Name: Homemade Vegan Cheese Recipe
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 6 h 25 min
Yield: 4
Cuisine: International
Ingredients: ½ cup raw cashews; 1¼ cups water; 2 tbsp agar-agar powder; 1½ cups soy milk; 3 tbsp Almond Flour; 3 tbsp Vegetable Oil; 2 ½ tbsp miso; 1 tbsp lemon juice; 1 tbsp cider vinegar; ½ tsp salt; ½ tsp ground black pepper

Embark on a tasty adventure with this Homemade Vegan Cheese Delight recipe. A deliciously creamy and flavorful vegan alternative to regular cheese, this recipe uses a combination of cashews, miso, and almond flour to create a rich and satisfying texture that is perfect for spreading on crackers, melting on pizza, or just eating by the spoonful.

Photos of Homemade Vegan Cheese Recipe

This recipe calls for a few ingredients that may not be common in all kitchens, such as raw cashews, agar-agar powder, soy milk, almond flour, and miso. Raw cashews, often used in vegan cooking for their creamy texture when soaked and blended, are widely available in stores or online. Agar-agar powder, a vegan gelatin substitute, can typically be found in Asian supermarkets or health food stores. Almond flour, made from finely ground almonds, is a gluten-free alternative to wheat flour. Miso, a fermented soybean paste, adds a depth of flavor and can be found in the international aisle of many grocery stores.

Ingredients for Homemade Vegan Cheese Delight

Raw cashews: A great source of healthy fats and proteins, they give a creamy texture to our vegan cheese.

Water: Used to soak the cashews and dissolve the agar-agar powder.

Agar-agar powder: A plant-based gelatin substitute that helps to set the cheese.

Soy milk: Adds a creamy, smooth consistency.

Almond flour: A gluten-free alternative to regular flour, helps to thicken the mixture.

Vegetable oil: Keeps the cheese moist and aids in blending the ingredients.

Miso: Gives a savory, umami flavor.

Lemon juice: Adds tanginess to balance the creaminess.

Cider vinegar: Gives a sharper, deeper flavor.

Salt: Enhances the flavors of the other ingredients.

Ground black pepper: Adds a slight kick to the cheese.

One reader, Dudley Swank says:

This homemade vegan cheese delight is a game-changer! Creamy, flavorful, and versatile, it's perfect for pizzas, sandwiches, and more. The texture is spot on, and the taste is incredible. I love that it's made with wholesome ingredients. It's a must-try for anyone looking for a delicious dairy-free alternative.

Dudley Swank

Techniques Required for Making Homemade Vegan Cheese

How to soak cashews: Place cashews in a bowl and cover with water; soak for 4 hours or overnight. Drain before using.

How to dissolve agar-agar powder: In a saucepan, bring 1¼ cups of water to a boil over high heat. Add agar-agar powder and mix well until fully dissolved. Let it sit for 10 minutes before using.

How to blend ingredients: Combine the agar mixture, soy milk, almond flour, vegetable oil, miso, lemon juice, vinegar, salt, and pepper in a blender. Blend for about 3 minutes or until smooth and creamy.

How to thicken the mixture: Place the blended mixture in a saucepan over medium heat. Cook for 7 to 10 minutes, stirring constantly until it thickens.

How to chill and set: After cooking, place the mixture in small ramekins, cover with plastic wrap, and chill in the refrigerator for about 2 hours or until set.

How to grate: Once the mixture is set, grate it before using in your recipe.

How To Make Homemade Vegan Cheese

This vegan cheese recipe will let you enjoy all that creamy, melty goodness even if you’re on a plant-based diet. It doesn’t need a lot of ingredients, too!

Preparation: 5 minutes

Cooking: 10 minutes

Soak & Chill Time: 6 hours 10 minutes

Total: 6 hours 25 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

½cupraw cashews
1¼cupswater
2tbspagar-agar powder
1½cupssoy milk
3tbspalmond flour
3tbspvegetable oil
2 ½tbspmiso
1tbsplemon juice
1tbspcider vinegar
½tspsalt
½tspground black pepper

Instructions

Place cashews in a bowl and cover with water; soak for 4 hours or overnight. Drain.
Place 1¼ cups water in a saucepan over high heat; bring to a boil.
Add agar-agar powder and mix well until fully dissolved. Let it sit for 10 minutes.
Combine agar mixture, soy milk, almond flour, vegetable oil, miso, lemon juice, vinegar, salt, and pepper in a blender.
Blend for about 3 minutes or until smooth and creamy
Place mixture in a saucepan over medium heat.
Cook for 7 to 10 minutes, stirring constantly until it thickens.
Place in small ramekins, cover with plastic wrap and chill in the refrigerator for about 2 hours or until set.
Grate before using.

Nutrition

Calories: 300.27kcal
Fat: 24.43g
Saturated Fat: 4.06g
Trans Fat: 0.08g
Monounsaturated Fat: 12.60g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 3.69g
Carbohydrates: 14.14g
Fiber: 1.79g
Sugar: 6.61g
Protein: 8.54g
Cholesterol: 9.15mg
Sodium: 511.05mg
Calcium: 124.98mg
Potassium: 312.96mg
Iron: 1.60mg
Vitamin A: 42.59µg
Vitamin C: 1.56mg

Crucial Technique Tip for Homemade Vegan Cheese Delight

When making your homemade vegan cheese delight, it's important to remember that the soaking process for the raw cashews is crucial. This not only softens the cashews, making them easier to blend into a smooth and creamy texture, but it also helps to neutralize the phytic acid found in them. Phytic acid can make it harder for your body to absorb the nutrients in the cashews. So, don't skip this step! Also, when cooking the mixture, make sure to stir constantly to prevent it from sticking to the bottom of the pan and burning. Lastly, the setting process in the refrigerator is essential to achieve the desired firmness and texture of the cheese. Patience is key here!

Time-Saving Tips for Making Vegan Cheese Delight

Soak cashews: To save time, soak cashews in hot water for 30 minutes instead of the traditional 4 hours or overnight.

Quick chill: Instead of waiting for 2 hours, place the mixture in the freezer for 30 minutes to set.

Substitute Ingredients For Homemade Vegan Cheese Recipe

raw cashews - Substitute with blanched almonds: Blanched almonds can be used as a substitute for raw cashews to create a creamy texture and nutty flavor in the vegan cheese delight.
agar-agar powder - Substitute with vegan gelatin: Vegan gelatin can be used as a substitute for agar-agar powder to provide the same gelling properties in the vegan cheese delight recipe.
soy milk - Substitute with almond milk: Almond milk can be used as a substitute for soy milk to achieve a creamy and nutty flavor in the vegan cheese delight.
almond flour - Substitute with cashew flour: Cashew flour can be used as a substitute for almond flour to maintain a nutty flavor and texture in the vegan cheese delight.
vegetable oil - Substitute with coconut oil: Coconut oil can be used as a substitute for vegetable oil to add a hint of coconut flavor to the vegan cheese delight.
miso - Substitute with nutritional yeast: Nutritional yeast can be used as a substitute for miso to provide a savory, umami flavor in the vegan cheese delight.
lemon juice - Substitute with apple cider vinegar: Apple cider vinegar can be used as a substitute for lemon juice to add acidity and tanginess to the vegan cheese delight.
cider vinegar - Substitute with white wine vinegar: White wine vinegar can be used as a substitute for cider vinegar to provide a mild acidity in the vegan cheese delight.

Best Way to Present Homemade Vegan Cheese Delight

Elevate the plating: When presenting the homemade vegan cheese delight, focus on creating an elegant and visually appealing presentation. Use clean lines and minimalistic plating to showcase the creamy texture and delicate flavors of the cheese.
Incorporate vibrant colors: Introduce a pop of color to the plate with fresh edible flowers or microgreens. This will not only enhance the visual appeal but also add a touch of freshness to the dish.
Utilize contrasting textures: Pair the creamy vegan cheese with crunchy toasted nuts or crispy crackers to create a delightful contrast in textures, elevating the overall dining experience.
Artful drizzling: Incorporate a drizzle of high-quality balsamic reduction or truffle oil to add a touch of sophistication and depth of flavor to the dish.
Garnish with finesse: Finish the presentation with a sprinkle of smoked paprika or chopped herbs to add a final touch of flavor and visual interest to the dish.
Serve with artisanal bread: Accompany the vegan cheese delight with slices of freshly baked artisanal bread or gluten-free crackers to provide a delightful pairing and enhance the overall dining experience.

Essential Tools for Making Vegan Cheese at Home

Blender: A blender is used to blend the ingredients together to create a smooth and creamy mixture.
Saucepan: A saucepan is used to heat the agar-agar mixture and cook the cheese mixture over medium heat.
Ramekins: Ramekins are small individual-sized dishes used to set and chill the cheese mixture in the refrigerator.
Grater: A grater is used to grate the homemade vegan cheese delight before using.

Storing and Freezing Homemade Vegan Cheese

To store the vegan cheese, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container. It will keep in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
For longer storage, you can freeze the vegan cheese. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, then place it in a freezer-safe container or resealable plastic bag. Label the container or bag with the date and contents.
Vegan cheese can be frozen for up to 3 months. When ready to use, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight.
Once thawed, the texture of the vegan cheese may be slightly different, but it will still taste delicious. If the texture is too soft, you can place it in the freezer for a short time to firm it up before grating or slicing.
If you plan to use the vegan cheese in a cooked dish, such as a casserole or soup, you can add it directly to the dish while it's still frozen. It will thaw and melt as the dish cooks.

How To Reheat Leftover Vegan Cheese

The best way to reheat leftover homemade vegan cheese delight is to place it in a microwave-safe bowl and heat it in 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval, until it reaches the desired temperature. This method ensures that the cheese melts evenly and doesn't burn or become grainy.
Another option is to reheat the vegan cheese in a double boiler. Place the cheese in a heat-resistant bowl and set it over a pot of simmering water. Stir the cheese continuously until it melts and reaches the desired consistency. This gentle heating method prevents the cheese from overheating and separating.
If you prefer a firmer texture, you can also reheat the vegan cheese in the oven. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C), place the cheese in an oven-safe dish, and heat it for 5-10 minutes, or until it's warmed through and slightly melted. Keep an eye on the cheese to ensure it doesn't burn or dry out.
For a quick and easy option, you can also reheat the vegan cheese in a non-stick skillet over low heat. Stir the cheese constantly to prevent sticking and burning, and remove it from the heat once it reaches the desired consistency.
Regardless of the reheating method you choose, it's essential to avoid overheating the vegan cheese, as this can cause it to become grainy, oily, or separated. Always reheat the cheese slowly and gently, stirring frequently, to maintain its smooth and creamy texture.

Interesting Fact About Vegan Cheese Making

Agar-agar is a vegetarian gelatin substitute derived from seaweed. It is commonly used in vegan cheese recipes to help create a firm texture without the need for animal-based products.

Is Making Vegan Cheese at Home Cost-Effective?

This homemade vegan cheese delight recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. The use of simple, affordable ingredients like raw cashews, soy milk, and agar-agar powder makes it budget-friendly. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people would be around $10, making it an economical choice. The delightful flavor and versatility of this vegan cheese make it a great addition to various dishes. I would rate this recipe a solid 8 for its affordability and delicious results.

Is This Vegan Cheese Recipe Healthy or Unhealthy?

This vegan cheese recipe has some healthy ingredients, such as:

Cashews, which are rich in healthy fats, protein, and minerals
Soy milk, a good source of plant-based protein
Almond flour, providing healthy fats and fiber
Miso, offering probiotics and beneficial enzymes

However, there are a few aspects that could be improved:

The recipe contains a significant amount of oil, which is high in calories and may not be ideal for those watching their calorie intake
The sodium content might be a bit high due to the miso and added salt

To make this recipe even healthier, consider the following suggestions:

Reduce the amount of oil used or replace it with a healthier alternative like coconut oil or avocado oil
Decrease the amount of added salt and rely more on the natural saltiness of the miso paste
Incorporate more nutritious ingredients, such as herbs, spices, or vegetables, to boost the flavor and nutrient profile of the cheese
Experiment with different types of nuts or seeds, like sunflower or pumpkin seeds, to vary the nutrient content and flavor
Serve the vegan cheese with whole grain crackers, fresh fruits, or vegetable crudités to make it a well-rounded and nutritious snack

Editor's Opinion on This Vegan Cheese Recipe

This homemade vegan cheese delight recipe is a delightful and innovative take on vegan cheese. The combination of cashews, soy milk, and miso creates a rich and creamy texture, while the addition of agar-agar gives it a firm and sliceable consistency. The use of almond flour adds a nutty undertone, and the blend of lemon juice and cider vinegar provides a tangy and zesty flavor profile. Overall, this recipe offers a delicious and versatile vegan cheese alternative that can be used in a variety of dishes.

Enhance Your Homemade Vegan Cheese Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Garlic Roasted Asparagus: Toss asparagus with olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper, then roast until tender and slightly crispy.

Mango Avocado Salad: Combine ripe mango, creamy avocado, red onion, and cilantro in a zesty lime dressing for a refreshing and colorful salad.

Coconut Curry Cauliflower: Roast cauliflower florets in a rich and aromatic coconut curry sauce until tender and caramelized for a flavorful and satisfying side dish.

Similar Vegan Cheese Recipes to Try

Creamy Butternut Squash Soup: This creamy butternut squash soup is the perfect comfort food for a cozy night in. The combination of roasted butternut squash, onions, and garlic creates a rich and velvety texture that will warm you up from the inside out.

Mouthwatering BBQ Pulled Jackfruit: This mouthwatering BBQ pulled jackfruit is a vegan twist on a classic favorite. The jackfruit is slow-cooked in a smoky and tangy BBQ sauce, then piled high on a bun for a satisfying and flavorful sandwich.

Decadent Chocolate Avocado Mousse: This decadent chocolate avocado mousse is a guilt-free dessert that will satisfy your sweet tooth. The creamy avocado creates a silky smooth texture, while the rich cocoa powder adds a deep chocolate flavor that you won't be able to resist.

Perfect Main Courses and Desserts to Pair With Vegan Cheese Delight

Main Courses:

Vegan Lasagna: Layered with savory marinara, creamy cashew ricotta, and tender vegetables, this vegan lasagna is a comforting and satisfying main course that will please even the most discerning palates.

Stuffed Bell Peppers: These vibrant bell peppers are filled with a flavorful mixture of quinoa, black beans, and spices, then baked to perfection. The result is a hearty and nutritious main course that is as visually stunning as it is delicious.

Desserts:

Chocolate Mousse: Indulge in a rich and creamy chocolate mousse, topped with a dollop of whipped coconut cream and a sprinkle of cocoa powder for an elegant and decadent dessert experience.

Berry Parfait: Layer juicy mixed berries with dairy-free yogurt and crunchy granola for a refreshing and satisfying parfait that's perfect for a light and healthy dessert option.

Why trust this Homemade Vegan Cheese Recipe:

This recipe offers a delectable vegan cheese delight that is rich in flavor and texture. The combination of cashews and soy milk creates a creamy base, while the addition of miso and lemon juice adds depth and complexity. The use of agar-agar ensures a firm and sliceable consistency, making it perfect for a variety of dishes. With the inclusion of almond flour and vegetable oil, this recipe promises a satisfying and indulgent experience for all vegan cheese enthusiasts.

Have you tried this homemade vegan cheese recipe? Share your experience and discuss any tips or modifications in the Recipe Sharing forum.

FAQ:

Can I use a different type of nut instead of cashews?

Yes, you can substitute raw cashews with raw almonds or macadamia nuts for a different flavor and texture.

Can I use a different type of milk instead of soy milk?

Absolutely! You can use almond milk, oat milk, or any other non-dairy milk of your choice as a substitute for soy milk.

Can I skip the agar-agar powder or use a different thickener?

Agar-agar is essential for setting the cheese, but if you prefer, you can use tapioca starch or arrowroot powder as a substitute. However, the texture and setting time may vary.

How long will the homemade vegan cheese last in the refrigerator?

The homemade vegan cheese can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 5-7 days. Make sure to keep it in an airtight container to maintain its freshness.

Can I freeze the homemade vegan cheese?

Yes, you can freeze the vegan cheese. It's best to slice or shred it before freezing for easier use. Thaw it in the refrigerator before using, and it should last for up to 3 months in the freezer.