This article provides an overview of instant yeast, what it tastes like, its availability, alternative names, and of course what other ingredients make instant yeast substitutes.
What is Instant Yeast?
Instant yeast is a dried, live single-celled organism that is a modern variety of active dry yeast. It has been dried much quicker and is finer in consistency. It is favored in bread making, as, unlike its predecessor, it does not need to be activated to use, therefore it can be used straight out of the packet.
What does Instant Yeast taste like?
Instant yeast should not be eaten alone, its purpose is for structure in baking items such as bread. Once in a mixture, it has a typical yeast flavor and aroma.
Is Instant Yeast readily available in Supermarkets?
Instant yeast should be available in major supermarkets, it is typically found in the baking aisle next to other dry ingredients like baking powder and bread flour.
What are some alternative names for Instant Yeast?
Instant yeast is often referred to as quick-rise yeast, fast-acting yeast, or bread machine yeast, they are all the same thing.
What is a good substitute for Instant Yeast in recipes?
There are a number of substitutes for instant yeast however they aren’t a silver bullet as baking ingredient ratios need to be highly specific. Substitutes can include:
- Active Dry Yeast
- Baking Powder
- Baking Soda
- Sourdough Starter