Tag: Soup thickener

Nutritional yeast is a deactivated yeast that, unlike its leavening cousin, is used for its flavor. A common question for vegan and plant-based cooks is: does nutritional yeast thicken liquid effectively? The short answer is yes, but it functions differently than traditional starches.

Studies indicate that the fruit pulp of *Detarium microcarpum*, from which Ofor is made, contains significant levels of carbohydrates (around 65%) and crude fiber (around 12%), along with vital minerals and vitamins. As a natural soup thickener in West African cuisine, this nutrient-dense ingredient offers a range of health advantages that extend far beyond its culinary function.

Egusi comes from a West African melon with inedible, bitter fruit, a key fact for answering: Is egusi the same as pumpkin seed? While often confused due to their similar nutty flavor and culinary roles, the two are distinct members of the gourd family.