Vegan nacho cheese is a delectable and creamy alternative to traditional dairy-based cheese sauces. Ideal for anyone following a vegan lifestyle or those who are lactose intolerant, this recipe promises to deliver all the flavor without any of the dairy. Why is this recipe great? It’s perfect for your next party, game day, or just a comforting snack that everyone can enjoy. Did you know that vegan nacho cheese can be made with cashews and nutritional yeast? This combination creates a rich and savory flavor that’s truly irresistible.
Recipe Overview
| Yields | 4 servings |
|---|---|
| Prep Time | 10 minutes |
| Cook Time | 15 minutes |
| Total Time | 25 minutes |
| Calories per Serving | 150 kcal |
Serves:
Ingredients
- 1 cup raw cashews
- 1 cup water
- 1/4 cup nutritional yeast
- 2 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp turmeric
- 1 tbsp cornstarch
Instructions
Step 1: Soak the cashews in hot water for at least 10 minutes to soften them.
Step 2: Drain and rinse the cashews, then add them to a high-speed blender.
Step 3: Add the water, nutritional yeast, lemon juice, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, smoked paprika, and turmeric to the blender.
Step 4: Blend on high until the mixture is completely smooth and creamy, scraping down the sides as necessary.
Step 5: Transfer the mixture to a saucepan and cook over medium heat.
Step 6: Stir constantly until the mixture thickens and becomes gooey, about 5-7 minutes.
Step 7: Add the cornstarch and continue to stir until fully incorporated and the cheese sauce reaches your desired consistency.
Step 8: Remove from heat and serve immediately with tortilla chips, over nachos, or as a dip for vegetables.
Nutrition Facts
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 150 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 12g |
| Protein | 6g |
| Fat | 10g |
| Saturated Fat | 1.5g |
| Fiber | 2g |
| Sugar | 1g |
| Sodium | 400mg |
| Calcium | 20mg |
| Iron | 2mg |
Check out this video for a visual guide on how to make the best vegan nacho cheese:
Kitchen Equipment Needed
- High-speed blender
- Saucepan
- Spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
Tips and Variations
Storing Leftovers: Store any leftover vegan nacho cheese in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave before serving.
Recipe Swaps: If you prefer a nut-free version, you can substitute the cashews with sunflower seeds. The result will still be a creamy and delicious vegan cheese sauce.
Flavor Variations: Feel free to add a bit of jalapeño or hot sauce to give the cheese a spicy kick. You can also mix in some diced tomatoes and green chilies for a more robust flavor.
Food Pairings: This vegan nacho cheese pairs perfectly with tortilla chips, raw vegetables, and even as a topping for baked potatoes or burritos. For a complete meal, serve it alongside a hearty vegan chili.
This creamy and delicious vegan nacho cheese will undoubtedly become a staple in your kitchen. Whether you’re hosting a party or simply craving a comforting snack, this recipe offers a delightful dairy-free alternative that’s both healthy and satisfying. Share this recipe with your friends and family, and don’t forget to subscribe to our blog for more mouth-watering vegan recipes!
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is vegan nacho cheese made of?
A: Vegan nacho cheese is typically made from a base of soaked cashews, water, and nutritional yeast. Additional ingredients such as lemon juice, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, smoked paprika, and turmeric help to enhance the flavor and achieve the desired cheesy taste and texture.
Q: Is the Taco Bell nacho cheese vegan?
A: No, the nacho cheese served at Taco Bell is not vegan. It contains dairy products such as cheese and milk, making it unsuitable for those following a vegan diet.
Q: Is Velveeta vegan?
A: No, Velveeta is not vegan. It is a processed cheese product made from milk and other dairy ingredients. For a vegan alternative, you can try homemade vegan cheese recipes or store-bought vegan cheese options.
Q: What do vegans substitute for cheese?
A: Vegans often substitute cheese with various plant-based alternatives, such as cashew cheese, almond cheese, soy cheese, and nutritional yeast-based cheese sauces. These alternatives can mimic the creamy and savory qualities of traditional cheese without using any animal products.
