How to Make a Flax Egg

So, you’ve made the plunge and taken animal products out of your diet.  Way to go!  Or maybe you’ve just found out your child is allergic to eggs and need some pointers (I’ve got your back).  You go your favorite chocolate chip cookie recipe and realize there are eggs in it…uh oh.  What is the vegan substitute for eggs?  Flax eggs are the vegan substitute for eggs.

To be clear, flax eggs aren’t a substitute for something like scrambled eggs or omelettes, but are used as a substitute for eggs in baking.  The scrambled eggs and omelette substitutes are for another post and another time.  Be patient, they’re coming.

What is a flax egg?

A flax egg is a vegan egg substitute made from ground flax seeds and water.  It is a perfect substitute for anyone avoiding eggs because of allergies or dietary preferences.  A flax egg can be used as a substitute for chicken eggs in most baking recipes.  You can substitute up to 2 flax eggs for chicken eggs in a recipe and get similar results.

How do I make a flax egg?

Make a flax egg by combing 1 tablespoon of ground flax seeds and 3 tablespoons of water in a small bowl.  Whisk the ingredients together and then set aside to thicken for 10-15 minutes.   Once the mixture has thickened, feels gelatinous and has a texture similar to that of a chicken egg, it is ready to be used in your favorite baking recipe.

This video demonstrates how easy it is to make a flax egg at home.

What are Flax seeds?

Flax seeds are a seed that come from the flax plant.   The seeds are small, light brown in color and have a slightly nutty flavor.  Flax seeds are rich in fiber, protein and omega-3 fatty acids.  Flax seeds also aid in digestion and may help reduce cholesterol and blood pressure.  These little seeds pack a powerful nutrition and health punch!

I’m allergic to flax, is there another vegan egg substitute?

I’m glad you asked!  If flax is a problem for you, use ground chia seeds in place of the flax.  A chia egg will work the exact same way as a chicken or flax egg.  Chia seeds are black, so they may give your final product a different look, but it will still taste delicious!

What if I can’t find flax seeds that are already ground?

If you can’t find flax seeds already ground, add whole flax seeds to a coffee grinder and process until finely ground.  Once ground, measure out the amount you need because ground flax seeds will give you a slightly higher yield than the whole seeds. You can make a grinder full of the ground flax and then store in an airtight container in your fridge for future use.

Recipes that use a flax egg

If you want to get started using your flax egg right away check out these recipes:

Vegan Chocolate Chip Cookies

Gluten-Free Pizza Crust

More to come!  Enjoy!

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