Learn how to make delicious vegan cheese at home with this detailed step-by-step guide. Discover new recipes, techniques, and tips to elevate your cheese game.

Making Vegan Cheese: A Comprehensive Guide for Dairy-Free Cheese Lovers

Everything You Need to Know About Crafting Dairy-Free, Plant-Based Cheese

Introduction

Why Vegan Cheese?

The Basics of Making Vegan Cheese

Ingredients

Nuts and Seeds

Cultures and Fermentation

Techniques

Soaking and Blending

Aging and Flavoring

Recipes

Classic Vegan Cheese

Gourmet Vegan Cheese

Troubleshooting

Common Problems

FAQs

Conclusion

Final Thoughts

Making Vegan Cheese: A Detailed Step-by-Step Guide

Vegan cheese is a great alternative to traditional dairy cheese for those who are lactose intolerant or have a dairy allergy. It can also be a healthier option for those who are watching their cholesterol levels, as vegan cheese is typically lower in saturated fat. Additionally, vegan cheese can provide a good source of protein and fiber, depending on the ingredients used.

Health Benefits

Another reason why people might choose to consume or make vegan cheese is because of ethical concerns surrounding the dairy industry. Many people are uncomfortable with the treatment of animals in dairy production, and opt for vegan alternatives as a way to reduce their impact on animal welfare.

Ethical Concerns

The main ingredients needed to make vegan cheese are nuts or seeds, water, salt, and cultures. Other ingredients such as herbs and spices can be added for flavor. Equipment needed typically includes a blender or food processor, a cheesecloth, and a container for aging the cheese.

The basic steps involved in making vegan cheese include soaking and blending the nuts or seeds to create a creamy base, adding cultures to promote fermentation, shaping the cheese, and allowing it to age for a period of time to develop flavor and texture. Different techniques can be used to achieve different types of cheese, such as smoking or adding flavorings like truffle oil.

Cheese-Making Process

When it comes to making vegan cheese, nuts and seeds are the main ingredients used to create a creamy base. Some of the most popular nuts and seeds used include cashews, almonds, macadamias, pistachios, and sunflower seeds. Each type of nut or seed has its own unique flavor and texture, so it's worth experimenting to find the right combination for your cheese recipe.

Types of Nuts and Seeds

When selecting nuts and seeds for your vegan cheese, it's important to choose high-quality, fresh ingredients. Look for nuts and seeds that are free from mold, rancidity, or other signs of spoilage. It's also a good idea to choose raw, unsalted nuts and seeds to avoid any added flavors or preservatives.

Selecting Nuts and Seeds

Soaking nuts and seeds is an important step in making vegan cheese, as it softens the ingredients and makes them easier to blend into a creamy texture. Depending on the type of nut or seed, soaking times can vary from a few hours to overnight. After soaking, drain and rinse the nuts or seeds and blend them with water or other liquids to create a smooth, creamy texture.

Soaking and Blending Nuts and Seeds

Cultures and fermentation play an important role in creating the complex flavors and textures of vegan cheese. Cultures are used to add flavor and acidity to the cheese, while fermentation helps to develop the cheese's texture and depth of flavor. By introducing beneficial bacteria or yeast into the cheese-making process, the cheese is able to develop a tangy, complex flavor profile.

Role of Cultures and Fermentation

There are several different types of cultures that can be used in vegan cheese-making, including probiotics, rejuvelac, and kombucha. Probiotics, which are commonly found in yogurt and other fermented foods, are a popular choice for adding a tangy flavor to vegan cheese. Rejuvelac, a fermented drink made from sprouted grains, is often used as a starter culture for cheese-making. Kombucha, a fermented tea, can also be used to add acidity and depth of flavor to vegan cheese.

Types of Cultures

Before blending nuts and seeds to make vegan cheese, it's important to soak them to soften them up. Soaking also helps to remove any anti-nutrients or enzyme inhibitors that might be present. Different types of nuts and seeds require different soaking times, so it's important to check a recipe or do some research beforehand. As a general rule, most nuts and seeds need to be soaked for at least a few hours, or overnight if possible. Soaking in warm water with a pinch of salt can help to activate enzymes and improve digestion.

Soaking the Nuts and Seeds

Once the nuts and seeds have been soaked, they can be blended to create a creamy base for vegan cheese. A high-speed blender is recommended for best results, but a food processor or immersion blender can also work. It's important to blend the nuts and seeds until they are completely smooth and creamy, with no lumps or graininess. Adding some liquid, such as water, plant-based milk, or lemon juice, can help to achieve the right consistency. It's also important to scrape down the sides of the blender or food processor periodically to ensure that everything gets blended evenly.

Blending the Nuts and Seeds

The texture and consistency of vegan cheese can vary depending on the recipe and the ingredients used. Some cheeses are meant to be soft, creamy, and spreadable, while others are meant to be firm, sliceable, and grateable. To achieve the right texture and consistency, it's important to follow the recipe closely and make adjustments as needed. Adding more or less liquid, adjusting the amount of nuts or seeds, or experimenting with different blending times can all affect the final product. It's also important to taste the cheese as you go and adjust the seasoning, salt, and acid levels to your liking.

Tips for Achieving the Right Texture and Consistency

One of the challenges of making vegan cheese is achieving the right flavor profile. Since there is no dairy involved, it can be difficult to replicate the complex flavors and aromas of traditional cheese. However, there are many ways to add flavor to vegan cheese, such as using herbs, spices, nutritional yeast, miso, or fermented foods. It's important to balance these flavors carefully and avoid overdoing it. A little goes a long way, especially with stronger flavors like garlic, onion, or smoked paprika. Experimenting with different flavor combinations can be fun and rewarding.

Adding Flavor to Vegan Cheese

Aging vegan cheese is an important step in developing complex flavors and textures. Unlike traditional cheese, which is aged for months or even years, vegan cheese can be aged for a few days to a few weeks, depending on the recipe. Aging can be done in a variety of ways, such as air-drying, wrapping in cheesecloth, or storing in airtight containers. The cheese should be kept in a cool, dry place and checked periodically for mold or spoilage. Some cheeses can be aged in the refrigerator, while others need to be kept at room temperature. It's important to follow the recipe closely and use your senses to determine when the cheese is ready. Aged vegan cheese should have a tangy, nutty, or earthy flavor, and a firm, crumbly, or gooey texture, depending on the recipe.

Aging Vegan Cheese

1 cup raw cashews, soaked overnight 
1/4 cup nutritional yeast 
1 clove garlic 
1/2 tsp sea salt 
1/2 tsp lemon juice 
1/4 cup water

1. Drain and rinse the cashews.
2. Add all ingredients to a food processor or blender and blend until smooth.
3. Adjust seasoning to taste.
4. Transfer to a container and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to set.

Instructions

Add herbs or spices like rosemary, thyme, or smoked paprika for extra flavor. You can also experiment with different nuts like almonds, macadamias, or Brazil nuts for different textures and flavors.

Customization Tips

Ingredients: 
1 cup raw cashews, soaked overnight 
1/4 cup nutritional yeast 
1 clove garlic 
1/2 tsp smoked paprika 
1/2 tsp sea salt 
1/2 tsp liquid smoke 
1/4 cup water 

Instructions: 
Follow the instructions for Classic Vegan Cheese, adding smoked paprika and liquid smoke for a smoky flavor.

Smoked Gouda

Ingredients: 
1 cup raw cashews, soaked overnight 
1/4 cup nutritional yeast 
1 clove garlic 
1/2 tsp sea salt 
1/4 cup water 
1/2 tsp agar powder 

Instructions: 
1. Drain and rinse the cashews.
2. Add all ingredients except agar powder to a food processor or blender and blend until smooth.
3. Transfer the mixture to a saucepan and add agar powder. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens and becomes glossy.
4. Pour the mixture into a container and refrigerate for at least 2 hours to set.

Brie

Ingredients: 
1 cup raw cashews, soaked overnight 
1/4 cup nutritional yeast 
1 clove garlic 
1/2 tsp sea salt 
1/4 cup water 
1/2 cup crumbled tofu 
1 tsp apple cider vinegar 

Instructions: 
1. Drain and rinse the cashews.
2. Add all ingredients except tofu and vinegar to a food processor or blender and blend until smooth.
3. Transfer the mixture to a bowl and stir in the crumbled tofu and vinegar.
4. Transfer the mixture to a container and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to set.

Blue Cheese

Experiment with different flavors and textures by adding ingredients like miso paste, sundried tomatoes, olives, or truffle oil. You can also try different fermentation methods like using rejuvelac or kombucha for a tangy flavor.

If your vegan cheese separates into solids and liquid, it may be due to over-blending or not using enough thickeners. Try blending less or adding more thickeners, such as agar agar or arrowroot powder.

Separation

If your vegan cheese has a gritty texture, it may be due to not blending the nuts or seeds enough or not using a high-powered blender. Try blending longer or using a more powerful blender. You can also strain the mixture through a fine mesh sieve to remove any remaining grit.

Grittiness

If your vegan cheese is lacking in flavor, it may be due to not using enough salt or not adding enough herbs or spices. Taste the cheese mixture before blending and adjust the seasonings to your liking.

Lack of Flavor

Vegan cheese can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week.

How long does vegan cheese keep?

Yes, vegan cheese can be frozen for up to three months. Thaw in the refrigerator before using.

Can vegan cheese be frozen?

Vegan cheese can be used in a variety of recipes, such as pizzas, sandwiches, and pasta dishes. Experiment with different flavors and textures to find the best fit for your dish.

How do I use vegan cheese in recipes?

Making vegan cheese is a fun and rewarding activity that can bring a lot of joy to your life. Whether you are a vegan or not, making your own cheese at home can be a great way to experiment with different flavors and textures while also avoiding the health and ethical concerns associated with dairy production. As we have seen throughout this post, vegan cheese can be made using a variety of nuts and seeds, and can be flavored and aged to create complex and delicious varieties.

Summing up

If you are intrigued by the idea of making vegan cheese, we encourage you to give it a try! It may take some practice to get the hang of it, but the results are well worth the effort. Start with a simple recipe, like the classic vegan cheese we provided, and then branch out to more complex and flavorful varieties. Experiment with different nuts, seeds, and cultures to find your perfect combination.

Encouragement to try

If you want to learn more about making vegan cheese, there are plenty of resources available. Check out recipe books like Miyoko Schinner's Artisan Vegan Cheese or Karen McAthy's The Art of Plant-Based Cheesemaking. Join online forums like the Vegan Cheese Making group on Facebook to connect with other cheese-makers and share tips and tricks. And don't forget to have fun and enjoy the process!

Additional resources

Discover the ultimate guide for dining out as a vegan in non-vegan restaurants. Learn tips on how to find vegan options, communicate with the staff, and enjoy your meal!

Making Vegan Cheese: A Detailed Step-By-Step Guide

Everything You Need to Know About Crafting Dairy-Free, Plant-Based Cheese