Aquafaba Wonders: Vegan Meringues from Chickpea Liquid
Welcome to the world of aquafaba wonders! If you’re a vegan or someone who is looking for an alternative to egg-based meringues, then you’ve come to the right place. Gone are the days when egg whites were the only option for making light and airy meringues. With the discovery of aquafaba, also known as chickpea liquid, a whole new world of vegan desserts has opened up. Get ready to be amazed by the versatility and wonders of this incredible ingredient. In this article, we’ll talk about aquafaba and how it can be used to create delicious vegan meringues. 
What is Aquafaba?
Aquafaba is the viscous liquid that is found in canned chickpeas or the cooking water of boiled chickpeas. It is a natural emulsifier and stabilizer, which means it can mimic the properties of egg whites in recipes. Although its existence has been known for some time, it wasn’t until 2015 that a French software engineer, Goose Wohlt, discovered its potential as an egg substitute. He found that if agitated, aquafaba could create foam and peaks, just like egg whites. Since then, it has become a game-changer for those who follow a vegan or plant-based diet.
Aquafaba vs. Egg Whites
So, you might be wondering how aquafaba compares to egg whites. Well, let’s break it down. While egg whites are high in protein, aquafaba is predominantly made up of starches and soluble plant fibers. This makes it a suitable option for those with allergies or dietary restrictions. Additionally, aquafaba has a neutral taste, so it won’t alter the flavor of your dish, unlike egg whites which have a distinct taste. From a nutritional perspective, egg whites and aquafaba are similar in terms of calories and carbohydrates, but egg whites contain a small amount of fat, which aquafaba does not. Overall, aquafaba is an excellent low-calorie and fat-free alternative to egg whites.
The Science Behind Aquafaba’s Magic
So, what gives aquafaba the ability to whip up like egg whites? The secret lies in its chemical composition. The sugars and proteins in aquafaba create a matrix that stabilizes the air bubbles formed when it is whipped. This results in a stable foam that can be used in a variety of recipes, just like egg whites. This unique property makes aquafaba a versatile ingredient in vegan cooking and baking.
How to Use Aquafaba in Meringues
Now that you know what aquafaba is and what makes it so special, let’s talk about how you can use it to make vegan meringues. The basic ratio for aquafaba to replace egg whites is three tablespoons of aquafaba for every one egg white. However, this may vary depending on the brand of chickpeas and the consistency of the aquafaba. For best results, use homemade aquafaba or canned chickpeas that do not contain any added salt or seasonings.
To make aquafaba meringues, simply whip the aquafaba using an electric mixer until stiff peaks form, just like you would with egg whites. You can also add a bit of cream of tartar or lemon juice to help stabilize the foam. Once the peaks are stiff, gradually add in your sweetener of choice, such as sugar, maple syrup, or agave, and continue to whip until the mixture is glossy and holds its shape. Then, you can pipe or spoon the mixture onto a baking sheet and bake in a preheated oven until crispy. The result? Light, airy, and delicious vegan meringues!
Aquafaba Wonders: Beyond Meringues
But wait, there’s more! Aquafaba can also be used in a variety of other recipes, such as vegan macarons, marshmallows, and even mayonnaise. It’s an excellent binding agent and can be used as an egg replacement in cakes, cookies, and other baked goods. The possibilities are endless, and the best part is that it’s affordable and easily accessible.
Final Thoughts
Aquafaba truly is a wonder ingredient for vegans and those looking for alternative options to egg whites. Its versatility and unique properties make it a game-changer in vegan cooking and baking. So, the next time you’re looking to whip up a batch of meringues or try out a new vegan recipe, don’t forget about aquafaba. It just might be the secret ingredient you’ve been missing!
In conclusion, aquafaba is not only a vegan meringue wonder, but it is a game-changer in the world of plant-based cooking. Its easy accessibility, neutral taste, and incredible versatility make it a must-try for anyone looking to experiment with new and exciting recipes. So, go ahead and give it a try. Who knows, you might just be pleasantly surprised by the wonders of aquafaba.
