By The Green Parent

31st March 2014

Everywhere you go, in every recipe you try to replicate – egg is invariably on the list of ingredients. And, whilst they do carry many benefits in terms of health and what they can add to baking consistency, they aren’t for everyone either by choice or due to allergies. Alternatives can often be filled with synthetic materials and chemical nasties, so for the health conscious we’ve put together 5 natural replacements that are just as good (or not far off) the real deal.

By The Green Parent

31st March 2014

By The Green Parent

31st March 2014

The only thing to consider, is the recipe. Dependent upon what the egg is being used for will determine the kind of replacement you will need – some work to bind, others to rise and others create that eggy gelatinous texture.

1. Banana. 1/3 of a mashed banana can be used in certain recipes to replace each egg. It works as a thickening agent in breads and binds cookie mixtures together well. It also adds an extra dimension in that it sweetens and gives the mixture that added density. It’s not possible to completely disguise the flavour, however, unless your recipe is particularly flavoursome.
2. Ground Arrowroot. This can be used as an egg substitute in most baking/recipes. Simply swap out each egg for a mixture of 2 tbsp Arrowroot: 1 tbsp water. As an easily digestible starch rich with nutrients, it makes for a healthful and stomach friendly alternative that is suitable for people of all ages. Particularly those with food sensitivities and stomach problems.
3. Applesauce. Like Bananas, Applesauce works as a binding and thickening agent. In recipes where the egg also acts as a rising agent, you may need to add a little baking powder if it isn’t otherwise specified. ¼ cup of applesauce works well to replace each egg.
4. Chia seeds. Rich in nutrients and fatty acids, much like eggs, Chia seeds make for a great replacement on every level. They can be quite costly, but certainly worth the investment if you’re interested in the health benefits and feel you are missing out with an egg-free diet. A ratio of 1 tbsp chia seeds: 2 tbsp water will replace each egg and creates a great egg-like texture.
5. Agar Agar. Best used in custards, jellified dishes and similar, Agar Agar is a great gelatin/egg replacement for vegans. A 50/50 ratio mixed with water will make the perfect consistency and 1 tbsp of each replaces each egg in the recipe.

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