Vegan baked inclusions can also add texture, taste and visual appeal to indulgent plant-based offerings, including non-dairy ice creams and desserts, baked goods, confectionery, and more.
Check out these tips for elevating your plant-based formulations:
![Article-3_Chickpeas-2_tumbling](https://chaucerfoods.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/Article-3_Chickpeas-2_tumbling.jpg)
1. For an extra boost of protein, consider formulating with freeze-dried pulses.
Chickpeas are one of the world’s most popular protein-packed pulses, and an essential ingredient for a wide range of vegan, vegetarian and plant-based foods. With a mild flavor profile that compliments other ingredients, freeze-dried chickpeas are the perfect addition for snack mixes, wraps, salads, bakery products, vegetarian burgers and dried savory dishes.
![Article-3_Black-Bean-1_tumbling](https://chaucerfoods.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/Article-3_Black-Bean-1_tumbling.jpg)
Black beans are another popular pulse ingredient, playing a central role in many global cuisines, including Latin American, Indian and Cajun dishes. They add heft and texture to plant-based meals without detracting from other flavor profiles, compliment a variety of other vegetable ingredients, and are an excellent vehicle for a wide range of spices. Freeze-dried black beans are also a healthy source of plant-based protein with applications in plant-based burgers, curries and stews.
![Article-3_Chaucer_Powder_Kale-Smoothie2-1](https://chaucerfoods.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/Article-3_Chaucer_Powder_Kale-Smoothie2-1.jpg)
2. For added nutrition and bright, vibrant color, blend freeze-dried fruit and vegetables
Freeze-dried fruit and vegetables are perfectly aligned with the trend toward functional, plant-based ingredients and a simpler label. Unlike other drying methods, the freeze-drying process preserves the shape, color and flavor of fruit and vegetables, as well as key nutrients. When used as an ingredient, inclusion, or topping, freeze-dried fruit and vegetables can add authentic nutrition and natural colors to a range of food and drink applications, including beverages, snacks, bakery, confectionery and dairy.
![MP_Chaucer_Smoothie-Melts_Cereal-1](https://chaucerfoods.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/MP_Chaucer_Smoothie-Melts_Cereal-1.jpg)
3. For bold flavors and texture, try freeze-dried smoothies
Chaucer’s freeze-dried fruit smoothie mixtures are a versatile way to add interest to new plant-based formulations. Smoothie pieces add a pop of color, flavor and texture to snack mixes and cereals, while freeze-dried smoothie powders can be used as an instant beverage mix or as a filling or coating in bars.
![Article-3_Chaucer_Sweet-Baked_Woopie-Pie](https://chaucerfoods.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/Article-3_Chaucer_Sweet-Baked_Woopie-Pie.jpg)
4. For extra indulgence, add vegan baked ingredients
All of Chaucer’s baked selections are made using authentic ingredients and contain no additives or artificial preservatives, supporting a simpler label. Many of the baked products are vegan, enabling product developers to formulate new and indulgent offerings for consumers adhering to a plant-based diet. Baked ingredients also have a low water content, which means they can be easily incorporated into any product recipe.
Whether you’re working on something new or reformulating to meet new trends, our expert and skilled R&D team can work with you to develop a high-quality, innovative product. Learn more about all of our freeze-dried and baked ingredient offerings, or contact us today at customer.services@chaucerfoods.com.