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Best Substitute For Hemp Hearts.


In this article, you will learn about this seed and discover the best substitute for hemp hearts. Hemp hearts are a great way to start your mornings. They are delicious, versatile, and packed with nutrients.

There are many ways to enjoy hemp hearts. You can add them to your cereal or use them to level up your protein shake. Ultimately, below we’ll answer all your questions about this popular seed.

teaspoon filled with hemp hearts

What Are Hemp Hearts?

Hemp hearts, sometimes called hemp seeds, come from the hemp plant. At first glance, they look like quinoa or chia seeds. They are tiny oval-shaped seeds that range from white to green in color. You can find them in well-stocked grocery stores in the nuts and seeds section.

Hemp hearts have a subtle flavor. When cooked, the seeds have an earthy or nutty flavor. They have flaky, dry, and crunchy textures. However, they work great as toppings for many savory dishes. Others like to sprinkle hemp hearts over their salads or oatmeal. You can add them as fillers for vegan recipes. 

Hemp hearts are quite healthy. They are rich in fiber and protein content. They have healthy fats, vital minerals, and nine essential amino acids. These seeds help promote good overall heart health.

Although hemp hearts are popular, they aren’t available in all stores. These seeds are often expensive, and you’ll have to resort to substitutes.    

The hemp plant is closely related to the marijuana plant. They both come from the same species, which is the Cannabis Sativa plant. Marijuana plants have at least 30% THC levels. This is the compound that makes people feel “high.” It can also produce mind-altering effects. However, the hemp plant only contains less than 0.3% THC levels, so it’s highly unlikely will have any effect.

Best Hemp Heart Substitute

Many breakfast recipes include using this seed. You can always look for a handy substitute for hemp hearts if you are short on stock. Due to its mild flavors, there are many alternatives you can find at the supermarket. Here are 6 excellent substitutes for hemp seeds.

1. Flax Seeds.

Flax seed comes from the common flax plant, also known as linseed. They were first cultivated in Asia but are now known all across the globe. Regarding their physical qualities, flax seeds are similar to hemp hearts. However, they come in brown or golden colors, unlike the white coat of the hemp seeds.

Flax seeds are the best hemp seed substitute. This is because they are close in flavor. Like hemp hearts, flax seeds also have mild earthy and nutty flavors. If you opt for golden flax seeds, you’ll even get a hint of a buttery taste. 

Flax seeds don’t have lysine, a vital amino acid, unlike hemp seeds. But if you’re in a pinch, you can replace hemp seeds with flax seeds in a recipe. These seeds are also available in most supermarkets.

2. Pumpkin Seeds.

Another great substitute for hemp heart seeds is pumpkin seeds. You can harvest these seeds yourself from a bought pumpkin. You can also buy them pre-packaged at the supermarket.

Pumpkin seeds are bigger than hemp seeds and are green or white in color. They are often roasted and served as a snack or added to recipes. Just like hemp hearts, pumpkin seeds have nutty and sweet flavors. To use them as a hemp heart alternative, we recommend finely chopping the seeds before using them. This way, you get to copy the similar texture of the hemp hearts.

Unluckily, pumpkin seeds aren’t a complete protein source. So if you’re looking for a protein substitute for hemp hearts, they may not be the best choice. However, pumpkin seeds will do if you’re only after the flavors and textures. 

3. Sesame Seeds.

Sesame seeds can also be a good substitute for hemp hearts. Although these seeds are not from the same species, they are both edible seeds. They even share the same looks. Sesame seeds look just like hemp hearts except for the green flecks.

When it comes to flavor, sesame seeds have the same earthy or nutty tastes. The only difference is that sesame seeds are also almond-like in flavor. They also have the same crunchy exterior, especially when they’re roasted. 

So they work great as hemp seed replacements. Aside from the typical breakfast foods, you can also use sesame seeds for desserts. You can sprinkle them on top of freshly baked bread. In other cuisines, the seeds are also used to create sesame oil.

4. Chia Seeds.

If you’re wondering what else you can use to substitute hemp seeds, the answer is chia seeds. You’ve probably seen these seeds in many vegan and healthy recipes. Unlike hemp hearts, chia seeds are tinier and come in gray or black colors. So if you’re using them as an alternative, make sure to use twice as much.

Chia seeds boast the same flavors and texture as hemp hearts. This is why they’re often used in smoothie recipes. The extra crunch gives you a satisfying meal. The visual appeal of the seeds is also popular.

Even though chia seeds are rich in fiber, they aren’t the best source of protein. That’s why you need to eat twice as much if you’re using it as a protein source instead of hemp seeds.

5. Almond Meal.

Another food you can substitute for hemp hearts is an almond meal. This is also referred to as almond flour. The difference between almond meal and almond flour is that the former is coarser in texture. However, they have the same earthy and nutty flavors as hemp hearts.

When using it as a hemp seed alternative, we recommend using an almond meal for its rich texture. You can also use almond meal when making sweet treats. You can do this by chopping roasted almonds or using a food processor. But if you have nut allergies, we highly discourage using almonds as a substitute.

6. Desiccated Coconut.

In case you didn’t know, desiccated coconut is a decent substitute for hemp seeds. Desiccated coconut is fresh coconut that you shred, flake, or dry. This is the most experimental of all the replacements on this list.

Unlike hemp seeds, desiccated coconut is sweeter and more savory. It has a slightly wet yet flaky texture and works great with desserts. If you’re replacing hemp seeds in a recipe, desiccated coconut will give it a sweeter taste. If you don’t mind the sweet treat, feel free to use it as an alternative.

Uses of Hemp Hearts in Recipes

Hemp seeds are delicious and nutrient-packed. They’re also highly versatile, and you can use them for various recipes. Hemp hearts are popular as toppings for salads, cereals, or breakfast smoothies. You can use them for vegan recipes such as vegetable burger patties. When it comes to dessert, hemp seeds provide a range of nutty flavors. 

What Do Hemp Hearts Do in Baking?

Hemp hearts add a layer of earthy and nutty flavors to baked goods.

Can You Substitute Hemp Hearts for Oatmeal?

Yes, you can substitute hemp hearts for oatmeal.

Is Hemp Seed and Flaxseed the Same Thing?

No, hemp seed comes from the hemp plant, while flax seed comes from the common flax plant.

What Is the Difference Between Hemp Seeds and Marijuana?

Hemp seeds don’t contain the same THC levels as marijuana.

Why Are Hemp Hearts Expensive?

Hemp hearts are expensive because they aren’t sold widely.

What Is the Difference Between Hemp Seeds and Chia Seeds?

Chia seeds are smaller, darker in color, and have less protein content.

Can You Use Chia Seeds Instead of Hemp?

Yes, you can use chia seeds instead of hemp seeds. Their flavor and texture make them a good substitute for hemp hearts.

Do Hemp Hearts Help You Lose Weight?

Hemp hearts are rich in fiber and protein. Adding them to your diet can help you lose weight by supporting a balanced diet.

What Does Hemp Hearts Do To Your Body?

Its high protein and fiber content help promote heart health.

Which Is Healthier Hemp Hearts, or Flax Seeds?

Hemp seeds are healthier because they have more fiber and protein than flax seeds.

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Natalia | Flavorful home
Natalia is a recipe developer, food photographer, and home cook. She started Flavorful Home to document her recipes and share home cooking tips. She loves creating flavorful and nutritious meals while keeping the cooking process simple and joyful!
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1 Comment to Best Substitute For Hemp Hearts.
Dexter Lorenzo

Thank you for sharing this information on alternative substitute for Hemp Hearts.

01/24/23 @ 2:02 PMReply

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