At your local Farm Boy, you’ll discover a curated selection of foods expertly sourced by us for the highest quality and taste. From the freshest, longest-lasting local fruits and veggies to artisan crafted delicacies from around the world, we have a consistently growing assortment we think you’ll love. This includes plenty of specialty products to suit your dietary needs and tastes. Whether it’s kosher, gluten-free, halal, dairy-free, nut-free, plant-based and more, come on in to discover what makes us different! Today we’re shining a spotlight on nutritional yeast—a versatile ingredient that’s bursting with funky flavour. Learn more about it in this blog and find Farm Boy™ Nutritional Yeast in our Grocery Department on your next shop.
What is Nutritional Yeast?
Made from the same type of yeast that is used to leaven bread, nutritional yeast is a deactivated form that’s been pasteurized and dried. An excellent seasoning option for plant-based eaters, it adds great flavour to any dish and contains a slew of potential dietary benefits. Rich in B vitamins, protein, and other nutrients, nutritional yeast is a deliciously wholesome ingredient that can also help contribute to a well-balanced diet.
What Does Nutritional Yeast Look and Taste Like?
Nutritional yeast is an absolute flavour bomb! It has a bold, cheese-like flavour that’s bursting with savoury umami and a nutty, slightly tangy finish. In terms of appearance, this specialty ingredient is yellow and usually comes in flakes, granules, or powdered forms.
How is it Used?
Nutritional yeast is a versatile seasoning that can be used like you would salt or pepper. Pair it with virtually any ingredient to add a dose of bold, savoury umami. Whether it’s used in your favourite cooked dishes or as a final garnish to surprise the palate, this funky ingredient makes an impact!
5 Tasty Things to Pair with Nutritional Yeast
Popcorn
Popcorn is a satisfying snack that’s often a go-to when you’ve got the munchies. A fun way to jazz up this tasty treat is to add delectable flavours and seasonings to make it your own. At our stores you’ll find a wide selection of popcorn options. Enjoy customer-favourites like Farm Boy™ Himalayan Pink Salt Popcorn to convenient varieties like our Original Microwave Popcorn!
Farm Boy™ Low Sodium Popcorn
Prepared with only 3 simple ingredients, this popcorn is popped in coconut oil for a buttery taste. Gluten-free and just 35 calories per cup, level up its flavour with a light drizzle of olive oil, a generous sprinkle of nutritional yeast, and a touch of cracked black pepper.
Farm Boy™ Popcorn Kernels
Our Canadian-grown, pesticide-free popcorn kernels are an excellent canvas for snack time creativity. Enjoy it freshly popped on the stovetop or in a popcorn machine and tossed in a light drizzle of olive or coconut oil, and seasoned with nutritional yeast and our Farm Boy™ Everything Bagel Seasoning Mix!
Pasta Aglio e Olio
Craving a quick, comforting dish with restaurant-quality flair? Say hello to pasta aglio e olio! It’s a rustic Italian classic that’s simple to make and is completely crave-worthy. Literally meaning “garlic and oil pasta,” this humble dish proves that less really can be more. Our plant-based twist brings a fresh take to this timeless favourite. It’s sure to become a delicious staple for your weekly meal rotation!
Ingredients:
- 1 pack Farm Boy™ Spaghetti Dried Pasta
- ½ cup Farm Boy™ Spanish Extra Virgin Olive Oil
- 2 Tbsp Farm Boy™ Lebanese Style Toum – Garlic Sauce
- 1 tsp Farm Boy™ Organic Crushed Dried Chili Peppers
- 1 cup of sliced white onions or shallots
- ½ cup Fresh Parsley
- 1 cup Farm Boy™ Vegan Parmesan-Style Shredded Cheese Alternative
- 1 ½ Tbsp of Farm Boy™ Nutritional Yeast
- 1–2 cups pasta water
- Salt
Instructions:
- Boil pasta in a large pot filled with salted water until “al dente” (cooked but firm).
- Save a mug-full—roughly 2 cups—of pasta water for later use.
- Strain pasta and drizzle with touch of olive oil to prevent sticking.
- On medium heat in a large sauce pan, wok, or pot, heat olive oil, toum, and onions/shallots until slightly golden. Add chili flakes.
- Stirring constantly, sauté pasta with the oil mixture and add nutritional yeast. Slowly incorporate pasta water and cook on medium-high heat, allowing to reduce.
- It’s not necessary to use all the pasta water but just enough to reach your desired consistency. The pasta should be glossy and loose.
- Finish by tossing with parsley and ½ cup of Parmesan-Style Shredded Cheese.
- Plate and garnish with leftover parsley and Parmesan-Style Shredded Cheese.
Kale
Full of earthy flavour, kale is a wholesome ingredient that has wonderful texture whether cooked or fresh. Its slight bitterness pairs beautifully with bold flavours—think sweet, fruity, salty, or spicy. Nutritional yeast adds a savoury boost that complements kale’s natural richness and helps mellow out its grassy notes. Try Farm Boy™ Nutritional Yeast sprinkled over homemade kale chips, on kale sautéed with garlic and olive oil, or tossed into our Farm Boy™ Superfood Salad Blend with a simple vinaigrette for a delicious punch of flavour.
Polenta
Warm polenta is pure comfort in a bowl! It’s creamy, hearty, and ready to soak up bold, vibrant flavours. Polenta is the perfect base for roasted veggies and a blank canvas for herbs, spices, and seasonings. For a mouthwatering twist, stir in cheesy nutritional yeast to add a savoury umami kick that stands up to traditionally-used Italian cheeses like Parmigiano Reggiano and Pecorino Romano. Top it off with pan-roasted cherry or grape tomatoes still on the vine, and finish with a drizzle of nutty brown butter made using Farm Boy™ Salted Plant-Based Butter. Whether you’re serving it as a starter or a side, this dish is sure to impress!
Roasted Brussels Sprouts
A close cousin to cabbage, Brussels sprouts take on a beautifully caramelized flavour when roasted or pan-fried over medium to medium-high heat. Their satisfying crunch and earthy, peppery notes make them a special addition to any meal. Inject a bit of Canada into this wholesome favourite by cooking them with a touch of Farm Boy™ Maple Butter Spread. Finish it off with a sprinkle of vibrant lemon zest and nutritional yeast for a fresh, punchy twist. This yummy combo brings out the best in these little green gems!
