Not everything needs protein. Strange way to start a blog post about using protein powder, but hear me out. I’m well aware that protein, like its fellow macro-nutrients fat and carbohydrates, are essential for life. Protein helps with wound healing, muscle growth, skin elasticity, bone density, and so much more. These are solid facts. What isn’t beneficial, however, are the lower-quality proteins that manufacturers are cramming into every processed food and drink that crosses their paths. Collagen, for example, cannot be absorbed intact when consumed, making it a much less helpful protein than any plant-based option, despite the immense hype surrounding it.
Peak Protein
We have reached a fever pitch where protein is being shoehorned into sodas, water, and gummy bears. At this stage of peak protein, anything marginally consumable comes in a protein-enhanced version. As a proponent of balanced nutrition, protein absolutely has it’s place, but this litany of processed Frankenfoods is not it. I prefer to keep my protein at the center of the plate.
Naked Nutrition, Naked Truth
When I need a little extra boost, especially in gluten free baking or savory cooking, I look for actual food sources. This is where Naked Pea from Naked Nutrition comes into play. This is one of the few powders that makes sense in my kitchen because it is exactly what it says on the package, with nothing to hide.
100% yellow pea protein is the only ingredient. You won’t find any:
- Sugar or alternative sweeteners
- Added flavors
- Thickeners or emulsifiers
- Gluten
- Soy
- Dairy
- Dubious health claims
Eat Real Food
Although you could absolutely mix it into smoothies or shakes, I see it more as a pantry staple, worthy of a place in your cabinet right next to the flour and spices.
Naked Pea unflavored protein powder has proven indispensable in everyday meals. There’s no need to drink meal replacement shakes when you can simply add a spoonful to soups, stews, even salad dressings. A light coating can replace flour or cornstarch when making crispy tofu or air-fried mushrooms, creating a golden, crunchy exterior that packs a protein punch. You can seamlessly slip a serving or two into your standard pancake or waffle batter without even picky eaters catching on. Such neutrality afford the cunning cook a nutritional boost, without sacrificing flavor.
Beyond the Blender
If you’re tired of slogging through chalky, cloying liquid meals to make your “gains,” Naked Pea is the way to get protein back on the table, where it belongs. Taking inspiration from the single-ingredient powerhouse, I turned to southern Peas and Dumplings to highlight the prowess of such a versatile powder. Similar to chicken and dumplings, it’s a thrifty answer to stretching a limited harvest, especially when meat was scarce. The most basic recipes simmer canned peas in bouillon and drop refrigerated biscuit dough on top for a quick, comforting, and hearty meal.
Every bit as easy to whip up from scratch without relying on store-bought shortcuts, a blend of chickpea flour and Naked Pea protein powder creates a soft, supple dough that practically melts in your mouth. No rolling necessary, you just drop dollops into the sea of simmering peas where it soaks in the buttery, lemon-flecked broth. A touch of fresh mint adds brightness, cutting through the savory richness for a finish that feels light despite being incredibly filling.
For all its verdant vibrancy, I’ll be the first to admit that this dish is not a looker. One could generously describe it as “rustic,” an underhanded compliment I loathe most in the food world. What it lacks in visual polish, it more than makes up for in flavor and substance. Each spoonful delivers tender dumplings, pops of sweet peas, and the undeniable satisfaction of a wholesome, high-protein meal.
Give Peas a Chance
By using the protein powder as a genuinely functional ingredient rather than a supplement, the push to get enough protein shifts from chore to culinary delight. Food is fuel, health is wealth, and all those other slogans; food is also flavor, joy, and comfort. Start with the right ingredients, and you can have it all.
High Protein Peas & Dumplings
Get cozy with a southern classic, enhanced with an incredible punch of plant-based protein. Who needs meat to get their macros? Even if you're not working on any fitness goals, you'll love this healthy, hearty entree that's bursting with fresh flavor.
Ingredients
Protein Dumplings:
- 1/2 Cup Naked Pea Protein
- 1/2 Cup Chickpea Flour
- 2 Tablespoons Whole Psyllium Husk
- 1 Teaspoon Dried Dill
- 1 Teaspoon Baking Powder
- 1/2 Teaspoon Salt
- 1 Cup Water
Simmered Peas:
- 2 Tablespoons Vegan Butter
- 1 Large Shallot, Finely Diced
- 3 Cloves Garlic, Minced
- 2 Cups Vegan Chicken Broth or Vegetable Stock
- 1 Pound Frozen Peas
- 2 Tablespoons Lemon Juice
- 1/2 Teaspoon Salt
- 1/4 Teaspoon Ground Black Pepper
- 1/4 Cup Lightly Packed Fresh Mint, Julienned
- 1 Teaspoon Lemon Zest
Instructions
- In a large bowl, whisk together the pea protein powder, chickpea flour, psyllium husk, dill, baking powder, and salt. Once combined, pour in the water and mix with a wide spatula. The mixture should come together in a slightly crumbly but cohesive dough. Pinch off small balls about 1-inch in diameter, pressing them together and rolling them mostly smooth between the palms of your hands. Place them on a plate and set aside.
- Place a medium saucepan over medium heat and add the vegan butter. Once melted, add the shallot and garlic, sautéing for 3 - 5 minutes until translucent and aromatic. Pour in the broth or stock and bring to a simmer. Add the peas, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Cook until the peas have thawed; about 2 - 4 minutes.
- Gently place the dumplings into the simmering pot of peas. It's okay if they're not covered by the liquid. Cover the pot and continue to simmer, reducing the heat as needed, for another 5 - 6 minutes. The dumplings will be very delicate, but should look glossy on the surface.
- Turn off the heat and top with mint and lemon zest. Carefully scoop the dumplings and peas into bowls to prevent break up the dumplings, and enjoy!
Recommended Products
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Nutrition Information:
Yield:
4Serving Size:
1Amount Per Serving: Calories: 260Total Fat: 8gSaturated Fat: 4gUnsaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 0mgSodium: 1231mgCarbohydrates: 32gFiber: 13gSugar: 10gProtein: 20g
All nutritional information presented within this site are intended for informational purposes only. I am not a certified nutritionist and any nutritional information on BitterSweetBlog.com should only be used as a general guideline. This information is provided as a courtesy and there is no guarantee that the information will be completely accurate. Even though I try to provide accurate nutritional information to the best of my ability, these figures should still be considered estimations.