Frederic Melton
Dairy-free cheese has come a long way in recent years, and there are now plenty of tasty options available. While it used to be a hit or miss product, the quality of dairy-free cheese is rapidly improving as more people adopt diets free from dairy products. There are now several options that taste and melt like regular cheese, including cashew-based cheeses, almond-based cheeses, and even some plant-based cheeses made from ingredients like potatoes, carrots, and nutritional yeast. Some of the most popular brands offering dairy-free cheese include Violife, Follow Your Heart, Daiya, Miyokos, and Treeline Cheesemakers.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Dairy-free cheese brands | Violife, Follow Your Heart, Treeline Cheesemakers, Kraft NotCheese, Go Veggie |
| Dairy-free cheese types | Cheddar, Mozzarella, Gouda, Queso, Mascarpone, Goat-style |
| Improvements in dairy-free cheese | Taste, Texture, Melting characteristics |
| Dairy-free cheese use cases | Pizza, Grilled cheese sandwiches, Quesadillas, Macaroni and cheese, Desserts |
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What You'll Learn
Dairy-free cheese has improved in quality
Dairy-free cheese has come a long way in terms of quality and taste. In the past, dairy-free alternatives were limited to soy or almond milk, and a few tofu-based products. Now, consumers can find a wide range of dairy-free options that include coffee creamers, yogurt, and, most importantly, cheese. The improvement in quality can be attributed to the exponential growth of the vegan cheese retail sector, driven by an increase in food allergies, concerns about dairy production sustainability, and enhanced awareness of animal cruelty in the dairy industry.
One of the challenges in creating vegan cheese is replicating the texture, taste, and melting characteristics of dairy cheese. However, some brands have successfully overcome this hurdle and received high praise from consumers. For example, Violife, a favourite among many, offers dairy-free mozzarella and cheddar cheeses that are perfect for pizza nights or lasagna. Similarly, Follow Your Heart's Sliced Gouda has impressed consumers with its smooth melt and buttery flavour, making it a delicious addition to scrambled eggs.
Treeline Cheesemakers' Vegan Goat-Style Cashew Cheese in Blueberry flavour is another impressive option. This cheese, voted Best Vegan Cheese by USA Today's Reader's Choice Awards, is free from dairy, gluten, soy, lactose, sesame, and coconut or palm oil. It offers a unique and delicious flavour combination that has captivated both vegan and non-vegan cheese enthusiasts.
The variety of dairy-free cheese options extends beyond traditional cheese varieties. For instance, an almond-based cheese by Julie Piatt serves as a luxurious dessert option, doubling as mascarpone for sweet treats like cheesecake and tiramisu. This indulgent treat showcases the versatility of dairy-free cheese, proving that it can satisfy both savoury and sweet cravings.
In conclusion, the quality of dairy-free cheese has indeed improved significantly. With options that melt, stretch, and satisfy cheese cravings, vegan cheese is no longer considered a compromise. As consumer demand for vegan options continues to grow, we can expect even more delicious and innovative dairy-free cheese options to hit the market, making it easier than ever to enjoy cheese without compromising on taste or texture.
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Almond-based cheese
To make almond-based cheese, you will need blanched slivered almonds, olive oil, garlic, salt, and water. The almonds should be soaked in water for at least 2 hours or overnight to soften them and make them easier to blend. If you are short on time, you can also use boiling water to soak the almonds for 30 minutes. After soaking, the almonds are drained and rinsed, and then blended with the other ingredients until a smooth and creamy consistency is achieved.
Some people choose to add additional ingredients to enhance the flavor and texture of the cheese. For example, nutritional yeast, miso, or rejuvelac can be added to make the cheese taste cheesier. Unroasted cashews can also be added to create an even creamier consistency. If you want a thicker cheese, you can reduce the amount of water used or bake the cheese after blending.
Once the cheese is blended to the desired consistency, it can be eaten immediately as a spread or used in various dishes. It can be spread on toast, stuffed into jalapeños, used as a filling for homemade ravioli, or dolloped on pizza. If you want to bake the cheese, shape it into a round, refrigerate it for 12 hours, and then bake it at 300°F for 30 to 40 minutes. The baked cheese will have a dry and slightly firm top with a creamy inside.
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Cashew-based cheese
The first step in crafting this cheese is to soak the cashews. This step is crucial for achieving the desired texture. There are two recommended methods for soaking: the traditional method involves submerging the cashews in filtered water and leaving them covered for 6-8 hours or overnight. Alternatively, one can add the cashews to a saucepan, bring them to a boil, and then let them soak for 15-20 minutes. After soaking, the cashews should be drained and rinsed.
The next step is blending. The softened cashews are combined with the rest of the ingredients in a high-speed blender until a smooth and creamy consistency is achieved. It is important to scrape down the sides of the blender as needed and season to taste. The addition of water is crucial to achieving the desired creamy texture. However, too much water can result in a sauce-like consistency.
The final step is storage. The freshly made cashew cheese can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-5 days. It can also be frozen for later use. To reheat, simply microwave the cheese until warm, adding a small amount of water if it becomes too thick.
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The challenge of replicating cheese
Dairy-free cheese has come a long way in recent years, with a growing number of people adopting veganism or cutting down on dairy due to allergies, sustainability concerns, or animal cruelty. While there is now a dairy-free alternative for almost anything, cheese has proven particularly challenging to replicate.
However, some brands are now hitting the mark with their dairy-free cheese offerings. Violife, for instance, is a popular choice for its mozzarella and cheddar varieties, which melt well and taste good. Follow Your Heart's sliced Gouda is another favourite for its smooth, buttery flavour and melting capabilities. These cheeses are perfect for pizza night or gluten-free, dairy-free lasagna, and can even be used in desserts like cheesecake and tiramisu.
The key to successful dairy-free cheese lies in using the right ingredients to capture the essence of cheese while also meeting dietary restrictions. For instance, a soy-free option made from potato and corn starch has a texture similar to that of dairy-based Gouda. Similarly, cashew-based cheese, like the Vegan Goat-Style Cashew Cheese by Treeline Cheesemakers, offers a creamy, flavourful experience that appeals to both dairy consumers and non-dairy consumers.
While the quality of dairy-free cheese is rapidly improving, there is still room for growth. The science of replicating cheese is intricate, and brands are continually refining their recipes to create indulgent, luxurious, and delicious alternatives that can be enjoyed by everyone, regardless of their dietary preferences.
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Dairy-free cheese recommendations
The market for dairy-free cheese has grown exponentially in recent years, with many consumers turning to diets that exclude dairy for health, sustainability, and ethical reasons. While the science of replicating the texture, taste, and melting characteristics of cheese is challenging, there are now several dairy-free options that come close to the real thing.
One popular option is the brand Violife, which offers dairy-free cheddar and mozzarella varieties. Users report that these cheeses melt well and taste good, making them perfect for pizza night or dairy-free lasagna. Another brand that has developed a good reputation among consumers is Follow Your Heart, which offers sliced gouda that melts smoothly and has a buttery flavor.
For those looking for a more indulgent option, Julie Piatt's almond-based cheese has been described as the "Rolls Royce" standard of dairy-free cheeses. This cheese doubles as mascarpone and can be used in sweet desserts like cheesecake and tiramisu. If you're looking for a plant-based cheese that melts well, the new Kraft NotCheese plant-based Cheddar Style has been praised for its melting capabilities and distinct cheesy flavor.
Finally, for those who enjoy a bit of spice, House Party's plant-based queso has received positive reviews for its smooth texture and familiar ingredients, such as potatoes, carrots, nutritional yeast, and tomatoes. With so many options available, consumers can now find a dairy-free alternative that suits their taste preferences and dietary needs.
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Frequently asked questions
There are several dairy-free cheese options available. Some popular brands are Violife, Daiya, Follow Your Heart, Miyokos, and Treeline.
Yes, there are several dairy-free cheese options that are suitable for pizza. These include Violife, Miyokos, and Miokos.
Yes, some dairy-free cheese options that melt well include Violife, Follow Your Heart, Miyokos, and Parmela.
