There have been a number of times in my life when, in casual conversation, I mention amino acids and have been met with the following reply:

"What's an amino?"

And then I usually make this face:

After I take a deep breath and reel in my wide-eyed amazement, I explain.

Amino acids are the building blocks of protein. There are a bunch of amino acids but 8 of them are considered "essential" amino acids. That is, the human body requires them in order to function properly. And--oh yeah--our bodies can't actually produce those amino acids, so we have to get them from our diet.

This is perhaps the crux of the biggest question that many meat-eaters ask vegetarians and vegans. "Where do you get your protein?" Everyone seems to understand that the body needs protein in order to survive, but a lot of people don't understand that it's those key essential amino acids that veg-heads really need to pay attention to. And it's not just about building muscle and all that. Amino acids also act as precursors to other enzymatic and hormonal functions of the body, such as serotonin which regulates mood, appetite and sleep patterns. So these little aminos are pretty darn important!

So, what foods contain amino acids? Your average omnivore Joe will get his essential amino acids from milk, eggs, meat, poultry and fish. Since vegans don't consume any of those products, we're pretty much stuck with soy products as a primary source of essential amino acids, since it's the plant source most readily available that contains the essential acids.

If you're interested in seeing some numbers, the Vegetarian Resource Group has great charts that show protein content in different plant-based foods, as well as a chart specifically focused on essential amino acids. I don't like to obsess over numbers. I prefer to just enjoy my food! So instead of worrying about whether I'm getting all my essential amino acids, I just keep a big ol' bottle of Bragg's Liquid Aminos in my pantry--and use it liberally.

See? There it is. Right up front.


Liquid Aminos has a flavor that is difficult to describe and utterly addictive. It's a bit salty but not like soy sauce, though it does impart a unique, earthy taste to your dishes. So, how should you use it?

• With or in place of soy sauce in soups and sauces
• In vegetable stir fry
• Sprinkled over rich dishes, like polenta or creamy pasta
• Spritzed on salads of dark greens and root veggies
• As part of a marinade for tofu, tempeh or seitan
• On oven-roasted potato wedges

Can you think of another ways to add Liquid Aminos to your meals?

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