Artisan Vegan Cheese Recipe: Easy Homemade Delight

Discover the delightful world of artisan vegan cheese with this homemade recipe that promises rich flavors and creamy textures without any dairy. Whether you’re a seasoned vegan or just curious about plant-based alternatives, this artisan vegan cheese recipe is a game-changer.

Made from wholesome, natural ingredients, it captures the essence of traditional cheese craftsmanship with a compassionate twist. Perfect for sandwiches, crackers, or even melting atop your favorite dishes, this cheese will elevate your culinary creations and impress friends and family alike.

Let’s dive into the step-by-step process to create a delicious, tangy, and spreadable vegan cheese that you can proudly call your own.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This artisan vegan cheese blends simplicity and sophistication, making it accessible for home cooks of all skill levels. It uses cashews as a base, which provide a creamy, rich texture that mimics traditional cheeses beautifully.

The fermentation process adds a depth of flavor and a slight tang, reminiscent of aged cheeses. Plus, it’s completely customizable—you can add herbs, spices, or even smoked paprika for a unique twist.

Made without preservatives, additives, or artificial flavors, this recipe is not only delicious but also nutritious. It’s a fantastic option for those with dairy allergies or anyone looking to reduce their environmental footprint.

Plus, it pairs wonderfully with many recipes, including comfort foods and gourmet dishes. If you enjoy baking, don’t miss our Green Chile Cheese Bread Recipe or try your hand at our Hamburger Bun Sourdough Recipe for perfect cheese accompaniments.

Ingredients

• 1 ½ cups raw cashews (soaked in water for at least 4 hours or overnight)
• ⅓ cup refined coconut oil (melted)
• ¼ cup nutritional yeast (adds cheesy flavor)
• 2 tablespoons tapioca starch (for stretchiness)
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
• 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• ¼ cup water (or as needed)
• 1 probiotic capsule (optional, for fermentation)

Equipment

• High-speed blender or food processor
• Mixing bowls
• Small saucepan
• Whisk or spatula
• Cheese mold or small bowl lined with cheesecloth
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Refrigerator for setting

Instructions

1. Soak the cashews: Place the raw cashews in a bowl and cover them with water. Let them soak for at least 4 hours, or overnight for best results. This softens the nuts and makes blending easier.
2. Drain and rinse: After soaking, drain the cashews and rinse them well under cold water.
3. Blend the base: Add the soaked cashews, melted coconut oil, nutritional yeast, lemon juice, apple cider vinegar, salt, garlic powder, onion powder, and water to your blender or food processor. Blend until completely smooth and creamy. You may need to stop and scrape down the sides a few times.
4. Prepare the tapioca starch mixture: In a small saucepan, whisk the tapioca starch with ¼ cup water over medium heat. Stir continuously until the mixture thickens and becomes stretchy, about 3-5 minutes.
5. Combine mixtures: Quickly add the thickened tapioca starch to the blender with the cashew mixture. Blend again for 30 seconds to combine everything evenly.
6. Add probiotics (optional): If using a probiotic capsule, open it and add the powder to the mixture. Stir gently with a spatula to incorporate. This step helps ferment the cheese for a tangier flavor. Transfer the mixture to a clean container, cover loosely, and let it ferment at room temperature for 12-24 hours.
7. Mold and refrigerate: Pour the cheese mixture into a cheese mold or a small bowl lined with cheesecloth. Smooth the top with a spatula and cover it. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or until firm.
8. Serve and enjoy: Once set, remove from the mold and slice or spread as desired. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 7 days.

Tips & Variations

“Don’t rush the fermentation – it really builds flavor and complexity!”

• Herb Infusion: Add fresh herbs like chives, dill, or basil to the blend before molding for a fresh and vibrant flavor.
• Smoked Cheese Style: Stir in a teaspoon of smoked paprika or liquid smoke for a smoky twist.
• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red chili flakes for some heat.
• Nut Alternatives: For a different texture, try blending macadamia nuts or almonds instead of cashews.
• Fermentation Tips: Use a high-quality probiotic without prebiotics or added fillers for best results. If you prefer no fermentation, skip the probiotic and fermenting step.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

This artisan vegan cheese is incredibly versatile and pairs beautifully with a variety of dishes. Spread it on warm artisan bread or crackers for a simple appetizer.

It melts well, making it a perfect addition to vegan grilled cheese sandwiches or pizza toppings. You can also dollop it on roasted vegetables or use it as a creamy base for dips and sauces.

For delightful pairing ideas, try it with our Green Chile Cheese Bread Recipe or serve alongside crusty buns like in the Hamburger Bun Sourdough Recipe. If you love sweet and savory combos, try a slice of this cheese with our Grandma’S Old Fashioned Bread Pudding With Vanilla Sauce Recipe for a unique tasting experience.

Conclusion

Crafting your own artisan vegan cheese at home is both rewarding and delicious. This recipe provides a perfect balance of creamy texture and tangy flavor, all while being free from dairy and artificial ingredients.

With simple pantry staples and a little patience during fermentation, you can enjoy a cheese that’s customizable and wholesome. Whether you’re serving it as an appetizer, melting it into meals, or simply enjoying it on its own, this vegan cheese will quickly become a staple in your kitchen.

Embrace the journey of plant-based cooking and take pride in creating artisanal foods that reflect your values and taste preferences. Don’t forget to explore some of our other recipes to complement your vegan cheese experience, such as the Green Chile Cheese Bread Recipe or the comforting Hamburger Bun Sourdough Recipe.

Happy cooking and enjoy your delicious, creamy artisan vegan cheese!

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