Making the switch to dairy-free doesn’t mean leaving behind the creamy, comforting texture of cheese. This Easy Vegan Cheese Recipe, with a few simple ingredients, offers all the richness and flavor — no dairy required.
1cupraw cashewssoaked for at least 4 hours if not using a high-speed blender
2 ¼cupsunsweetened plant-based milk
2tablespoonsapple cider vinegar
1tablespoonlemon juice
¼cuptapioca flour
2tablespoonsnutritional yeast
2tablespoonswhite miso paste
1teaspoongarlic powder
1teaspoononion powder
1teaspoonsea salt
⅛teaspoonturmeric
10turnsblack pepper
Few drops of liquid smokeoptional, for a smoky flavor
Instructions
Soak cashews in water for 30 minutes, or overnight, or quick-soak by covering them with boiling water for 10 minutes. After either method, drain and rinse thoroughly.
Add all ingredients to a high-speed blender. Blend until completely smooth.
Pour the blended mixture into a saucepan. Cook over medium heat, whisking constantly, until the mixture thickens to a creamy, spreadable consistency, about 5–10 minutes.
Allow the cheese to cool slightly for a spreadable consistency. For a firmer cheese, refrigerate for a few hours before serving.
Notes
Short on time? A quick soak in just boiled water for 30 minutes works well too (with the heat off).