Vegan, Oil-free, Gluten-free
A creamy, flavorful addition to any meal or snack.
Why Make Your Own Vegan Cheese?
Store-bought vegan cheeses are becoming more readily available, but they often come with a hefty price tag and sometimes questionable ingredients. By making your own vegan cheese at home, you not only save money but also have full control over what goes into it. This recipe uses wholesome ingredients that are packed with nutrients, making it a win-win for your taste buds and your health.
The Nutritional Powerhouse: Hemp Seed Base
The star ingredient in this recipe is hemp seeds, chosen for their rich nutritional profile. Hemp seeds are a great source of plant-based protein, omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, and various essential minerals. They lend a creamy texture and nutty flavor to the cheese, making it a satisfying alternative to traditional dairy-based spreads.
Homemade Spreadable Vegan Cheese Recipe
Ingredients
1/2 cup hemp seeds (or substitute with other nuts or seeds like cashews, almonds, or sunflower seeds)
3/4 cup water
3/4 cup unsweetened non-dairy milk (such as almond milk or soy milk)
3 tablespoons tapioca starch
1 1/2 tablespoons nutritional yeast
1 tablespoon lemon juice (or apple cider vinegar)
1/2-1 teaspoon garlic powder (adjust to taste)
1/4-1/2 teaspoon sea salt (adjust to taste)
add any other spices or sauces you like (we like to add crushed red pepper flakes or Sriracha)
Directions
1. Blend until Smooth:
• Place all ingredients into a high-speed blender and blend until completely smooth, approximately 5 minutes. If you don’t have a high-speed blender, blend until smooth and then transfer the mixture to a pot and cook over medium heat until it thickens, stirring constantly.
2. Thicken and Cool:
• Remember, the cheese will thicken further as it cools. Once smooth and thickened, pour the cheese into a glass container with a lid.
3. Chill and Enjoy:
• Allow the cheese to cool to room temperature before placing it in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to 5 days. Makes 2 cups of cheese.
Serving Suggestions
This creamy spreadable vegan cheese is incredibly versatile. Use it as a dip for raw vegetables or crackers, spread it on sandwiches or wraps, or dollop it onto pasta or baked potatoes. Its mild, tangy flavor pairs beautifully with a variety of dishes, adding a nutritious boost to your meals.
How to use it:
Add to pasta to make Mac and “Cheese”
Mix with brown rice, add beans, corn, salsa and spinach or other greens...
Use on nachos
Pour over steamed veggies
Eat with tortilla chips or baked pita wedges
Serve as a dip for raw or lightly steamed veggies
Make mushroom Stroganoff
Use in sandwiches
No animals were harmed during the creation of this recipe!
