Bushra Griffith
Dairy-free cheese is a non-dairy alternative to cheese, usually made from plant-based proteins and fats. It is a good option for those who are lactose intolerant, have a milk allergy, or are looking to reduce their dairy intake. The market for dairy-free cheese has grown significantly in the last decade, and there are now many varieties available, including soft cheeses, slices, grated options, and spreads. While some people may find the taste and texture of dairy-free cheese to be less appealing than regular cheese, others have found certain brands that they enjoy, such as Kite Hill, Follow Your Heart, and Miyoko's.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Taste | Opinions vary, some say it tastes terrible, others say it's good, but not the same as dairy cheese |
| Health | Generally considered healthier than dairy cheese as it's lower in saturated fat and often has added vitamin B12, but watch out for higher sodium content and lower protein content |
| Texture | Some vegan cheeses have a similar texture to dairy cheese, but some find it too soft or difficult to grate |
| Ingredients | Often ultra-processed with emulsifiers, stabilisers, and additives, but some brands use natural ingredients |
| Availability | Widely available in most major retailers and grocery stores |
| Price | Often pricey, but some affordable options exist |
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What You'll Learn
Taste and texture
Dairy-free cheese has come a long way in terms of taste and texture, with some people claiming that it is almost indistinguishable from regular cheese. However, others still find the taste and texture lacking, describing it as "disgusting" and "hard to like".
Some dairy-free cheeses melt beautifully and have a creamy texture, while others are stickier and have a different taste. The texture of some dairy-free cheeses can be smooth and reminiscent of milk cream cheese, while others can be very soft and spreadable. Some people find that the taste of coconut can be overwhelming, while others enjoy the tanginess and creaminess of dairy-free cream cheese.
Dairy-free cheese alternatives are usually made from plant-based proteins and fats, such as cashews, almonds, coconut oil, and various spices. The taste can range from mild and sweet to extra sharp and pungent, with some cheeses having a strong fermented flavour.
Some popular brands of dairy-free cheese include Follow Your Heart, Kite Hill, Miyokos, and Violife. Follow Your Heart's Provolone and Smoked Gouda have been described as tasty, while Kite Hill's cream cheese and Miyokos' Organic Cashew Milk Mozzarella have received positive reviews for their taste and texture. Violife's Feta has also been praised for tasting and crumbling like regular dairy feta.
Overall, while dairy-free cheese has improved in taste and texture, it still may not satisfy everyone's preferences. It is important to manage expectations and be open to trying different brands and varieties to find the ones that suit your taste buds.
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Health benefits
Dairy-free cheese can be a healthier alternative to regular cheese, depending on the type and ingredients used. Here are some health benefits to consider:
Reduced Inflammation
Dairy products are linked to chronic inflammation, which can contribute to various health issues such as diabetes, heart disease, cancer, obesity, and Alzheimer's disease. Dairy-free cheese alternatives can help reduce these risks by eliminating inflammatory agents found in dairy.
Improved Digestive Health
Dairy-free cheese can improve digestive health, especially for those who are lactose intolerant or have dairy sensitivities. Lactose intolerance is common, and dairy cheese can cause issues like bloating and digestive discomfort. Dairy-free options provide a solution to these problems, improving overall digestive health.
Lower Cholesterol
Vegan cheese options are typically free of natural cholesterol, which is predominantly found in animal products. By eliminating animal-based cholesterol, dairy-free cheese can help improve heart health and reduce the risk of cardiovascular diseases associated with high cholesterol levels.
Allergen-Friendly
Dairy-free cheese provides an allergen-friendly option for those with dairy allergies or sensitivities. Dairy allergies can cause a range of symptoms, including digestive issues, skin reactions, and respiratory problems. Dairy-free cheese alternatives offer a safer and more inclusive option for individuals with these allergies.
Weight Management
Dairy-free cheese can aid in weight management. Traditional dairy cheese often contains extra calories, hormones, and cholesterol, which can contribute to weight gain. By eliminating these factors, dairy-free cheese can support a healthier weight management journey.
It's important to note that not all dairy-free cheeses are equally nutritious. Some store-bought dairy-free cheese options may contain added oils, fillers, and gums, which can be unhealthy. Reading labels and choosing options with minimal ingredients or making your own dairy-free cheese at home with simple, whole-food ingredients can be healthier choices.
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Nutritional differences
Dairy-free cheese is usually made from plant-based proteins and fats, such as fermented nuts or soya beans. While some people prefer the taste of dairy-free cheese, others find it unappetizing. Some popular brands of dairy-free cheese include Follow Your Heart, Kite Hill, and Daiya.
Dairy-free cheese is generally considered healthier than dairy cheese as it is lower in saturated fat and often contains added vitamin B12, which contributes to a healthy nervous system. However, it may have a higher sodium content and lower protein content than dairy cheese.
Some people choose to make their own dairy-free cheese at home to avoid unhealthy additives such as gums, oils, and fillers that are commonly found in store-bought varieties. Homemade dairy-free cheese can be made with simple, natural ingredients such as organic cashews, filtered water, organic coconut oil, grapeseed oil, and Himalayan sea salt.
Dairy-free cheese can be a good option for those who are lactose intolerant or looking to reduce their dairy intake or carbon footprint. However, it is important to read the labels when purchasing store-bought dairy-free cheese and look for products with minimal ingredients and no added oils, fillers, or gums.
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Making your own
Dairy-free cheese is a great option for those who are lactose intolerant or vegan. While there are many store-bought options available, making your own dairy-free cheese at home is a rewarding and delicious experience. Here's a guide to help you get started:
Ingredients and Preparation:
The base ingredients for dairy-free cheese can vary, but some common options include nuts such as cashews, macadamia nuts, blanched almonds, or raw sunflower seeds. These nuts need to be softened by either boiling them for about 10 minutes or soaking them in water for a minimum of 6 hours or overnight. You can also use seeds, soy, tapioca, oils, or other ingredients as a base. Coconut oil is a popular choice, as it helps to firm up the cheese when chilled. Other ingredients like olive oil, garlic, salt, and lemon juice can be added for flavour and texture. Some recipes even include chickpea flour or agar-agar powder as a setting agent.
Methods and Techniques:
There are several methods for making dairy-free cheese at home, depending on the desired texture and flavour. Here are some general steps to follow:
- Prepare the base ingredient by softening or soaking the nuts or seeds.
- Blend the base ingredient with the desired flavourings and oils. You can use a food processor or blender for this step.
- If using a setting agent like agar-agar powder, add it to the mixture and blend until combined.
- Transfer the mixture to a mould or container. If using a solid cheese, you may need to line a container with cheesecloth to shape the cheese.
- Refrigerate the cheese for a few hours or overnight to allow it to firm up.
- Remove from the mould or container and enjoy!
Customisation and Flavour Variations:
One of the best parts about making your own dairy-free cheese is the ability to customise the flavour. You can add various herbs, spices, and other ingredients to create unique flavour profiles. Some popular add-ins include freshly chopped herbs like thyme, dill, rosemary, parsley, or basil, lemon zest, coarsely ground black pepper, or crushed red pepper flakes. You can also experiment with different types of milk, such as coconut milk or cashew milk, to create a richer, creamier cheese.
Storage and Shelf Life:
Dairy-free cheese can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a week or frozen for later use. It is essential to wrap it properly to prevent drying out or absorbing flavours from other foods in the fridge.
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Recommended brands
Dairy-free cheese has come a long way, and there are now many options available that can satisfy your cheesy cravings. However, it's worth noting that not all vegan cheeses are created equal, and some taste better than others. Here are some recommended brands:
Follow Your Heart
This brand gets a lot of love from dairy-free enthusiasts, especially their Provolone and Smoked Gouda varieties. Their cheese slices are also great for making mac and cheese, as they melt perfectly. You can find this brand at Walmart and other major retailers.
Violife
Violife is a popular choice for dairy-free cheese, known for its versatility. Their products taste great hot or cold, and they offer a wide range of options, including feta, slices, blocks, and grated styles. Violife cheeses melt and spread like dairy-based cheese, making them a great option for those new to the vegan lifestyle. You can find Violife at Kroger and other major retailers.
Trader Joe's
Trader Joe's offers a varied selection of affordable vegan cheeses. Their house brand includes options like shredded Parmesan, which is great for meatballs, and almond-based mozzarella. They also have a vegan Parmesan that's worth trying. While their cheeses may not have the best melt or creaminess, they are still a good option for those on a budget.
Miyoko's
Miyoko's is a well-known brand in the dairy-free cheese space, offering a range of creamy cheeses. Their Organic Cashew Milk Mozzarella is a favourite among many, as it stretches and melts like dairy cheese. Miyoko's products are Non-GMO, Lactose-Free, Palm Oil Free, Gluten-Free, and Soy Free. You can find Miyoko's at most major retailers.
Kite Hill
Kite Hill is another popular brand, known for their delicious cream cheese. Their chive cream cheese and ricotta are perfect for pizzas and pastas. They also offer a range of ravioli options.
Misha's Kind Foods
Misha's Kind Foods offers a rich and creamy cheese with flavours like Black Truffle, Smoked Cheddar, and Mediterranean. Their cheese is made from a blend of cashews, purified water, almonds, vegan cultures, salt, olive oil, and spices. You can find their products at Whole Foods and other select retailers.
Yvonne's
If you're looking for a more gourmet option, Yvonne's offers delicious and creamy vegan cheese. The company founder, Yvonne Ardestani, is a French-trained chef who creates delicious treats without dairy, eggs, or gluten. Her dairy-free goat cheese comes in flavours like Roasted Garlic, Onion & Chive, Black Truffle, and Cranberry & Dill. You can order Yvonne's cheese directly from their website.
While finding the right dairy-free cheese may take some trial and error, these brands are a great place to start. Remember that taste preferences vary, so don't be afraid to explore different options until you find the ones that suit your palate.
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Frequently asked questions
Some popular dairy-free cheese brands are Follow Your Heart, Kite Hill, Miyokos, and Trader Joe's.
Yes, there are many different types of dairy-free cheese, including mozzarella, gouda, cheddar, feta, and cream cheese.
Dairy-free cheese is generally considered healthier than dairy cheese because it is lower in saturated fat and often contains added vitamin B12. However, it may have a higher sodium content and less protein than dairy cheese. Additionally, some store-bought dairy-free cheese may contain unhealthy additives.
Opinions vary on the taste of dairy-free cheese. Some people find that it tastes terrible and is a poor substitute for dairy cheese, while others claim that certain brands taste just like regular cheese. It is important to note that dairy-free cheese is not meant to be an exact replica of dairy cheese, but rather a tasty alternative for those who cannot or choose not to consume dairy.
Dairy-free cheese is widely available in most major retailers and grocery stores, including Walmart, Sprouts, and Whole Foods. Some popular online retailers for dairy-free cheese are GrubMarket and the brand's websites.
