Best Vegan Protein Sources

    Best-Vegan-Protein-Sources

    Making the switch to veganism is a pretty big lifestyle change and that comes lots of unlearning and relearning. One question that seems to be on everyone’s mind is where do you get your protein as a vegan? Most conventional protein sources are all animal based but that doesn’t mean you’ll miss out on protein as a vegan. 

    The thing is, there are still super plants that are rich in protein. Here are some of the best vegan protein sources for you to enjoy in this new journey.

    Best Vegan Protein Sources

    Here are my top go-to protein sources as a vegan, and I can assure you they are worth it and get the job done perfectly.

    1. Lentils

    Lentils

    These tiny legumes are arguably the best source of protein for vegans. You get about 18 grams of protein for every cooked cup of lentils, which is extraordinary.

    Lentils are also affordable and versatile, so you can use them in soups, salads, curries, and many other dishes.

    2. Chickpeas

    Chickpeas

    Just like lentils, chickpeas are also legumes that are a great source of plant based protein, and it also sneaks in a decent amount of dietary fibre.

    For every cooked cup of chickpeas, you get about 15 grams of protein. They can be roasted and eaten or also used to make stews, falafel, and my favourite, chickpea pasta.

    3. Tofu

    Tofu

    Tofu is made from soybeans curds, and it has become popular over the years. Some see it as a meat alternative and I understand them as it is very rich in protein.

    You get 20 grams of protein for every cup of tofu that you take. It is nutty and firm, and is known for its versatility, so you can use it in a lot of recipes and it won’t look out of place.

    4. Quinoa

    Quinoa

    Quinoa might be the only grain that I know that is a great source of protein, and not just that, it is also a complete protein as it has the 9 essential amino acids.

    With quinoa, you get about 8 grams of protein for every cooked cup alongside 5 grams of fibre, which will come in handy. It also cooks in a very short time, so it can always be your quick go-to.

    5. Beans

    Beans

    When you take kidney, black, navy, or pinto beans, you’re taking in a decent chunk of protein unknowingly. Depending on the type, you should be expecting around 15 grams of protein for every cooked cup.

    Beans are a very affordable way of reaching your daily protein goals, and they are known for being easy to prepare.

    6. Chia seeds

    Chia-seed

    Chia seeds are a superfood, it is known for its numerous health benefits that people tend to forget that it is also a great source of protein.

    These chia seeds are the true definition of tiny but mighty; they offer about 5 grams of protein per 2 tablespoons, and if you can chuck up a full cup, you’d be getting close to 40 grams.

    7. Hemp seeds

    Hemp-seeds

    And we have another seed here, hemp seeds are a complete source of protein as they have all nine essential amino acids present. They have a rice nutritional profile and even offer more health benefits all round.

    With 3 tablespoons, you get about 9 grams of protein.

    8. Tempeh

    Tempeh

    Tempeh is made from fermented soybeans, and it has been used as a plant-based meat alternative for years. 

    Tempeh is rich in protein, with about 30 grams of protein in every cup of tempeh. It is also a great source of fibers and other essential amino acids.

    9. Seitan

    Seitan

    Seitan is a plant based meat alternative made from vital wheat gluten, the protein found in wheat. It has a chewy, meat like texture. Thanks to its ability to absorb flavors, this is also quite versatile and can be used in different ways.

    Seitan boasts about 63 grams of protein for every cup, which is an extremely impressive amount.

    10. Green peas

    Green-peas

    This just had to make the list, green peas are an affordable and readily available protein source for vegans. 

    You get about 9 grams of protein for every cooked cup which is not spectacular but the catch is that you just always add this to any dish you’re making to get extra protein in the bag.

     

    Getting proteins from plants is not a hard task; apart from those on the list, there are still more. Almonds, edamame, pumpkin seeds, oats, nooch, etc, are also great vegan protein sources for you to consider. So the next time you’re asked where you get your protein as a vegan, make sure to share this post with them.

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