Yeast Extract

One of the most popular sources for cheese-like flavorings among people who consume an exclusively plant-based diet is yeast extract. This is produced from leftover dead yeast cells after fermentation; these are heated and then processed to produce yeast extract. A combination of enzyme-based reactions such as proteolysis helps boost the umami taste of this product. It can be sprinkled on top of pasta, chips, popcorn, or vegetables and stirred into soups and stocks, much like bonito flakes, to add a rich umami note. Marmite, a byproduct of beer brewing, and Vegemite, a byproduct of brewers’ yeast, both contain yeast extract with other flavoring ingredients and are usually eaten as a spread on toast or sandwiches.