Ever felt the irresistible pull of cheese, yet wondered how to stay true to your vegan values?
Amidst the colourful array of vegan dishes, there’s a lingering question that would have often crossed your mind- how can you possibly replace that irresistible, creamy allure of cheese? If you’re nodding in agreement, you’re not alone. ‘Is there a way to silence these cheese cravings with compassion?’ The answer is a resounding yes! We’re here to take you out of this cheesy dilemma by unveiling a treasure trove of 10 vegan substitutes to satisfy your cheese cravings. And I’m sure these will leave your taste buds dancing with delight!
1. Cashew Cream Cheese: Creamy Dream Come True
One of the finest substitutes for traditional cream cheese, cashew cream cheese is a luxurious and creamy spread that can easily replace its dairy counterpart. To make this, blend soaked cashews with lemon juice, nutritional yeast, and a pinch of salt. The result is a smooth and flavorful spread that’s perfect for bagels, crackers, or as a dip for fresh vegetables.
2. Nutritional Yeast: The Cheesy Secret
Nutritional yeast is a powerhouse ingredient in the vegan world. It not only adds a cheesy flavor but also brings a nutritional punch to your dishes. Sprinkle it on popcorn, pasta, or roasted vegetables for that savory, cheesy taste. It’s a guilt-free way to curb those cheese cravings.
3. Tofu Ricotta:
Silken tofu blended with garlic, lemon juice, nutritional yeast, and herbs makes a fantastic vegan alternative to ricotta cheese. It’s perfect for lasagna, stuffed shells, or as a dip for breadsticks.
4. Tahini –
This creamy, fatty, and thick paste could also help with cheese cravings! Tahini is made from ground sesame seeds and has a very rich nutty flavor. [Try out PlantMade instant Tahini Mix]
5. Roasted salted almonds –
Almonds are fatty (good fatty) and by roasting and lightly salting them, they will be more flavourful and can help satisfy cheese cravings.
6. Hummus –
if you are not a fan of tahini then eating hummus can also help curb cheese cravings. Tahini is a key ingredient in hummus but its taste isn’t all that prominent when mixed with chickpeas. The creamy texture of hummus will give a sense of a spreadable ‘cheese’ when paired with a whole wheat toast.[Try PlantMade instant Hummus mix]
7. Peanut Butter or Sunflower Butter
Acts as another fatty gooey sub if you’re craving spreadable cheese. They contain healthy fats and protein, offering a savory depth that mimics cheese. It doesn’t taste quite like cheese but both have healthy fats and creamy texture.
8. Avocado –
Avacado serves as a rich, creamy vegan alternative to cheese having a buttery flavour that complements a variety of vegan dishes, making it an excellent choice to satiate your cheese cravings.
Eat it on a toast and sprinkle with some sea salt + pepper. You can also make guac and enjoy it with chips. We found that the creamy gooey texture of the mashed avocado helps with cheese cravings.
9. Olives
Certain types of olives, like Kalamata olives or ripe black olives, have a soft and slightly creamy texture. Olives have a rich umami flavour that can be reminiscent of certain cheese varieties.
10. Eggplant Dips and Spreads-
Pureed roasted eggplant can be transformed into a creamy dip or spread with the addition of seasonings like garlic, lemon juice, and herbs. While it’s not a direct cheese substitute, it can provide a savoury and creamy option for your snacks and appetizers.
Another avenue to satiate those cheese cravings is to make your own 'Vegan Parmesan cheese!' Here we have mentioned a quick and easy recipe of this vegan cheese-
Quick recipe-
Ingredients:
• 1/4 cup raw cashews
• 2 tablespoons nutritional yeast
• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
• A pinch of salt
4 easy steps!
1. Place all the ingredients in a small food processor or blender.
2. Pulse until you have a fine, crumbly mixture resembling Parmesan cheese.
3. Taste and adjust the seasonings, adding more nutritional yeast or salt if desired.
4. Transfer your vegan Parmesan to a small container with a lid for easy storage.
As we wrap up this journey through the world of vegan cheese substitutes, you’re now armed with a variety of delectable options to satisfy those irresistible cheese cravings while staying true to your plant-based lifestyle. And speaking of making your life easier, look no further than PlantMade- ‘Your Craving Rescue on the Vegan Transition Journey’, a brand committed to simplifying your culinary adventures. Our very own indigenous products- “Instant hummus and Tahini Mix” aren’t just convenient; they’re also exceptional cheese replacers in their own right. Creamy, savoury, and oh-so-delicious, they’ll add a burst of flavour to your dishes, whether as a dip, a spread, or an ingredient in your recipes acting as perfect cheese replacers.
So, why not take a leap into the world of PlantMade and discover how we’ve made it easier than ever to indulge your cravings while supporting your vegan values? Try out PlantMade’s products today, experience the change and see how they can elevate your vegan culinary experience. It's time to say “cheese” the vegan way with PlantMade!