What is AquaFaba and How to Use It

When it comes to plant-based cooking and baking, finding suitable alternatives for eggs can be a challenge. However, a relatively new and exciting ingredient has emerged in recent years that has revolutionized vegan and vegetarian recipes - AquaFaba or Aqua Faba. Let's explore what aquafaba is and how to use it in your culinary creations.

What is AquaFaba?

Aqua faba, derived from Latin meaning "bean water," is the liquid found in canned or cooked legumes, such as chickpeas or white beans. It is the viscous liquid that remains after cooking or canning the beans and can be used as an egg white substitute due to its unique properties.

The magic of aqua faba lies in its ability to mimic the functional properties of egg whites, such as binding, foaming, and emulsifying. It contains starches, proteins, and other soluble plant solids that create a gel-like consistency when whipped or heated.

How to Use AquaFaba

Aquafaba can be used in various culinary applications, including baking, cooking, and even creating vegan desserts. Here are some popular ways to incorporate aqua faba into your recipes:

1. Egg Replacer in Baking

Aquafaba can be used as a direct replacement for eggs in many baking recipes, such as cakes, cookies, and muffins. The general rule of thumb is to replace one egg with three tablespoons of aqua faba. However, it's essential to adjust the liquid content in the recipe accordingly to maintain the desired consistency.

For example, if a recipe calls for three eggs, you would use nine tablespoons of aqua faba. Whisk the aqua faba until it becomes frothy and then add it to the recipe as you would with eggs. The result is often a moist and fluffy baked good, similar to those made with traditional eggs.

2. Vegan Meringues and Marshmallows

Aquafaba is a game-changer when it comes to making vegan meringues and marshmallows. Whip the aqua faba until it forms stiff peaks, similar to how you would whip egg whites. Gradually add sugar and any desired flavorings while continuing to whip until the mixture becomes glossy and holds its shape.

For meringues, you can spoon or pipe the mixture onto a baking sheet and bake at a low temperature until they are crisp on the outside. For vegan marshmallows, you can add vegan gelatin or agar-agar to help set the mixture before cutting it into desired shapes.

3. Vegan Mayo and Dressings

Aqua faba can also be used to create creamy and vegan-friendly mayonnaise and dressings. By whisking aqua faba with oil, vinegar or lemon juice, and seasonings, you can achieve a thick and emulsified consistency similar to traditional mayo. This versatile base can then be used as a spread, dressing, or dip.

4. Vegan Ice Cream

Believe it or not, aqua faba can even be used to make vegan ice cream. By combining whipped aqua faba with a sweetened base of your choice, such as coconut milk or cashew cream, you can create a light and airy ice cream mixture. Freeze the mixture and churn it in an ice cream maker for a delicious plant-based frozen treat.

5. Cocktails and Mocktails

This vegan alternative to egg whites has gained popularity among mixologists for its unique properties that allow it to create foams, emulsify ingredients, and add a silky texture to drinks. One of the most popular uses of aquafaba in cocktails is in the creation of foams. By simply whisking or shaking aquafaba with other ingredients, bartenders can achieve a frothy, meringue-like foam that adds a visually appealing and velvety texture to the drink.

This foam can be used as a topping for cocktails such as sours, fizzes, and flips, giving them an elegant and professional touch. Aquafaba also acts as an emulsifier, helping to bind ingredients together and create a smooth and well-balanced cocktail. It can be used to create creamy and rich cocktails like the classic Whiskey Sour or the famous Ramos Gin Fizz. We used aquafaba in our Fig Sour Cocktail recipe and it worked beautifully.

The addition of aquafaba not only enhances the texture but also adds a subtle nutty flavor that complements a wide range of spirits. For those who prefer non-alcoholic beverages, aquafaba can also be used in mocktails to create a similar foam and texture.

Aqua Faba - Egg Replacer

Aqua faba has opened up a world of possibilities for those following a plant-based diet or looking for egg alternatives in their recipes. Its unique properties make it a versatile ingredient in baking, cooking, and dessert-making. Whether you're a vegan, vegetarian, or simply curious about exploring new ingredients, aqua faba is worth experimenting with in your culinary adventures.