Flax seeds are a nutritious super-food with nutrients ranging from omega-3, fibers, minerals, and vitamins. They also have a calorie content of 37.9. The addition to food evolves its crunchy feature and enhances the texture of the dish at the same time. Also, you can use flax seeds in baking, for it is vegan-friendly. However, if it is not in constant supply, don’t get worked up, below are some of the closest and exciting substitutes for flax seeds.
1. Chia seeds
Chia seeds are the closest alternative that you can use to substitute flax seeds. They have the same texture and nutrition content. Scientists say that the daily consumption of chia seeds accounts for 50% of the daily fiber requirement in your body. This is quite substantial, given that it is only three spoons of chia seeds.
Furthermore, studies indicate that chia seeds can be used for therapeutic interventions. They claim that these seeds are antioxidants, anti-blood clotting agents, antidepressants, and they also have anti-inflammatory properties. Therefore, they are good for diabetic people and those with blood sugar complications.
2. Hemp seeds
Hemp seeds are rich in omega-3, fiber, vitamins, protein, and flavor. However, they are not close to flax seeds for the texture. The nutrient content closely matches that of flax seeds, in fact, it has more protein content than flax seeds. Whilst this is true, they fail to come close to the efficiency of the flax seeds when it comes to baking.
3. Tofu
Tofu can be categorized as soy food. When silken tofu is used, it acts as a binding agent. Tofu is rich in nutrients that may be close to flax seeds. Besides, therapists use tofu in cancer treatment. You can use the ratio of 1:1 for substitutions.
4. Pureed fruits
You can puree fruits such as applesauce or bananas for your recipe. Blend unsweetened applesauce or banana to substitute the binding property of flax seeds in baking, which will, in turn, preserve the flavor of the meal.
5. Almond flour
With almond flour, you will need to abandon your original recipe. Almond comes with a host of nutrients; however, it has more moisture content than regular baking flour. You will need binding, such as an egg for this new recipe. Also, almond flour comes with more calorie content and fats than flax seeds. This is why it can be used in place of the seeds altogether. On the other hand, as earlier hinted, the moisture content in the flour exposes it to quick spoilage. This is why storage should either be in airtight containers or a frozen state for nine months.
6. Wheat germ
Wheat germ contains rich deposits of vitamins, proteins, fats, and minerals. Also, it has binding properties as flax seeds. Therefore, it is eligible to be used as n alternative for flax seeds in your balking. The only concern is that the softness and chewy properties of your bakes will have reduced considerably.
The bottom line
Chia seeds and flax seeds can be used interchangeably in your baking needs. Chia seeds can also be used in beverages.
