Randy Chandler
While it may not be available in shops or restaurants, almond milk cheese is a popular vegan alternative to traditional cheese. It is made by blending blanched almonds with water and straining the mixture through a cheesecloth to create a firm, spreadable, dairy-free cheese. This cheese can be used in a variety of dishes, including sandwiches, salads, and crackers, and can even be shredded and melted on pizza. With the rising popularity of vegan diets and the increasing demand for dairy-free alternatives, almond milk cheese provides a tasty and healthy option for those looking to reduce their consumption of dairy products.
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What You'll Learn
Almond milk cheese recipes
Almond milk can be used to make vegan cheese, which can be a tasty alternative to dairy cheese. Here are some recipes to try:
Vegan Cheddar Cheese
This recipe by Chef Cindy uses almond milk to make a vegan cheddar cheese. The process is relatively easy, and you can use store-bought almond milk or make your own. In addition to almond milk, you will need agar flakes, arrowroot, chickpea flour, nutritional yeast flakes, garlic, oil, vinegar, and sea salt. First, mix one cup of almond milk, oil, and vinegar in a measuring cup and whisk into the dry ingredients. Next, add the starch blend to the agar mixture and cook on low heat for 3–5 minutes until it has thickened. Pour the mixture into silicone molds and refrigerate for 30 minutes until firm. You can also pour the mixture into a heat-proof glass dish and refrigerate for 30 minutes to make slices.
Firm Almond 'Cheese' Roll
This recipe by The Sensitive Foodie is a firm, creamy, and spreadable almond-based 'cheese' that can be used for sandwiches, crackers, and salads. It is also a great addition to a cheese board. To make this 'cheese', you will need blanched almonds, or you can use leftover almond pulp from making almond milk. Soak the almonds in water overnight, then drain and rinse them. Place the almonds in a blender with the other ingredients and blend until smooth. Line a sieve with cheesecloth and place the mix inside, tying it up and squeezing to remove any remaining liquid. Place a weight on top and leave overnight in the fridge to drain. In the morning, divide the mix into three portions and roll each portion into one of three different coatings (black pepper, chilli flakes, and mixed herbs).
Vegan Pepper Jack Cheese
This recipe by Vegan Richa uses almond milk to make a vegan, gluten-free, dairy-free pepper jack cheese that shreds and melts. In addition to almond milk, you will need chickpea flour, nooch, and pepper flakes. First, mix the almond milk starch mixture and cook on medium heat for 4–5 minutes. Add in the pepper flakes and adjust the salt, tang (lemon juice), and spice to taste. Pour the mixture into a greased glass container and let it set in the refrigerator for at least an hour. Use a large grater to shred the cheese.
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Vegan cheese market
The vegan cheese market has seen significant growth in recent years, driven by increasing consumer demand for plant-based products and ethical concerns about animal cruelty and the environmental impact of the dairy industry. The market size was valued at USD 2.43 billion in 2021 and is projected to reach USD 8.1 billion by 2034, growing at a CAGR of 8.5%.
Vegan cheese, made from various bases such as nuts, soy, and peas, offers a dairy-free alternative for those with lactose intolerance or ethical concerns. The high cost of vegan cheese, due to the use of nutrient-dense ingredients, has been a challenge for market growth, but companies are investing in product development to improve affordability and replicate the taste and texture of traditional cheese.
The vegan mozzarella cheese segment held the largest revenue share of over 30% in 2021 due to its versatility in Italian dishes, while the ricotta segment is projected to register the fastest growth, with a CAGR of 14% from 2022 to 2030. The B2C segment led the global market in 2021 with a share of more than 50%, benefiting from increased consumer disposable income and product availability in retail stores.
The vegan cheese market is highly competitive, with regional and international players launching new products to meet consumer demands. Companies such as Aldi, Upfield, and Treeline Cheese have introduced vegan cheese brands and product lines, while brands like Miyokos Creamery have experienced significant growth by offering innovative cheese spreads with flavorful ingredients. The active endorsement of vegan products by celebrities and sports personalities has also contributed to the expansion of the vegan cheese market.
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Making almond milk
Step 1: Soaking the Almonds
The first step is to soak the almonds in water. Place the desired amount of almonds in a bowl and cover them with about an inch of water. It is recommended to soak the almonds overnight or for up to two days in the refrigerator. The longer you soak them, the creamier your almond milk will be.
Step 2: Draining and Rinsing
After soaking, drain the almonds from their soaking water and rinse them thoroughly under cool running water. The almonds should now feel slightly squishy when pinched.
Step 3: Blending
Combine the drained almonds with fresh water in a blender. A ratio of 1 cup of almonds to 2 cups of water will yield a consistency similar to 2% milk. You can adjust the water quantity to make it thinner or thicker according to your preference. Add a pinch of salt and any desired add-ins for sweetness or flavour, such as dates, vanilla, cacao powder, or berries. Blend the mixture for 1-2 minutes, or until the almonds are broken down into a fine meal and the water turns white and opaque.
Step 4: Straining
Line a fine-mesh strainer with a nut milk bag or cheesecloth and place it over a measuring cup or bowl. Pour the blended almond mixture into the strainer and gather the edges of the bag or cloth. Squeeze and press with clean hands to extract as much almond milk as possible.
Step 5: Sweetening and Adjusting Flavour (Optional)
Taste the freshly made almond milk and adjust the sweetness or flavour to your liking. You can add a sweetener of your choice, such as honey, agave nectar, maple syrup, or any other preferred alternative. Blend the milk again until smooth and evenly combined.
Storage and Shelf Life
Homemade almond milk typically lasts for 4-5 days in the refrigerator. It is important to sterilize your equipment and ensure the freshness of your ingredients to maximize its shelf life. If you notice souring before the expected timeframe, sterilize your equipment and jars by boiling water or running them through the dishwasher.
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Nut allergies
Symptoms of a nut allergy can vary and may include milder reactions such as raised red bumps on the skin (hives), a runny nose, cramps, nausea, or vomiting. More severe allergic reactions, such as anaphylaxis, can be life-threatening and require immediate medical attention. Symptoms of anaphylaxis include low blood pressure and blocked airways, in addition to the milder symptoms mentioned above. If you suspect that you or someone you know is experiencing anaphylaxis, call emergency services immediately. Adrenaline injectors, such as EpiPens, can be life-saving in these situations and should be administered into the outer mid-thigh.
The best way to manage a nut allergy is to avoid all products containing nuts. Learning to read food labels is crucial to prevent accidental ingestion of allergens. People with nut allergies should also be cautious when eating in common areas or trying new foods, as cross-contact with nuts can easily occur during food preparation or storage.
If you suspect that you or your child has a nut allergy, it is important to see an allergy specialist for testing and guidance. Skin tests, blood tests, and food challenges are some of the methods used to diagnose nut allergies. Diagnosing an allergy can be challenging, and sometimes negative reactions to food may be due to factors other than allergies, such as food poisoning or sensitivities. However, if you experience any mild allergic symptoms after consuming nuts, the risk of a more severe reaction in the future may be higher.
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Vegan cheese taste
Vegan cheese is made from plant-based sources such as almond milk, cashew milk, or coconut milk. It is a dairy-free alternative to cheese that can be a game-changer for those following a vegan diet. While the vegan cheese market has improved over the years, the taste and texture of vegan cheese may vary depending on the brand and type.
Taste and Texture
Some people find that vegan cheese does not taste exactly like dairy cheese, and the quality may not always match the real deal. However, there have been incredible strides made in the taste and texture of vegan cheese. The taste and texture of vegan cheese can vary depending on the brand and type. Some brands are amazing, while others are just awful. It really depends on the brand and personal preference.
Vegan cheese is generally considered healthier than dairy cheese as it is lower in saturated fat and often fortified with vitamin B12. However, it may have a higher sodium content and lower protein content than regular dairy cheese.
Homemade Vegan Cheese
Some people prefer to make their own vegan cheese at home, using ingredients such as nut milk, agar flakes, arrowroot, chickpea flour, nutritional yeast flakes, garlic, oil, vinegar, and sea salt. Homemade vegan cheese can be a tasty and customizable option, but it may require more time and effort than store-bought cheese.
Overall Impressions
Overall, the taste and texture of vegan cheese can be a mixed bag. While some people find it to be a decent alternative to dairy cheese, especially when melted, others may find it too salty and greasy or lacking in flavor. It is important to manage expectations when trying vegan cheese, as it may not taste exactly like the dairy cheese one is used to. However, with the increasing demand for vegan cheese, there is continued innovation and improvement in the taste and texture of these dairy-free alternatives.
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Frequently asked questions
Yes, you can make cheese from almond milk. It is a popular option for those who are vegan or dairy-free.
There are various recipes available online, but most involve making almond milk, mixing it with thickening agents and flavourings, and then heating and moulding the mixture.
Almond milk cheese does not taste exactly like cheese, but it is a tasty alternative. It has a creamy texture and can be used in many recipes that call for cheese.
Yes, you can buy almond milk cheese, but it can be expensive. Many people choose to make their own at home.
Almond milk cheese can be used in a variety of recipes, including pizzas, sandwiches, salads, and soups. It is also a great snack on a platter with biscuits and crackers.
