As someone who eats plant-based, I am always asked, “Where do you get your protein from?” If you eat similarly to me, this question isn’t unfamiliar.
There are so many options these days and I’m always learning about new ones. I’ve especially found this helpful when trying to up my protein intake while on my reverse diet.
So without further ado, here are my top favorite most inexpensive plant-based protein sources I keep in my pantry. I’ve also included the amount of protein per serving and the serving price as of April 2023.
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NorCal Organic Pea Protein
This is probably my favorite. Hence why it is at the top of my list.
I can make anything with this from smoothies to baked goods and it’s super easy to add to soups. With one simple ingredient, you get a lot of bang for your buck!
Protein: 22g
Serving Price: $1.02
Anthony’s Vital Wheat Gluten
This is a close second to the pea protein. Only because you typically can’t just blend this in a smoothie. However, it is amazing for making plant-based/vegan meat alternatives like seitan or as a binder in meatless loaves.
I am eager to share my recipe for making cakes with this. You wouldn’t even know there is vital wheat gluten in it and you get a boost of protein. What a win!
Protein: 23g
Serving Price: $0.40
Bob’s Red Mill TVP (Textured Vegetable Protein)
I remember finding these in a special Bob’s Red Mill section of Ocean State Job Lot when I lived in Rhode Island. I had just moved into a plant-based diet was dumbfounded by these little crumbles.
Little did I know how versatile TVP is. You can add it to your rice or oatmeal to bulk it up and add more protein. I’ve even made vegan taco meat from this. There are so many possibilities and I always keep this in my pantry.
Protein: 13g
Serving Price: $0.33
Butler Soy Curls
Similar to TVP except bigger if you want larger pieces. And if you buy the larger bundle, you get a chik-style seasoning.
I don’t miss eating meat but I always think it is really cool when a plant product resembles it and tastes good.
Protein: 10g
Serving Price: $0.90
Frontier Co-op Nutritional Yeast
Ever have a good vegan sauce that resembles cheese? Likely nutritional yeast was a star ingredient in that recipe. This is a super versatile ingredient that can be used in recipes or simply as a seasoning.
With a cheesy like flavor, you don’t have to miss out on great savory foods. And the bonus is how much protein it packs in a small serving.
I usually buy the unflavored but there are other tasty options such as dill & vinegar, Himalayan salt & apple cider vinegar, and nacho spice,
Protein: 9g
Serving Price: $0.53
West Soy Organic Unsweetened Soymilk
Soymilk can rub some people the wrong way but I have no shame in loving it. It can be used is so many ways like topping off coffee and cereal or baking with it.
No matter your use, West Soy Organic Soymilk packs a lot of protein in a small glass. Likewise, it only contains two ingredients. Filtered water and soybeans.
Protein: 9g
Serving Price: $1.47
Presto Sales Dry Roasted Edamame Beans
I love these as a snack. They are crunchy and salty and full of protein. And this bag from Presto Sales is one of the best values out there.
These are great by the handful but you can try them in soups and salads for an added crunch. Even better they don’t need to be refrigerated like typical edamame.
Protein: 21g (50g serving)
Serving Price: $0.78
NorCal Organic Peanut Butter Powder
Calling all peanut butter lovers! I love this brand because it is organic and has only one ingredient. No unnecessary added sugar like most other brands.
This one is great to add to smoothies, oatmeal, mix to make a spread, bake with, and more.
Protein: 11g
Serving Price: $0.88
I hope you grow to love having these ingredients in your pantry as much as I do. Even better is you can get all of them in one place from Amazon.
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Have any suggestions for other plant-based protein staples? Comment and share below!
