1. Lupini Beans – The Ancient Superfood

Lupini beans are an ancient legume packed with protein. These beans, often used in Mediterranean dishes, are high in both protein and fiber. Just one cup provides nearly 26 grams of protein, making them an ideal plant-based protein source. They can be enjoyed in salads, as a snack, or ground into flour for various recipes.

2. Seitan – The Wheat Meat

Seitan, also known as wheat gluten, is a popular meat substitute famed for its texture and high protein content. Made by washing wheat flour dough with water to remove starch granules, seitan is often used in vegan and vegetarian recipes. A 3-ounce serving contains around 21 grams of protein. Its versatility makes it excellent in stir-fries, grilled, or even sliced in sandwiches.

3. Nutritional Yeast – The Cheesy Flavor Booster

Nutritional yeast is a deactivated yeast known for its cheesy, nutty flavor. Rich in B-vitamins and protein—containing about 9 grams of protein per two tablespoons—it’s commonly used to add flavor to a variety of dishes. Sprinkle it over popcorn, mix it into sauces, or use it as a cheese substitute in pasta dishes and casseroles.

4. Hemp Seeds – The Tiny Powerhouses

Hemp seeds are tiny powerhouses rich in protein, healthy fats, and various nutrients. With around 10 grams of protein per 3 tablespoons, they are perfect for adding to smoothies, salads, and baked goods. These seeds also provide an excellent source of omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, which contribute to heart health and inflammation reduction.

5. Spirulina – The Algae Wonder

Spirulina is a type of blue-green algae that’s incredibly nutrient-dense. Just one tablespoon of spirulina powder contains 4 grams of protein along with a mix of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. Often added to smoothies, it can also be taken in tablet form or sprinkled over salads. Spirulina supports immune function and boosts energy levels.

6. Tempeh – The Fermented Soybean Cake

Tempeh is another protein-rich soybean product, fermented to improve digestibility and add to nutritional value. One cup of tempeh contains approximately 31 grams of protein. It has a firm texture and a mildly nutty flavor, making it ideal for grilling, stir-frying, or adding to sandwiches and salads.

7. Sacha Inchi – The Inca Peanut

Sacha Inchi, also known as the Inca Peanut, is a lesser-known seed originating from the Amazon rainforest. It contains about 9 grams of protein per ounce and is rich in omega-3 fatty acids. Often available in the form of roasted seeds or oil, Sacha Inchi can be added to salads, smoothies, and yogurt for a protein boost.

7 Delicious Plant-Based Protein Sources You Didn't Know Were There

1. Lupini Beans – Consider adding these to salads, as a snack, or as a flour substitute in recipes.
2. Seitan – Use it in stir-fries, grilled dishes, or as a sandwich filling.
3. Nutritional Yeast – Sprinkle over popcorn, mix into sauces, or use as a cheese substitute.
4. Hemp Seeds – Add to smoothies, salads, or baked goods for a protein boost.
5. Spirulina – Mix into smoothies or take as tablets to support immune function.
6. Tempeh – Grill, stir-fry, or add to sandwiches and salads.
7. Sacha Inchi – Incorporate into salads, smoothies, or enjoy as roasted seeds.