Flaxseeds are tiny, brown or golden-colored seeds that have gained popularity in recent years due to their impressive nutritional benefits. Not only are they a great source of plant-based protein and fiber, but they also contain high levels of omega-3 fatty acids, which are essential for brain health and can help reduce inflammation in the body. And for all us vegans, they're a perfect vegan egg substitute.
Varieties of Flaxseeds
There are two different types of flaxseeds: brown and golden. Brown flaxseeds are the most common and have a nutty flavor that pairs well with baked goods or smoothies. Golden flaxseeds, on the other hand, have a milder taste and are often used in gluten-free baking recipes because they give baked goods a light, golden color. You can also get many of the health benefits from flaxseed oil.
You can buy flaxseed already ground, which is flaxseed meal. You can also grind whole seeds, using a coffee grinder, to make your own.
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Storing Flaxseeds or Flaxseed Meal
When it comes to storing flaxseeds, it's important to keep them in an airtight container in the refrigerator or freezer to prevent them from going rancid. Flaxseeds contain high levels of unsaturated fats, which are susceptible to oxidation when exposed to heat, light, or air. To maximize their shelf life, it's best to buy whole flaxseeds and grind them as needed. Ground flaxseeds can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a month or in the freezer for up to six months.
Nutritional Benefits
Flax seeds are also a good source of plant-based omega-3 fatty acids, which are essential for heart health, brain function, and joint health. They are also a good source of lignans, which have been shown to have anti-cancer properties.
Our Favorite Flaxseed Recipes
Here are ten of our most loved recipes that use flaxseed as an ingredient. Whether you prefer the nutty flavor of brown flaxseeds or the mild taste of golden flaxseeds, they are a versatile and nutritious ingredient that can be incorporated into a variety of recipes, from smoothies to baked goods to savory dishes.
Salted Vegan Peanut Butter Cookies
These Salted Vegan Peanut Butter Cookies are crisp on the outside and melt-in-your-mouth soft on the inside.
Ingredients: flaxseed, peanut butter, coconut oil, coconut sugar, maple syrup, vanilla extract, all purpose flour, baking powder, sea salt, baking soda
Pantry Granola
Have you ever made your own granola? It’ll change your life. At least, it’ll change your life in the small way that a homemade breakfast/snack mix can.
Ingredients: old fashioned oats, quinoa, flax seeds, raw nuts, raw seeds, cinnamon, coconut oil, maple syrup, golden raisins
Vegan Blueberry Pie Baked Oatmeal
This Baked Oatmeal captures the fresh flavors of summer in a sweet, crunchy breakfast casserole. Coconut whipped cream adds a delicious layer of flavor and texture – you’ll swear you’re eating dessert!
Ingredients: ground flaxseed, old-fashioned rolled oats, cinnamon, baking powder, coconut oil, vanilla extract, maple syrup, almond milk, blueberries, almonds
Garlicky Vegan Zucchini Fritters
Topped with vegan sour cream and fresh green onion, these Garlicky Vegan Zucchini Fritters make a fantastic summer appetizer or light lunch.
Ingredients: zucchini, yellow onion, ground flaxseed, garlic cloves, whole wheat flour, black pepper, olive oil, vegan sour cream, green onion
Seeded Quinoa Crackers (Gluten-Free)
You can use just about any seeds and spices you’d like in this recipe for Seeded Quinoa Crackers, making it ideal for using up bits and pieces from your pantry. The bulk bin will be your best friend!
Ingredients: flax meal, quinoa flour, almond flour, dried herbs, sea salt, pepper, raw pumpkin seeds, raw sunflower seeds, sesame seeds, olive oil
Potato Latkes (Vegan)
These vegan Potato Latkes were inspired by traditional latkes enjoyed during Hanukkah. They're perfectly crisp on the outside and soft inside!
Ingredients: ground flaxseed (flaxseed meal), russet potatoes, yellow onion, matzo meal, salt, oil
Vegan Peanut Butter Oatmeal Cookies
These vegan peanut butter oatmeal cookies cookies are a little salty, a little sweet, crispy around the edges and soft in the middle. Basically, the perfect cookie!
Ingredients: all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, ground cinnamon, salt, oats, coconut oil, peanut butter, sugar, brown sugar, non-dairy milk, ground flaxseed meal, vanilla extract, chocolate chips
Blueberry Scones
This vegan blueberry scones recipe from Nora Cooks is a perfect breakfast or brunch treat that is both light and fluffy. Made with fresh or frozen blueberries and an optional delicate lemon glaze.
Ingredients: flour, baking powder, ground flaxseeds, sugar, vegan butter, almond milk, vanilla, blueberries, lemon zest, powdered sugar
Vegan Meyer Lemon Poppy Seed Muffins
These lemon poppy seed muffins from Minimalist Baker are the perfect brunch treat.
Ingredients: flax eggs, unsweetened applesauce, Meyer lemons, vanilla, coconut oil, almond milk, maple syrup, sugar, baking soda, poppy seeds, whole-wheat pastry flour, rolled oats, almond meal, powdered sugar
Favorite Vegan Brownies
These vegan brownies from Simple Veganista are a delicious vegan-friendly dessert option. Pairs perfectly with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
Ingredients: non-dairy butter, sugar, flax eggs, vanilla, flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, dark chocolate bar
Flaxseed Egg Substitute
Flax seeds are a very popular egg substitute that is high in fiber, antioxidants, and essential fatty acids. When mixed with water, flax seeds form a gel-like substance, making them a great option for binding ingredients together in recipes.
Flax egg recipe: Mix 1 tablespoon of ground flax seeds with 3 tablespoons of warm water and let it sit for 5 minutes. This mixture can replace one real egg in a recipe.
Looking for more vegan egg substitutes?
Vegan Egg Substitutes: A Comprehensive Guide
Eggs are a staple ingredient in many recipes, but they're easy to replace. Check out some of the most popular and versatile options to replace eggs in your favorite recipes.
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