If there’s one ingredient that can turn your everyday meal into something downright irresistible — it’s nutritional yeast.
But what exactly is it, and how do you use it?
The name doesn't exactly sound very appealing, we know... But hear us out!
Nutritional yeast has many uses beyond just sprinkling it on popcorn.
Lovingly nicknamed “nooch” by its fans, this flaky, golden powder is a secret weapon for plant-based eaters and flavor enthusiasts alike. It’s nutty, cheesy, and savory, packed with nutrients, and completely dairy-free.
Vegan or not, it is a fantastic ingredient to have in your pantry!
Whether you’re new to nutritional yeast or already have a jar sitting in your pantry, this guide will help you understand why it’s so special—and show you ten delicious, creative ways to use it.
the deets on nutritional yeast
What is Nutritional Yeast?
Nutritional yeast is made from a species of yeast called Saccharomyces cerevisiae. Unlike the yeast used for baking or brewing, nutritional yeast is deactivated through heat, meaning it won’t make bread rise or ferment anything.
Once it’s grown (usually on molasses or sugar beet substrate), harvested, and dried, it’s turned into delicate flakes or fine powder with a unique umami-rich flavor. This natural, “cheesy” savoriness makes it a staple in many plant-based kitchens.
Is Nutritional Yeast Good For You?
Many consider nutritional yeast a superfood. It is an excellent vegan and soy-free supplement that provides many vitamins and minerals.
It may help boost immunity, lower cholesterol, and provide other health benefits. It contains essential B vitamins and minerals and is also an excellent dietary source of fiber and protein!
Nooch is naturally low in fat and carbohydrates but relatively high in protein. It is a complete protein that provides all of the essential amino acids.
1.5 tablespoons provide 8 grams of protein, 5 grams of carbohydrates, and 3 grams of fiber.
Yeast contains the beneficial form of soluble fiber called beta-glucan, which offers unique health benefits, as well as antioxidants such as glutathione and selenomethionine.
What Does Nutritional Yeast Taste Like?
Nooch has a naturally nutty and tangy cheesy flavor while being completely dairy-free. This is why it's often used instead of cheese by vegans.
With its deep, rich flavor, a small amount really does go a long way.
How to store and keep it fresh
Nutritional yeast is shelf-stable and easy to store, but its delicate flavor and nutrients can fade if not kept properly.
Storage tips:
- Keep it in an airtight container, away from light and moisture.
- Store in a cool, dark place — your pantry or cupboard is perfect.
- It can last up to two years, but for best flavor, try to use it within six to twelve months of opening.
- If you live in a humid area, consider storing it in the fridge to prevent clumping.
You’ll know your nutritional yeast has gone stale if it loses its cheesy aroma or turns darker in color.
12 WAYS TO USE NUTRITIONAL YEAST
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1. Season tofu scramble
Tofu scramble is a staple breakfast dish for many vegans. Tofu scramble recipes often use nutritional yeast to create a cheesy flavor.
Try this recipe:
Crumble your dried tofu block into a pan with oil, add 1 Tbs McKay's "chicken" style seasoning, 2 Tbs of nutritional yeast, and 1 pinch of turmeric to the pan and stir until well combined and tofu is cooked to your liking.
2. Pesto and dips
Traditionally, pesto is made with Parmesan cheese, but it can also be made with nutritional yeast! It will keep the yummy, cheesy flavor and save you money (cashews are pricey!)
Simply replace the parmesan with the nooch and add a teaspoon of oil or water to make it moister.
Also, try blending it into:
- Creamy tahini dressing – tahini, lemon, garlic, water, nutritional yeast.
- Plant-based ranch – cashews, herbs, garlic, nooch, and lemon juice.
- Hummus upgrade – stir a spoonful into classic hummus for an extra flavor dimension.
This plant-based spinach and artichoke dip also gets an extra punch of protein and flavor by adding nutritional yeast.
3. As a coating
Use nutritional yeast with breadcrumbs or flour to make a crunchy coating when deep-frying or grilling food.
It's so tasty on fried tofu or tempeh!
Try this Simple Vegan Fried Tofu Recipe, using nutritional yeast and all-purpose flour to create a delicious fried coating.
4. Vegan burgers and "meats"
Next time you make vegan burger patties, add some nutritional yeast.
The burgers will taste richer and have a deeper flavor.
And if you are feeling like a master chef, add a few tablespoons of nutritional yeast to veggie meatballs, chickpea nuggets, seitan, and more!
5. Cashew "cheese" sauce
Nutritional yeast is a common ingredient in cashew cheese or cashew cream recipes, adding a cheesy twist.
Blend together:
- 1 cup cashews (soaked 2–3 hours)
- ¾ cup water
- 3 tablespoons nutritional yeast
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 garlic clove
- ½ teaspoon salt
Blend until smooth and creamy — and voilà! You’ve got a rich, dairy-free cheese sauce.
6. Cheesy pasta
No need to give up your favorite creamy, cheesy pasta or mac-and-cheese!
Nutritional yeast often mimics the taste of cheese and is a great replacement.
Try these Mac-and Cheese Cups to get a taste of what is possible! Or this yummy eggless pasta with a creamy mushroom-tahini sauce.
7. Soups and broths
Add 1–2 tablespoons to soups or stews near the end of cooking. It deepens flavor and enhances the savory notes, much like adding Parmesan to a sauce.
Try it in:
- Lentil soup
- Potato or butternut soup
- Tomato-based stews
- Homemade ramen or miso broth
8. Season Roasted Veggies or Potatoes
After roasting your favorite vegetables—like Brussels sprouts, broccoli, carrots, or potatoes—toss them while still warm with olive oil, sea salt, and a sprinkle of nutritional yeast.
You’ll be amazed at how it transforms the flavor into something savory and almost “cheesy.”
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9. Savory Oats or Grain Bowls
Who says oats have to be sweet? Try a bowl of savory oatmeal topped with sautéed mushrooms, spinach, and nutritional yeast.
You can also mix it into cooked quinoa, rice, or millet for a satisfying, high-protein meal.
10. Level Up Snacks and Bakes
Nutritional yeast isn’t just for sauces—try it in baking and snacks!
- Mix into savory granola or roasted nuts for an umami-rich twist.
- Add a spoonful to bread or cracker dough for subtle depth.
- Stir into veggie muffins or biscuits for a cheesy undertone.
For something creative, blend it into your next batch of seasoned breadcrumbs or stuffing mix—it’s a game-changer.
11. Roasted nuts / seeds
After roasting almonds, cashews, pumpkin seeds, etc., toss them while still warm with melted coconut oil, salt, and nutritional yeast to get a “cheesy nut” snack.
12. And anything else!
Nutritional yeast is an excellent ingredient for adding extra flavor to any dish and increasing its protein content.
Add this versatile ingredient to these to make them even better:
- Baked potato chips
- Nachos
- Vegan sour cream
- Popcorn
- Creamy risotto
- Roasted chickpeas
- Vegan hollandaise sauce
- Kale chips
- Salads
- Avocado
Discover Nutritional Yeast at Country Life Foods
Don't be afraid to try this super ingredient, even if you are not vegan or plant-based. It's for everyone and pairs so well with many other ingredients.
It will indeed take your dish from ordinary to extraordinary!
At Country Life Foods, we believe that healthy food should be both nourishing and delicious.
Explore our range of wholesome, plant-based ingredients — including premium nutritional yeast — and stock your pantry with the staples that make natural eating simple, satisfying, and full of flavor.
