How to Make Vegan Cheese at Home

McKel Hill of Nutrition Stripped makes a cheesy, cheese-free spread that you can eat on anything from salads to potatoes to sandwiches.

ByMcKel Hill

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It's always more fun to DIY. Every week, we'll spare you a trip to the grocery store and show you how to make small batches of great foods at home.

Today: McKel Hill of Nutrition Stripped makes a cheesy, cheese-free spread that you can eat on anything from salads to potatoes to sandwiches.

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Cashew cheese is perfect for dairy-free living -- and for anyone who wants to try something new. Not only does is this creamy, cheesy spread made using gluten-free and vegan ingredients, but it comes together quickly and it's endlessly versatile. Non-dairy lovers, rejoice!

This “cheese” has been a staple of mine in the kitchen since I stopped eating dairy. What makes this recipe especially delicious is the nutritional yeast, which contributes to the cheesy flavor and also, yes, adds nutrition.

More: Nutritional yeast is also the magical ingredient in vegan pesto.

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Consider this fair warning: cashew cheese is so delicious you may find yourself wanting to consume the whole bowl. If you’re looking for creative uses for cashew cheese, here are a few ideas:

  • Dollop it onto baked potatoes, salads, fresh pasta, or scrambled eggs.
  • Use it as a dip for vegetables, fruits, or crackers.
  • Make a quick salad dressing with a tablespoon of cashew cheese and a couple tablespoons of apple cider vinegar.
  • Simply spread it onto sandwiches, cracker, wraps, and toast.

More: So you've ate your fill of cashew cheese and crackers. Now, make vegan chocolate pie for dessert.

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Makes 1 1/2 cups

1 cup raw cashews
1/4 cup nutritional yeast
2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
2 tablespoons white wine
2 cloves garlic
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard

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Soak the cashews in 1/4 cup of water for 20 minutes to 1 hour. Add all ingredients to a high-speed blender or food processor and blend until thick and creamy.

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Use at room temperature or chill for at least 20 minutes. Store the cashew cheese iin an airtight mason jar or container and enjoy it for up to 1 week.

Photos by McKell Hill

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