Curious about just egg? Learn what it is, how to cook it, and decide if it fits your lifestyle.
Introduction
More people than ever want to reduce or skip real eggs. Sometimes, they hope to cut back on certain foods for health reasons. Other times, they’re avoiding animal products completely. If that sounds like you, just egg might be on your radar. It’s a plant-based alternative that claims to taste and cook much like a classic egg. But how do you use it? Does it really work for all the recipes you love?
In the sections below, you’ll learn about its background, nutritional notes, cooking techniques, and the benefits and drawbacks. You’ll also get quick ideas for whipping up tasty meals. By the end, you’ll have the knowledge you need to decide if you want to pick up a bottle (or two) for your next grocery trip. Let’s dig in. if you more breakfast recipes click here.
What Is Just Egg?
Just egg is a liquid egg substitute made from plants. Its creators set out to produce a product that would resemble the familiar flavor and texture of scrambled or beaten eggs. Instead of coming from chickens, this version relies on proteins drawn from legumes. The brand’s main source is the mung bean, though other components also help replicate the springy texture you’d expect from classic eggs.
How It Compares to Conventional Eggs
If you’re used to cracking shells in your morning routine, turning to a liquid plant-based option might feel strange. Here’s a quick comparison:
- Source: Instead of being laid by hens, it’s crafted using legumes and other plant derivatives.
- Consistency: The product pours like a loose batter and thickens when heated, similar to a beaten egg.
- Taste: Many people say it carries a mild, savory flavor. Some find it slightly bean-like.
- Color: It often appears yellowish to mimic real eggs and might contain coloring agents to achieve that hue.
Why People Choose It
For someone allergic to real eggs or following a vegan lifestyle, just egg can be a godsend. Others simply want to reduce their consumption of animal-based foods or lighten their environmental footprint.
Nutritional Overview
You might wonder if just egg can hold its own against real eggs in terms of protein or other nutritional factors.
- Protein Content: Each serving usually has a moderate amount of protein. It might not match the protein of standard eggs exactly, but it gets quite close.
- Fat Profile: Since it’s made from legumes and oil, the fats differ from those in real eggs. Reading the label helps you see the breakdown of each type of fat.
- Cholesterol and Saturated Fat: Many users note that just egg has no dietary cholesterol. That can be a win for those watching heart health.
- Micronutrients: Real eggs bring a range of vitamins and minerals, including some not commonly found in plants. By contrast, just egg might have fortifying elements, but the specifics vary across product lines.
Ultimately, just egg can fit into many diets. If you’re aiming for a protein boost minus certain elements of animal-based eggs, this might be appealing.
How to Cook with Just Egg
Scrambles and Omelets
The most common approach is to treat just egg like a beaten egg. First, grease your pan lightly with oil or margarine. Next, pour in the liquid and stir it gently over medium heat. As it starts to firm up, you’ll notice curds forming similar to scrambled eggs. If you prefer an omelet, reduce the stirring and let the base set before folding it with fillings like spinach or tomatoes.
Tips for Best Results
- Use Medium Heat: Too high can cause scorching.
- Stir Occasionally: Break it up into fluffy curds if you like a soft scramble.
- Season Generously: Adding salt, pepper, or a sprinkle of turmeric can enhance flavor and appearance.
Baking and Batters
If you enjoy baking, just egg may help replace real eggs in certain recipes. The product can bind and provide moisture, which is particularly helpful in cakes, muffins, and quick breads.
However, it may not always replicate the exact airy lift created by real eggs. If the recipe depends heavily on whipped egg whites, you might face issues. Some bakers recommend combining just egg with other egg replacers or leaveners if you’re going for a super fluffy outcome.
Stir-Fries and Fried Rice
This plant-based egg also works well in dishes like fried rice. After lightly cooking it into a scramble, remove from the pan, then proceed with the rest of your stir-fry. Reintroduce the scrambled bits later, and you’ll have a dish reminiscent of traditional egg fried rice.
Benefits and Appeal of Just Egg
Plant-Based Focus
For those committed to plant-based eating, just egg offers a straightforward egg stand-in without the need to rely on tofu scramble or chickpea flour mixtures. The brand has done the experimentation for you, making it easier to replicate typical egg dishes.
Allergy-Friendly Potential
Egg allergies can be serious. Just egg can often let people with such allergies enjoy scrambled “eggs” without worry. However, always double-check labels if you have any other specific allergies.
Environmental and Ethical Factors
Egg farming has environmental implications, from water usage to greenhouse gas outputs. Just egg aims to sidestep the resource-intensive nature of conventional egg production. While it’s still a processed product, some consumers consider it a more sustainable choice. The brand also promotes an animal-friendly ethos by offering a product not derived from chickens.
Convenience
No shells. No cracking. You just pour and go. That convenience alone can attract people who want something quick and consistent. Also, it stores easily in a fridge door, ready for spur-of-the-moment meals.
Potential Drawbacks egg substitute
Price Point
A major concern is cost. Traditional eggs can be quite budget-friendly. Meanwhile, a bottle of just egg can cost significantly more per serving. If you plan to use it daily, the expense adds up. On the other hand, if it’s an occasional treat, the price might not bother you.
Taste Differences
It comes close to real eggs, but it’s not identical. Some notice a slight bean aftertaste or a texture they describe as “softer” than real eggs. In strongly seasoned dishes, you might not notice. If you’re sensitive to subtle differences, you may need time to adjust or extra spices.
Limited Availability
Depending on where you live, you might only find just egg at specialty stores or large supermarkets. Smaller grocery outlets may not carry it. Online ordering is possible, but shipping perishable items often involves additional fees and packaging concerns.
Not Perfect for All Recipes
Recipes that rely heavily on foamed egg whites, like meringues or airy soufflés, might not be straightforward with just egg. Some bakers experiment with it, but it can require trial and error or extra add-ins to replicate the unique structure provided by real egg whites.
Recipe Inspiration egg substitute
Morning Scramble
- Ingredients:
- Just egg
- Chopped onions, bell peppers, and spinach
- Salt, pepper, and a bit of garlic powder
- Method:
- Sauté onions and peppers.
- Pour in just egg and stir.
- Fold in spinach near the end.
- Season to taste.
Serve with toast and a side of avocado for a refreshing, protein-packed breakfast.
Veggie Omelet
- Basic Steps:
- Heat a nonstick pan.
- Pour enough just egg to create a thin layer.
- Let it set briefly, then add your veggies of choice (mushrooms, diced tomatoes, etc.).
- Fold once the edges begin to lift.
Baked Muffins
- Why It Works:
- Just egg adds moisture and binding qualities to muffin batter.
- Pro Tip:
- Consider adding a pinch more baking powder if you worry about fluffiness.
Stir-Fried Rice
- Approach:
- First, scramble a portion of just egg and set aside.
- Sauté leftover cooked rice with garlic, soy sauce, and veggies.
- Add the scrambled pieces back near the end.
This approach resembles a classic egg-fried rice, with minimal differences in taste or texture.
Conclusion
Just egg is a convenient, plant-based way to replicate the experience of cooking with eggs. It can be scrambled, folded into omelets, or used in many baked goods. That said, it’s not a carbon copy. You might pay more, notice taste differences, or find it’s not ideal for certain recipes needing the structure real eggs provide. However, if you’re looking for a reliable substitute—particularly if you’re allergic, vegan, or simply exploring alternatives—it’s an option worth trying.
Experimenting with various seasonings and cooking methods can help you unlock new meal ideas. You might discover that a dash of your favorite spice or sauce helps just egg truly shine. If you decide to give it a go, enjoy the process of branching out, testing flavors, and perfecting your new, egg-free repertoire.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
how much just egg equals one egg?
Typically, about three or four tablespoons of just egg replace one large chicken egg. If you have the standard bottle, that often means around three tablespoons is the recommended swap. Always check the label or official instructions for exact guidance.
what is just egg made of?
Just egg relies on proteins extracted from mung beans to mimic the consistency of real eggs. It includes other supporting elements like water, canola oil, and seasonings. The brand might add coloring or flavor enhancers to give it a more egg-like look and taste.
is just egg healthy?
It contains a decent amount of protein and no dietary cholesterol. Some people like the lower impact on heart health compared to real eggs. However, it’s still a processed item. If you’re watching your fat or sodium intake, check the nutritional panel. The best approach is to see if it fits your dietary requirements and speak with a nutrition professional if needed.
is just egg gluten free?
Yes, just egg does not include wheat-based components. Because of that, it’s generally considered suitable for gluten-avoiding diets. Still, check packaging for disclaimers if you have a severe wheat issue or sensitive celiac condition, since cross-contamination can happen in some manufacturing facilities.