If you’re on the lookout for a rich and tangy topping that captures the essence of classic cheese without any dairy, this Vegan Parmesan Cheese Recipe is an absolute game-changer. Bursting with nutty flavors and a subtle savory punch, this homemade vegan parmesan offers a wonderfully crumbly texture that loves to sprinkle on pastas, salads, and roasted veggies. Easy to whip up and incredibly versatile, it’s the perfect pantry staple to elevate your plant-based meals in the most delightful way.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Vegan Parmesan Cheese Recipe lies in its simplicity, using just a handful of pantry staples to create a depth of flavor and texture that feels luxurious. Each ingredient plays a vital role, whether it’s adding creaminess, nuttiness, or that unmistakable cheesy tang.
- 1 cup raw cashews (soaked): Soaking softens the nuts, allowing them to blend into a fine yet crumbly texture reminiscent of parmesan.
- 1/2 cup nutritional yeast: The star ingredient for that signature cheesy, umami flavor without any dairy.
- 1 tsp garlic powder: Adds a subtle savory note that enhances the overall richness.
- 1/2 tsp fine sea salt: Balances the flavors and brings everything together with just the right lift.
- 2 tbsp pine nuts (optional): Adds extra depth and a buttery undertone, taking the flavor and texture up a notch.
How to Make Vegan Parmesan Cheese Recipe
Step 1: Gather Your Ingredients
Start by assembling all your ingredients to ensure a smooth process. Having everything at hand will make blending and seasoning a breeze, and you’ll appreciate how straightforward this recipe really is.
Step 2: Blend the Base Mixture
Drain the soaked cashews and add them to a high-speed blender or food processor along with nutritional yeast, garlic powder, and sea salt. Pulse these ingredients until the mixture becomes crumbly and well combined. Aim for a texture similar to coarse parmesan cheese that will sprinkle effortlessly.
Step 3: Add Pine Nuts (If Using)
If you decide to include pine nuts for that extra nutty richness, toss them in now and pulse again until fully incorporated. They not only intensify the flavor but also add a lovely buttery texture that makes the vegan parmesan feel genuinely indulgent.
Step 4: Taste and Adjust Seasoning
This step is the secret to personalizing your Vegan Parmesan Cheese Recipe. Give it a taste and add more garlic powder, salt, or nutritional yeast if you want it sharper or saltier. The goal is to get a perfect balance that suits your palate.
Step 5: Store Properly
Once you’re happy with your vegan parmesan, transfer it to an airtight container and pop it in the fridge. It will keep fresh for up to two weeks, making it an easy go-to condiment whenever you need a cheesy flair.
How to Serve Vegan Parmesan Cheese Recipe
Garnishes
This Vegan Parmesan Cheese Recipe shines sprinkled atop freshly roasted vegetables, giving them an irresistible finishing touch. It also pairs beautifully with soups, offering a nutty crunch and cheesy flavor that adds depth to every spoonful.
Side Dishes
Try adding a generous dusting over classic spaghetti dishes or creamy vegan risottos to elevate the flavor profile instantly. It’s also fantastic on garlic bread or mixed into kale salads for that extra savory punch.
Creative Ways to Present
Beyond sprinkling, incorporate this vegan parmesan into homemade breadcrumb coatings for baked tofu or eggplant. You can even stir it into vegan mashed potatoes for a delicious cheesy twist or mix it with olive oil to create a quick dipping sauce for crusty bread.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep your vegan parmesan in a sealed container in the refrigerator where it stays fresh and flavorful for up to two weeks. Make sure the container is airtight to maintain its crumbly texture and prevent moisture from softening it.
Freezing
If you want to store it longer, freeze the vegan parmesan in small portions inside a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag. Freezing preserves its flavor and texture for up to three months, handy for having this cheesy boost always ready to go.
Reheating
No reheating needed! Vegan parmesan is best enjoyed cold or at room temperature, so simply sprinkle it directly on your warm dishes before serving. This keeps its delightful crumble and the flavor intact.
FAQs
Can I use other nuts instead of cashews for this Vegan Parmesan Cheese Recipe?
Absolutely! While cashews create a smooth and creamy base, almonds or walnuts can also work well. Just keep in mind they might alter the flavor and texture slightly, so you may want to adjust seasoning accordingly.
Do I need to soak the cashews overnight?
Soaking for a few hours is sufficient to soften the cashews, but overnight soaking works too. This makes them blend easier and results in a better texture for the parmesan.
What is nutritional yeast, and can I skip it?
Nutritional yeast is a deactivated yeast that has a naturally cheesy and nutty flavor, essential for mimicking parmesan’s taste. Skipping it will make the cheese less flavorful, so it’s highly recommended to include it.
Is this Vegan Parmesan Cheese Recipe gluten-free?
Yes! All the ingredients are naturally gluten-free, making this recipe safe for those with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease.
How long does the vegan parmesan last once made?
Stored properly in an airtight container in the fridge, it will stay fresh and tasty for up to two weeks. For longer storage, freezing is a great option.
Final Thoughts
This Vegan Parmesan Cheese Recipe is a true kitchen staple for anyone wanting to enjoy the rich, cheesy flavors of traditional parmesan without dairy. It’s easy to make, wonderfully versatile, and guaranteed to add a burst of flavor to countless dishes. I can’t wait for you to try it and discover just how effortlessly delicious plant-based cooking can be!
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Vegan Parmesan Cheese Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes (plus 2 hours soaking time)
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours 10 minutes
- Yield: 10 servings
- Category: Condiment
- Method: Blending
- Cuisine: Vegan
- Diet: Vegan
Description
A simple, vegan Parmesan cheese alternative made with raw cashews, nutritional yeast, garlic powder, and sea salt. This flavorful, dairy-free topping is perfect for adding a cheesy, nutty boost to your pasta, salads, and more, and it can be customized with pine nuts for extra richness.
Ingredients
Vegan Parmesan Cheese Ingredients
- 1 cup raw cashews (soaked for at least 2 hours)
- 1/2 cup nutritional yeast
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp fine sea salt
- 2 tbsp pine nuts (optional)
Instructions
- Gather Ingredients: Collect all ingredients including soaked raw cashews, nutritional yeast, garlic powder, fine sea salt, and optional pine nuts to prepare for blending.
- Blend Base Mixture: In a high-speed blender or food processor, combine the soaked cashews, nutritional yeast, garlic powder, and sea salt. Pulse until the mixture reaches a crumbly, grated cheese-like texture.
- Add Pine Nuts: If using pine nuts, add them to the blender and mix until they are fully incorporated and the texture remains crumbly.
- Adjust Seasoning: Taste the mixture and adjust the seasoning if desired by adding more salt or garlic powder to enhance the flavor.
- Store the Cheese: Transfer the vegan Parmesan cheese to an airtight container and refrigerate. It will keep fresh for up to two weeks.
Notes
- Soaking cashews softens them and makes blending easier, ensuring a smoother texture.
- You can skip the pine nuts or replace them with almonds or walnuts for a different flavor profile.
- Use the vegan Parmesan as a topping for pasta, salads, popcorn, or anywhere you’d use traditional Parmesan cheese.
- Ensure to store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain freshness.
- This recipe is naturally gluten-free, vegan, and dairy-free.
