream, fruit, waffles, or crepes. Or just eat it with a spoon. The sky’s the limit! Here’s how.
Munch on Marshmallows
If you live for sitting around the campfire (or your living room) with a plate of toasty s’mores, use aquafaba to make this classic treat even more delicious with homemade marshmallows. Take one bite, and you’ll want to grab a guitar and start singing kumbaya under the stars.
Make a Mousse
Light and rich, yet rich and luxurious. What’s more decadent than chocolate mousse? Treat yourself to a cruelty-free update to this delectable classic with aquafaba.
Create a Better Butter
Channel your inner farmer by creating your own wholesome, creamy butter. While making your own butter sounds intimidating, using aquafaba makes it a breeze and there’s no cow or churning required. Here’s how.
Say Cheese
Cashew cheese is a vegan dream, but if you’re looking to mix up your cheese substitute, try adding aquafaba, which acts as an excellent emulsifier that gives it a great texture for melty cheeses like mozzarella. Vegan pizza party, anyone? Try this Mozzarella Aquafaba Cheese.
Boost Your Brunch
Creating a lighter than air, melts in your mouth waffle can sometimes be challenging, given that many egg replacers have a tendency to add weight to batters. If you’re someone who dreams of this classic breakfast that tastes like childhood, aquafaba is the perfect fix. Don’t forget to top it with a generous helping of vegan whip! Enjoy these aquafaba waffles.
Have you tried aquafaba? What are your favorite dishes to make? Tell us in the comments!
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Whisk Away: Pro Vegan Baking Tips from Blossom Bakery
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Photo: Pixabay
