Buffalo Mozzarella Recipe Vegan: Easy Homemade Delight

Buffalo mozzarella is a beloved classic, known for its creamy texture and fresh, milky flavor. But what if you’re vegan or looking to enjoy a plant-based version of this Italian treasure?

Well, you’re in luck! Making vegan buffalo mozzarella at home is not only possible but incredibly rewarding.

This recipe captures the essence of traditional mozzarella using simple, wholesome ingredients like cashews and coconut oil to create a smooth, meltable cheese alternative. Whether you want to impress guests or just enjoy a dairy-free delight, this recipe will soon become a staple in your kitchen.

Creating vegan buffalo mozzarella allows you to enjoy the rich, satisfying experience of fresh cheese without compromising your dietary choices. Plus, it’s a fun culinary project that brings a touch of Italy right to your home.

Ready to dive into the world of vegan cheese making? Let’s get started!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This vegan buffalo mozzarella recipe is a game-changer for anyone craving a dairy-free alternative that doesn’t skimp on flavor or texture. It’s creamy, soft, and slightly tangy, resembling traditional mozzarella but made entirely from plants.

Unlike store-bought vegan cheeses that can be dry or overly processed, this recipe uses natural ingredients and simple kitchen tools. It’s also versatile — perfect for slicing onto salads, melting on pizzas, or simply enjoying with fresh tomatoes and basil.

Plus, it’s gluten-free, soy-free, and packed with healthy fats and protein from nuts.

Whether you’re vegan, lactose intolerant, or just cheese-curious, this recipe makes a delicious and wholesome addition to your culinary repertoire.

Ingredients

• 1 cup raw cashews (soaked in water for at least 4 hours or overnight)
• 1/4 cup refined coconut oil (melted)
• 1/4 cup tapioca starch (for stretch and melt)
• 1/4 cup nutritional yeast (for cheesy flavor)
• 1/2 cup unsweetened soy or oat milk (or other neutral plant milk)
• 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar (for tanginess)
• 1 tsp salt
• 1 tsp lemon juice
• 1 tsp agar agar powder (vegan gelling agent)
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder (optional, for subtle flavor depth)

Equipment

• High-speed blender or food processor
• Small saucepan
• Whisk or silicone spatula
• Heatproof bowl or mold for shaping mozzarella
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Strainer or nut milk bag (optional, for soaking cashews)

Instructions

1. Soak the cashews: Place the cashews in a bowl and cover with water. Let them soak for at least 4 hours or overnight to soften.
2. Drain and rinse: After soaking, drain the cashews and rinse under cold water.
3. Blend the base: In a high-speed blender, combine the soaked cashews, melted coconut oil, plant milk, apple cider vinegar, lemon juice, salt, nutritional yeast, and garlic powder if using. Blend on high until completely smooth and creamy. This may take 1-2 minutes depending on your blender.
4. Prepare the thickener: In a small saucepan, whisk together the tapioca starch and agar agar powder. Slowly pour in the blended cashew mixture while continuously whisking to avoid lumps.
5. Cook to thicken: Heat the mixture over medium heat, whisking constantly. After a few minutes, it will begin to thicken and become stretchy. Continue whisking until it reaches a thick, gooey consistency similar to melted cheese. This usually takes 4-6 minutes.
6. Shape your mozzarella: Immediately transfer the hot cheese mixture into a heatproof bowl or mold. You can also shape it into balls with wet hands for a traditional mozzarella look. Let it cool to room temperature.
7. Chill to set: Place the shaped mozzarella in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour to firm up. The cheese will develop a soft but sliceable texture.
8. Enjoy! Once chilled, your vegan buffalo mozzarella is ready to be sliced, melted, or served fresh.

Tips & Variations

For the best creamy texture, make sure to soak your cashews thoroughly. If you’re short on time, soaking in hot water for 1 hour can work, but overnight is ideal.

• Make it spicy: Add a pinch of cayenne or smoked paprika to mimic the buffalo spice flavor for a fun twist.
• Use different nuts: Macadamias or blanched almonds can be substituted for cashews but may alter texture slightly.
• Herb infusion: Mix in fresh basil, oregano, or chives into the cheese before setting for an herby mozzarella variation.
• Storage: Store your vegan mozzarella in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. It can also be frozen for up to 1 month but texture may slightly change.
• Stretch factor: Tapioca starch is key for that stretchy effect. Don’t skip it if you want true mozzarella-like meltiness.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

This vegan buffalo mozzarella shines as a fresh, creamy companion to a variety of dishes. Try slicing it onto your favorite salads along with ripe tomatoes and fresh basil for a classic Caprese salad.

It melts beautifully, making it perfect for vegan pizzas, grilled sandwiches, or stuffed into pasta dishes like stuffed shells or ravioli. For a simple snack, drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with cracked black pepper and sea salt.

Pair it with crusty artisan bread or use it to top vegan burgers for a luscious cheesy bite. The possibilities are endless!

Conclusion

Making your own vegan buffalo mozzarella is a delightful way to embrace plant-based cooking without sacrificing the joy of fresh cheese. This recipe offers a creamy, stretchy, and flavorful alternative that works wonderfully in many dishes, from salads to pizzas.

Not only is it healthier and customizable, but it also empowers you to control exactly what goes into your food. Whether you’re cooking for dietary needs or simply looking to explore new flavors, this mozzarella will impress both vegans and non-vegans alike.

For more delicious and creative vegan recipes, check out our Lemon Ricotta Pasta With Arugula Recipe for a fresh pasta dish or the tasty Lion’S Mane Mushroom Crumble Recipes for an umami-packed meal. And if you want a hearty side, the Harvest Hash Recipe: A Delicious and Easy Fall Comfort Food pairs beautifully with vegan cheese creations.

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