5 Hidden Sources of Vegan Protein 💪 (Drew's Digest #06)

thedrewtrott (51)in #vegan • 6 years ago (edited)

Here is a list of 5 plant-based foods that you’ve probably never associated with protein. While they may not contain huge amounts of protein, they are still good sources and help to add to the overall daily protein intake of non-meat eaters. All of these foods are referred to as complete proteins, meaning they contain all 9 essential amino acids (AA).

1. Pumpkin seeds (pepitas)

Good old pumpkin seeds, you know you love them. Pumpkin seeds have around 8 grams of protein per 1/4 cup. They can be used in heaps of different types of meals, from smoothies, toasted in salads, made into flour and added to bread etc.

2. Cauliflower

Who would’ve thought cauliflower had anything to do with protein? Some may consider broccoli to be more of a protein food (as it has twice as much protein), but it is slightly lacking in one essential AA (Leucine) making it an ‘incomplete’ protein. Cauliflower has around 2 grams of protein per cup.

3. Spinach

Ok, I may have lied just a tiny bit in the post title. If you do eat plant-based than I am sure that you probably have already associated spinach with protein. Raw spinach has around 1 grams of protein per cup – which doesn’t seem like much but in combination with other foods, helps to meet daily protein needs.

4. Avocado

Avocado on toast is probably the greatest revelation I have had since eating plant-based. Before that, I was resistant whenever a sandwich laced with avocado was handed my way – often referring to it as ‘green mush’. Unbeknownst to me, it was the greatest thing you could possibly put on toast, plus they have some amazing history and health benefits. Half an avocado has around 1.3 grams of protein.

5. Asparagus

Now, this may be a shocker to you. Asparagus is a complete protein – crazy right?. Asparagus has around 1.5 grams of protein in 4 cooked spears and is also featured in another post found here.