Let’s dive into the exciting world of our Homemade Vegan Egg Yolk Recipe! This versatile ingredient is a game-changer in plant-based cooking. Simply blend together soft tofu, nutritional yeast, turmeric, and a pinch of salt until smooth and creamy. Use it as a replacement for traditional egg yolks in recipes like vegan mayo and hollandaise sauce or even to top off your avocado toast. It’s a simple yet essential addition to your kitchen repertoire!
WHY IT WORKS?
- Harnesses nutritional yeast and black salt for a taste and aroma reminiscent of authentic egg yolks.
- Incorporates turmeric, giving it a vibrant, natural color without artificial additives.
- Easy to blend with common kitchen ingredients, ensuring a smooth, rich consistency.
- Perfect for vegan diets, offering a plant-based alternative to a classic ingredient.
- Enhances a variety of favorite dishes, from breakfast to dinner, with its versatile flavor profile.
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Finding a vegan egg yolk recipe that truly rivals the taste and texture of traditional egg yolks can feel like a daunting quest. For years, my kitchen experiments often ended in disappointment—either the flavor was off, or the texture just didn’t hold up. That’s until I stumbled upon a game-changer recipe.
This discovery wasn’t just about substituting an ingredient but about recreating those cherished breakfast moments without compromising ethics or taste.
The key lies in understanding the unique blend of ingredients that mimic egg yolks’ rich, creamy essence while being entirely plant-based.
This vegan egg yolk recipe is a testament to culinary innovation and a beacon for those navigating the vegan lifestyle, searching for that perfect blend of nostalgia and innovation on their plates.
What Is Vegan Egg Yolk?
Vegan egg yolk is a plant-based alternative designed to mimic traditional egg yolks’ flavor, color, and texture without using any animal products.
It is typically made from a blend of natural ingredients such as nutritional yeast for a savory taste, turmeric for color, and various thickeners like agar-agar or tapioca starch to achieve the desired consistency.
This innovative concoction offers a cruelty-free option for vegans and those with egg allergies, enabling them to enjoy dishes that require the unique qualities of egg yolk, from baking to breakfast favorites, without compromising their dietary principles.
Quick Fact – Black salt, commonly used in vegan egg yolk recipes, contains sulfur compounds that help mimic the distinctive taste and aroma of real egg yolks.
Recipe Directions
- Alginate Bath Preparation: In a blender at medium speed, gradually add sodium alginate to distilled water. Blend until fully dissolved. Transfer the mixture to a container and refrigerate overnight to allow air bubbles to dissipate.
- Egg Whites: Whisk together all ingredients in a measuring cup for easy pouring. Set aside.
- Yolk Sauce: Combine all ingredients except black salt in an immersion blender cup or regular blender. Blend until smooth and emulsified. Transfer the sauce to a saucepan and gently heat over medium-low until cornstarch activates and thickens the sauce. Remove from heat, stir in the black salt, and adjust seasoning as necessary. If the emulsion breaks, simply blend again.
- Fried Egg Method: Form yolks by adding a tablespoon of yolk mixture to the alginate bath. Gently cover with alginate to form a sphere. Let sit for 30 seconds, then remove and rinse in cool water. In a non-stick pan over medium heat with olive oil or vegan butter, pour 2-3 Tbsp of egg whites, spreading evenly. Place a yolk in the center. Cook until the whites are crispy around the edges. Season with salt, pepper, and more black salt. Add hot sauce if desired.
- Over Medium Method: Mix 1/2 tsp tapioca starch per tablespoon of the yolk mixture. Combine well. Cook using the fried egg method, but add the yolk after the white has been poured into the pan. Cook until browned, then flip and cook to the desired doneness.
- Old Yolk Method: Combine all yolk ingredients in a bowl or blender. Adjust seasoning and consistency as needed. Use as desired in recipes or with the fried and over medium methods mentioned above.
Variations, Add-Ons, And Toppings
Variations
- Spicy Yolk: To give the yolk mixture a spicy kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few drops of hot sauce.
- Herbed Yolk: For an aromatic twist, add finely chopped herbs such as chives, parsley, or dill to the yolk mixture.
- Cheesy Yolk: Incorporate nutritional yeast into the yolk mixture for a cheesy flavor or blend in a vegan cheese sauce for a creamier texture.
Add-Ons
- Vegan Bacon Bits: Sprinkle over the top for a smoky crunch.
- Sautéed Mushrooms: Offer a savory umami flavor that compliments the richness of the yolk.
- Avocado Slices: Provide a creamy texture and a dose of healthy fats.
- Tomato Slices: Add a fresh and slightly acidic note, balancing the savory yolk.
- Spinach or Kale: These greens are lightly sautéed with garlic, which adds nutrition and color.
Toppings
- Fresh Herbs: A garnish of fresh herbs like cilantro, basil, or parsley adds freshness.
- Sliced Green Onions: Offer a mild, crunchy bite.
- Black Salt (Kala Namak): A final sprinkle enhances the eggy flavour, making it even more authentic.
- Nutritional Yeast: For an extra cheesy flavor and vitamin B12 boost.
- Sriracha or Vegan Aioli: Drizzle on top for a creamy and spicy finish.
Vegetable Substitution
- Mushrooms for Beef: Their meaty texture makes mushrooms perfect for mimicking beef in stews and burgers.
- Cauliflower for Chicken: Cauliflower’s versatility allows it to replace chicken in many recipes, offering a satisfying bite.
- Jackfruit for Pulled Pork: Young green jackfruit can mimic pulled pork’s texture, absorbing flavors well.
- Lentils for Ground Meat: Lentils are a great substitute in dishes like tacos, meatloaf, and Bolognese sauce, providing a hearty, protein-rich base.
- Zucchini for Noodles: Spiralized zucchini offers a low-carb, nutrient-dense alternative to traditional pasta.
- Butternut Squash for Cheese Sauce: Blended butternut squash creates a creamy, vibrant base for vegan egg yolk sauce, perfect for mac ‘n’ cheese.
- Chickpeas for Tuna: Mashed chickpeas work well as a stand-in for tuna in salads and sandwiches, offering a similar texture and protein content.
Quick Tip – Roast vegetables before adding them to soups or stews for a richer flavor in vegan dishes. This enhances their natural sweetness and depth of taste.
Best Side Dishes
- Avocado Toast A classic pairing that balances the richness of the vegan egg with creamy avocado.
- Grilled Asparagus Lightly seasoned and grilled for a smoky, crunchy side.
- Sautéed Spinach And Garlic A simple, flavorful dish that adds greens.
- Roasted Tomatoes Sweet and tangy roasted tomatoes complement the savory notes of the vegan egg.
- Sweet Potato Hash A hearty and colorful addition, perfect for a filling breakfast or brunch.
- Vegan Sausages Adds a protein-packed, smoky flavor to the plate.
- Fresh Fruit Salad A light, refreshing side to balance the savory vegan egg dishes.
- Quinoa Salad A nutritious, protein-rich option that pairs well with the soft texture of vegan eggs.
- Vegan Biscuits Fluffy buttery, ideal for soaking up any extra sauce or yolk.
- Mixed Greens Salad A simple salad with a vinaigrette dressing adds a crisp, fresh element to your meal.
How To Serve?
- On Toast: Drizzle or place the vegan egg yolk atop avocado or tomato toast for a rich breakfast option.
- In Sandwiches: Add a layer of vegan egg yolk in breakfast sandwiches or burgers for extra creaminess and flavor.
- With Vegan Benedicts: Use as a key component in vegan Eggs Benedict, topping English muffins, vegan ham, and spinach.
- Over Roasted Vegetables: Spoon over roasted asparagus, potatoes, or Brussels sprouts for a decadent touch.
- In Ramen Or Noodle Bowls: Add a dollop to vegan ramen or noodle bowls for a burst of savory taste.
- As A Dip: Serve as a dipping sauce for roasted potato wedges, vegan sausage, or vegetable sticks.
- In Vegan Carbonara: Incorporate into pasta dishes like vegan carbonara for a creamy, eggy sauce.
- With Vegan Sushi: Place atop vegan sushi rolls or inari sushi for an innovative twist.
- In Salad Dressings: Whisk into vinaigrettes or creamy dressings for salads, adding a unique flavor.
- As a Topping for Veggie Bowls: Drizzle over grain bowls or veggie bowls to add richness and depth.
Quick Tip – Use arrowroot powder or corn starch to thicken sauces or soups without altering their flavor. Both are gluten-free and work as excellent, neutral thickeners.
Storage & Make Ahead
- Storage: Vegan egg yolks can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. Ensure they are cool before sealing to maintain freshness.
- Make Ahead: Prepare the vegan egg yolk mixture in advance to streamline your meal preparation. It’s great for quick breakfasts or adding a rich component to weekly meals.
Recipe Fact – The key ingredient in vegan egg yolks, black salt, or kala namak, is prized for its sulfuric flavor, which closely mimics the taste of actual egg yolks.
Time-Saving Tips
- Prep Ingredients Ahead: Measure and mix dry ingredients like nutritional yeast, turmeric, and black salt ahead of time. Store in airtight containers for quick use.
- Blend In Bulk: Make a larger batch of the vegan egg yolk mixture and store it in the fridge or freezer. This way, you only need to thaw or reheat what you need.
- Use Immersion Blender: For smoother consistency and quicker cleanup, use an immersion blender directly in the cup or small pot where you mix your ingredients.
- Simplify With Store-bought Alternatives: If time is of the essence, look for store-bought vegan egg substitutes that only require rehydration or simple preparation.
- Cooking In Batches: If you’re using the yolk for multiple servings or recipes, cook them in batches and store them for later use, reheating as necessary.
- Easy Clean Containers: After making the alginate bath, store it in a container with a spout for easy pouring when forming yolks, reducing mess and saving time.
Vegan Egg Yolk Recipe – Satisfying Summer Meal
This vegan egg yolk recipe offers a revolutionary plant-based alternative to traditional egg yolks. It harnesses the power of black salt for its eggy flavor and turmeric’s vibrant color.
Ideal for vegans and those with egg allergies, it promises a guilt-free, versatile ingredient for breakfast classics, baking, and beyond, enriching dishes with its rich, savory taste.
4
servings20
minutes10
minutes70
kcalovernight
Keep the screen of your device on
Ingredients
700 ml 700 DISTILLED Water
5 Tsp 5 Sodium Alginate
1/2 Cup 1/2 Vegan Yogurt (Plain, Unsweetened)
1/4 Cup 1/4 Glutinous Rice Flour
1/4 Cup 1/4 Aquafaba
1/2 Tsp 1/2 Black salt (For EGG WHITES)(More Or Less To Taste)
1/2 Cup 1/2 Water (For YOLK SAUCE)
1/2 Cup 1/2 Neutral Flavored Oil
2 Tsp 2 Cornstarch
1 Tbsp 1 Nutritional Yeast
1 Tbsp 1 Ketchup
1 Tbsp 1 Yellow Mustard
1 Tsp 1 Garlic Powder
1/2 Tsp 1/2 Turmeric
1 – 2 Tsp 1 – 2 MSG
Salt(To Taste)
1/4 Tsp 1/4 Black salt (For YOLK SAUCE)
1/2 Tbsp 1/2 Calcium Lactate (For YOLK SAUCE)
1/2 Can 1/2 Pumpkin Puree(About 7 oz.)
1/4 – 1/2 Cup 1/4 – 1/2 Vegan Yogurt (For OLD YOLK SAUCE)
2 – 4 Tbsp 2 – 4 Olive Or Neutral Oil (For OLD YOLK SAUCE)
2 Tsp 2 Tapioca Starch
2 Tbsp 2 Mushroom Seasoning
1 Tsp 1 Onion Powder
1/2 Tsp 1/2 Garlic Powder (For OLD YOLK SAUCE)
1/2 Tbsp 1/2 Calcium Lactate (For OLD YOLK SAUCE)
Step-By-Step Directions
- Alginate Bath Preparation
- Gradually incorporate sodium alginate into distilled water in a blender set to medium speed. Continue blending until the mixture is completely dissolved.
- Pour the blended mixture into a sealed container and refrigerate it overnight. This step allows air bubbles to dissipate, ensuring a smooth alginate bath.
- Egg Whites
- Whisk together all the egg white ingredients in a measuring cup until well combined. The measuring cup facilitates easy pouring later on. Set this mixture aside for later use.
- Yolk Sauce (New And Improved)
- Place all yolk sauce ingredients, except for the black salt, into a cup of immersion or regular blender. Blend until the mixture achieves a smooth and emulsified texture.
- Transfer the blended mixture into a saucepan. Warm it over medium-low heat until the cornstarch is activated and the sauce thickens.
- Once thickened, remove from heat. Now, stir in the black salt and adjust the seasoning to your taste. If the sauce’s emulsion breaks at any point, simply blend it again to restore its smooth consistency.
- Fried Egg Method
- To form the vegan yolks, add a tablespoon of the yolk mixture to the prepared alginate bath. Gently cover the yolk with the alginate mixture to form a sphere. Allow it to sit for 30 seconds.
- After 30 seconds, gently remove the yolk using a slotted spoon and rinse it in cool water to remove any excess alginate.
- Heat a non-stick pan over medium heat with vegetable oil or vegan butter. Pour 2-3 tablespoons of the egg white mixture into the pan, spreading it evenly.
- Carefully place one of the prepared yolks in the center of the spreading egg white. Cook until the edges of the white are crispy. Season with little salt, black pepper, and black salt for an extra eggy flavor. Hot sauce is also recommended for those who enjoy a spicy kick.
- Over Medium Method
- Mix in 1/2 teaspoon of tapioca starch for each tablespoon of yolk mixture until well combined. This modification helps simulate the texture of an over-medium egg.
- Follow the fried egg method for cooking, but introduce the yolk into the center of the egg white after it has been poured into the pan. Allow the bottom to brown before flipping carefully to cook to your desired level of doneness.
- Old Yolk Method
- Mix all the ingredients for the old yolk sauce in a bowl or using a high-speed blender. Adjust the seasoning and the consistency according to your preference.
- This yolk sauce variant can be used just like the new & improved version in recipes or with the fried and over-medium methods to create diverse vegan egg dishes.
- EQUIPMENT LIST
- Blender
- Whisk
- Measuring Cups
- Measuring Spoons
- Immersion Blender
- Saucepan
- Non-stick Pan
- Slotted Spoon
- Tupperware or Container
- Paper Towels
Notes
- Black Salt (Kala Namak): Essential for achieving the sulfurous, eggy flavor in vegan egg recipes.
- Consistency Adjustments: Tailor the thickness of your sauces with cornstarch or tapioca starch to suit different dishes.
- Blender Use: An immersion blender minimizes cleanup and efficiently creates smooth emulsions.
- Alginate Bath Tips: Ensure the alginate solution is clear of air bubbles by refrigerating overnight for the best results.
- Versatility: The recipe adapts to various methods, offering textures from runny to firm.
- Storage: Both the yolk sauce and alginate bath can be made ahead and stored, enhancing flavors while saving time.
- Seasoning: Adjust black salt and other seasonings to taste, as preferences for “egginess” and saltiness vary.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Make Vegan Egg Yolk Without Black Salt?
Yes, you can make vegan egg yolk without black salt, but black salt (kala namak) is crucial for mimicking real egg yolks’ sulfurous aroma and taste.
If you don’t have or prefer not to use it, your vegan egg yolk will lack the characteristic eggy flavor. Consider using a pinch of regular salt for seasoning instead, but be aware that the flavor profile will be different.
How Long Does Vegan Egg Yolk Last In The Fridge?
When stored properly in an airtight container, vegan egg yolk can last up to five days in the fridge. It’s important to ensure that the container is sealed well to prevent the yolk from absorbing any odors from the fridge and to maintain its freshness.
Is Vegan Egg Yolk Nutritious?
A perfect vegan egg yolk is a nutritious option, especially for those following a plant-based diet. Depending on the specific ingredients used, it typically contains healthy fats, vitamins, and minerals.
For instance, nutritional yeast can provide B vitamins, turmeric offers anti-inflammatory properties, and the fats are usually sourced from healthier oils. However, consuming it as the best part of a balanced diet is important.
Can I Freeze Vegan Egg Yolk?
Yes, vegan egg yolk can be frozen for later use, although the texture might slightly change upon thawing. To freeze, place the yolk mixture in a freezer-safe container or bag.
When ready to use, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight. If the texture becomes less smooth, a quick blend or whisk can help restore it.
How Can I Use Vegan Egg Yolk In My Cooking?
Vegan egg yolk is incredibly versatile and can be used in various dishes. It’s great for adding richness to vegan breakfast plates, such as scrambled tofu, or as a topping for avocado toast.
You can incorporate it into vegan baking, use it as a base for sauces and dressings, or simply enjoy it as a dip. Its application extends to wherever you might use traditional egg yolk, offering a plant-based alternative without sacrificing flavor or texture.
