Get ready to say “mmm” a lot, friends. Because plant-based yogurt is here to change the game. Yep, you heard that right. Vegan yogurt is a thing, and it’s creamy, delicious, and guilt-free. So, why not give it a spin? Whether you’re vegan, lactose intolerant, or just looking to mix things up, there’s a plant-based yogurt out there for you. Let’s dive in and explore the creamy, dreamy world of vegan yogurt alternatives!
Why Vegan Yogurt, Though?
Over the past few decades, there’s been a significant shift towards plant-based diets. Whether it’s for ethical reasons, health benefits, or just because we love animals and want to do our part to reduce animal suffering, more and more people are choosing to live a vegan or vegetarian lifestyle. And that means we need dairy-free and cruelty-free alternatives to our favorite foods.
Enter: vegan yogurt. Made with plant-based milk like soy, almond, coconut, oat, or cashew, vegan yogurt is a delicious and nutritious option for anyone looking to add more plant-based foods to their diet. Plus, many plant-based milks are fortified with essential nutrients like calcium, Vitamin D, and protein, making vegan yogurt a powerhouse of nutrition. Bonus: if you have lactose sensitivities, you can enjoy vegan yogurt without any tummy troubles. Win-win!
The Best Vegan Yogurt Alternatives to Try
Now that you know vegan yogurt is a thing, and it’s super awesome, let’s talk about the different types of plant-based yogurts out there and what makes them so special. Whether you’re a fan of soy milk, almond milk, coconut milk, oat milk, or cashew milk, there’s a vegan yogurt option for you. Let’s get to know them.
Soy Yogurt
Soy yogurt is a classic. It’s creamy, it’s dreamy, it’s filling, and it’s got a nice, subtle flavor that pairs well with both sweet and savory dishes. Soy yogurt is also high in protein, making it a great option for vegans and vegetarians looking to increase their protein intake. Plus, soy milk is super versatile in the kitchen, so you can use soy yogurt in all sorts of recipes, from baking to savory dishes.
Almond Milk Yogurt
Almond milk yogurt is smooth, refreshing, and lightly sweet. It’s also calcium-fortified, so it’s a great option for anyone looking to increase their calcium intake. Almond milk yogurt has a mild flavor, so it pairs well with both sweet and savory dishes. You can use it in smoothies, as a base for sauces and dressings, or even as a creamer for your morning coffee.
Coconut Milk Yogurt
Coconut milk yogurt is rich, indulgent, and has a unique tropical flavor that sets it apart from other plant-based yogurts. It’s also dairy-free, so it’s a great option for anyone who can’t have dairy. Coconut milk yogurt comes in unsweetened, plain varieties, as well as flavored options like mango, pineapple, and vanilla. It’s perfect for topping off a bowl of fruit or enjoying as a dessert on its own.
Oat Milk Yogurt
Oat milk yogurt is creamy and naturally sweet, making it a great option for anyone with nut allergies (or just because it’s delicious). Oat milk yogurt is also high in fiber, which can help keep you full and satisfied throughout the day. If you’re watching your calories, look for lower-fat or unsweetened varieties. You can use oat milk yogurt in smoothies, parfaits, or as a base for sauces and dressings.
Cashew Yogurt
Cashew yogurt is luxuriously thick and creamy, with a rich and velvety texture that’s hard to resist. It’s also versatile, making it a great option for both sweet and savory dishes. You can use cashew yogurt in savory dips, like hummus or vegan spinach dip, or in sweet dishes like smoothie bowls and fruity parfaits.
Ways to Enjoy Your New Favorite Food
Now that you know the deets on the different types of vegan yogurts, it’s time to talk about how to enjoy them. Whether you’re a breakfast person or a snacker, there are so many delicious ways to incorporate vegan yogurt into your daily routine.
Breakfast Ideas
One of the most classic ways to enjoy vegan yogurt is in a parfait. Simply layer granola, your favorite plant-based yogurt, and fresh fruit of your choice in a glass or bowl. You can also top it off with honey or agave nectar for an extra-sweet treat. Another option is to make a smoothie bowl. Blend your favorite fruits, veggies, and a scoop of vegan yogurt together, and then top it off with more fruit, nuts, and seeds of your choice.
Snack and Dessert Options
Vegan yogurt is also a great base for dips and spreads. You can make a savory chickpea yogurt dip or a sweet almond butter yogurt dip for fruit. You can also freeze the dip in a piping bag to make vegan yogurt pops. Another delicious dessert option is to make a fruity parfait with layers of granola, vegan yogurt, and fresh fruit. You can even add a few drops of chocolate sauce or honey on top for an extra-special treat.
Cooking and Baking with Vegan Yogurt
One of the best things about vegan yogurt is that you can use it as a 1:1 substitute for dairy yogurt in any recipe. Try using it in sauces, dressings, and baked goods to enhance the creaminess and add extra protein and nutrients. You can also use it in savory dishes, like vegan yogurt-based dips, vegan cheese sauces, and vegan yogurt marinades.
How to Choose and Store Your Vegan Yogurt
Now that you know how delicious and versatile vegan yogurt is, it’s time to talk about how to choose the right one for you and how to store it. When it comes to plant-based yogurts, there are a few things to consider. First, think about any dietary restrictions or allergies you have. Do you have a nut allergy? Then you might want to stick to soy, oat, or coconut milk yogurt. Are you watching your calories? Look for lower-fat or unsweetened varieties. Finally, take a look at the ingredient list and nutritional information. Are there any added sugars? How much protein does it have? Remember, the fewer ingredients, the better.
Once you’ve picked out your favorite plant-based yogurt, it’s time to enjoy it! Most plant-based yogurts need to be refrigerated, so be sure to keep them in the fridge until you’re ready to use them. Unopened, most plant-based yogurts will last for about a week in the fridge. Once you’ve opened the container, be sure to consume it within a few days to ensure freshness. You can also freeze plant-based yogurt in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Just let it thaw in the fridge overnight before using.