Are you tired of feeling guilty after indulging in your favourite cheesy dishes? Or you’re lactose intolerant and have missed the joys of cheese altogether.
Well, we’ve got some good news for you – it’s easier than ever to replace dairy with delicious plant-based cheeses! This post shows you how to satisfy your cheesy cravings without compromising flavour or texture. So get ready to explore a new world of cheesy goodness that’s kinder to animals and the planet!
What are plant-based cheeses?
Various plant-based cheeses are available on the market, each with its unique flavour and texture. Here are five popular types:
1. Tofu cheese
Tofu cheese is a versatile vegan cheese option that can replace dairy cheese in dishes like macaroni and cheese or lasagna. It has a silky, smooth texture and a nutty, earthy flavour that can be enhanced with spices like onion powder or garlic powder.
2. Cashew cheese
Cashew cheese is made from ground cashews and usually has a slightly sweet, tangy flavour that pairs well with savoury dishes like grilled vegetables or pasta sauces. It’s also great for making vegan crepes or French toast, as it has a light, fluffy texture.
3. Hemp cheese
Hemp cheese is made from hemp seeds and can have a firm, nutty consistency that can vary depending on how it’s prepared. It often tastes earthy and goes great in hummus or salad dressings. Hemp cheeses are also environmentally friendly as they don’t require any water to prepare them, making them sustainable options for eaters.
4. Mozzarella-style vegan cheeses
Mozzarella-style vegan cheeses are made from soy milk, water, yeast, salt and sometimes vegetable oil to create the desired consistency and flavour profile. They can be used in dishes like lasagna or pizza and are often paired with herbs and spices for added flavour.
5. Tofu Ricotta Cheese
Tofu Ricotta Cheese is the most popular type of vegan cheese, as it can be used in various dishes to replace traditional dairy cheese. It has a soft, silky texture and a sweet, tangy flavour that can be enhanced with spices like onion powder or garlic powder.
Types of plant-based cheeses
Many plant-based cheeses can be enjoyed as replacements for dairy cheese products. Some of the most popular varieties include vegan, cashew, and tofu. Each of these cheeses has its unique flavour and texture that can be delicious in dishes.
When making vegan or plant-based cheese, choosing a recipe that includes ingredients that will create the desired texture and flavour is important.
Many people enjoy using cashews to make their vegan cheese because they provide a smooth and creamy consistency without the offending milk protein taste.
Tofu can also be used to make plant-based cheeses, though some people find it more dense than other vegan cheese varieties.
Many people interested in replacing dairy with plant-based cheeses may also want to try out different types of nut milk. Nut milk provides a great option for those looking for a milk alternative that does not include lactose.
Some popular nut milk includes almond, hemp, and soy milk. When choosing nut milk, it is important to read the ingredient list carefully to ensure no added sugars or artificial flavours.
How to make plant-based cheese
Many different types of plant-based cheeses are available on the market today, all of which can be used in various recipes. Here are three tips for making your plant-based cheese:
1. Start with a base recipe. Many plant-based cheeses can be made from a basic cashew or almond milk base, flavouring with spices, herbs, and other ingredients to create unique flavours. Try out different variations to see what you like best!
2. Make your nut milk. Not only does this allow you to control the flavour and nutritional content of your cheese, but it also allows you to use nuts that you wouldn’t typically think of using in cheese recipes – like pistachios or walnuts.
3. Use vegan rennet if needed. If you don’t have access to a vegan cheese maker or want to make a more traditional type of cheese without animal products, you can use vegan rennet (available online) to help transform casein into whey.
Whatever recipe you choose, enjoy your plant-based cheese made from scratch!
Benefits of replacing dairy cheese
Aside from being healthier, there are numerous benefits to replacing dairy cheese with plant-based alternatives. For one, plant-based cheeses are less likely to contain hormones and other additives that can contribute to health problems such as weight gain.
They’re also cheaper than dairy cheese, and you can often find varieties specifically designed for vegans or vegetarians. Many of these cheeses are infinitely customizable, so you can create dishes that cater to your specific dietary needs or preferences.
Whether you’re looking for a versatile sandwich spread, a creamy dip for vegetables or a flavorful replacement for cheddar cheese in recipes, plant-based cheeses offer an impressive array of options.
Conclusion
If you’re considering a plant-based diet, it’s important to have options for cheese. Here are three vegan and dairy-free cheeses recipes that can be enjoyed on salads, as part of a sandwich filling, or even melted over pasta.
These recipes will provide the perfect starting point if you want to replace all or some dairy from your diet.
