Prep time: 10minutes | Servings: approx. 8
Whether you are a vegan, lactose intolerant, or simply looking for a healthier option, this recipe is bound to impress your taste buds. In this post I will be sharing a delicious vegan keshu cheese recipe that will satisfy your cheesy cravings. Made from simple, plant-based ingredients, this recipe is a perfect alternative to traditional dairy-based cheeses.
So, grab your apron and let's get started!
The Benefits of Vegan Cheese
Vegan cheese has been gaining popularity in recent years as more people embrace a plant-based lifestyle. But what exactly is vegan cheese, and what are the benefits of incorporating it into your diet?
Vegan cheese is a dairy-free alternative to traditional cheese that is made from plant-based ingredients such as nuts, seeds, and soy. It is often fortified with essential vitamins and minerals to ensure a balanced nutritional profile.
One of the main benefits of vegan cheese is its lower saturated fat content compared to traditional dairy cheese. Saturated fat is known to increase the risk of heart disease and other health problems. Vegan cheese also does not contain cholesterol, which is only found in animal-based products.
In addition to being healthier and more environmentally friendly, vegan cheese is also suitable for individuals with lactose intolerance or dairy allergy. It provides a delicious alternative for those who cannot consume dairy products.
Another advantage of vegan cheese is its versatility. It can be used in a wide range of dishes, from sandwiches and pizzas to pastas and salads. There are many different flavors and textures available, allowing you to find a vegan cheese that suits your preferences.
It is worth noting that while vegan cheese offers numerous benefits, it is important to choose varieties that are made from high-quality ingredients and are free from artificial additives. Reading labels carefully and opting for brands with a good reputation can help ensure you are getting the best possible product.
Getting Started: Key Ingredients and Tools for Vegan Cashew Cheese
Ingredients:
- 2 cups raw cashews, soaked overnight and drained
- 1/4 cup lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 2 tablespoons nutritional yeast
- 1/2 teaspoon sea salt
- 1/4 cup water (adjust as needed)
- Optional:
herbs (such as chives or dill) for flavor
Tools:
blender
Step-by-Step Vegan Cashew Cheese Recipe
1. In a food processor or high-speed blender, combine the soaked cashews, lemon juice, apple cider vinegar, nutritional yeast, and sea salt. Blend until the mixture becomes creamy and smooth.
2. Gradually add water, starting with 1/4 cup, while blending. Continue adding water until the desired consistency is reached. The texture should be similar to traditional cream cheese.
3. Taste the mixture and adjust the seasoning if needed. You can add more lemon juice, apple cider vinegar, or salt according to your preference.
4. If desired, add herbs like chives or dill to enhance the flavor. Blend again until well combined.
5. Transfer the cream cheese mixture to a glass or plastic container with an airtight lid. Place it in the refrigerator and allow it to chill for at least 2 hours, or until it has firmed up.
6. Once chilled and firm, your vegan keshu cream cheese is ready to be served. Spread it on toast, bagels, or use it as a dip or as a dressing for vegetables. Enjoy!
Note:
The cream cheese will continue to thicken as it chills, so don't worry if it seems slightly runny after blending.
It will last in the fridge for approximately 4 days, it tastes best on the 2nd-3rd day.
Tips and Tricks for Perfecting Your Vegan Cashew Cheese
You can add extra flavor according to your taste and occasion, for example, finely chopped fresh chives, dill, cilantro, fresh basil, roasted bell peppers, or your favorite spices like sweet pepper or cummin, basically anything your taste buds desire.
You can either chop the herbs and other ingredients into the cheese or blend it with the keshu for a totally different experience.
Once you make the cheese you can always add a little bit more water and use it as a dressing for your salads or add it to your favorite soup instead of a cream.
Serving Suggestions and Pairings
This recipe is my favorite and we make it at home quite often, but of course everything should be in moderation. Despite the fact that nuts have many necessary minerals and should certainly be part of our daily diet, they also contain a larger proportion of unsaturated fats, which are beneficial and welcome for our health, but contribute to weight gain when consumed more. If you are worried about this, the cheese can be made for example, with boiled and blended white beans, chickpeas or tofu.
Conclusion and Final Thoughts
This vegan cashew cream cheese recipe is a delicious and healthy alternative to traditional dairy-based cream cheese. By using simple ingredients and following the step-by-step instructions provided, you can create a creamy and flavorful spread that is perfect for any occasion. Whether you are following a vegan lifestyle or simply looking to incorporate more plant-based options into your diet, this cashew cream cheese is sure to be a hit. Give it a try and let us know what you think!
Nutritional Facts:
Cashew Sauce (per serving, assuming 8 servings):
Calories: Approximately 160-190 kcal
Total Fat: 13-16g
Saturated Fat: 3-4g
Monounsaturated Fat: 8-10g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 2-3g
Cholesterol: 0mg
Sodium: 150-200mg
Total Carbohydrates: 8-10g
Dietary Fiber: 1.5-2g
Sugars: 1.5-2g
Protein: 5-6g
As always, these values are rough estimates and can vary based on specific ingredients and their nutritional content. If precise nutritional information is required, consider using specific details from product labels or a nutrition calculator based on the exact measurements and ingredients you use. Adjustments to the amount of water may also impact the overall nutritional content.
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