Vegan cheese has come a long way, offering delicious, creamy, and melty alternatives to dairy cheese. Whether you’re looking for a cheese spread, sliceable block, or gooey topping for pizza, this guide will show you how to make homemade vegan cheese with simple ingredients and great flavor.
Key Ingredients for Vegan Cheese
To achieve the right texture and taste, the following ingredients are commonly used:
- Cashews or Almonds – Provide a creamy base for cheese.
- Coconut Milk – Adds richness and helps with melting.
- Agar-Agar or Tapioca Starch – Helps create a stretchy, firm texture.
- Nutritional Yeast – Gives a cheesy, umami flavor.
- Lemon Juice or Apple Cider Vinegar – Adds tanginess, similar to aged cheese.
- Garlic & Onion Powder – Enhance flavor depth.
- Miso Paste or Mustard – Adds a fermented, umami taste.
Recipe: Melty Vegan Cheese
Ingredients:
- 1 cup raw cashews (soaked for 2-4 hours)
- 1 ½ cups unsweetened coconut milk or almond milk
- ¼ cup nutritional yeast
- 2 tbsp tapioca starch (for stretchiness)
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp smoked paprika (optional)
- 1 tsp miso paste or Dijon mustard
- ½ cup water
Instructions:
- Blend Ingredients – In a high-speed blender, combine all ingredients until smooth.
- Cook the Mixture – Transfer to a saucepan and heat over medium, stirring constantly.
- Thicken & Stretch – As it heats, the mixture will start to thicken. Keep stirring until it becomes gooey and stretchy (about 5-7 minutes).
- Use or Store – Use immediately for nachos, grilled cheese, or pizza, or pour into a container and refrigerate for a firmer cheese.
Variations & Uses
- Sliceable Cheese: Add 1 tbsp agar-agar powder and let it set in the fridge for a firm texture.
- Spicy Cheese: Add chopped jalapeños or smoked chili powder.
- Herbed Cheese: Mix in dried oregano, thyme, or basil for an Italian-style flavor.
- Cheese Sauce: Use more plant milk for a thinner, pourable consistency.
Homemade vegan cheese is easy to make, customizable, and free from preservatives. With the right ingredients and techniques, you can create a delicious, melty, and dairy-free alternative for all your favorite dishes. Try it on pizza, pasta, or sandwiches and enjoy a plant-based cheesy delight!