Kamil Perry
There are several brands that offer dairy-free vegan jalapeno cheese, including Daiya, Follow Your Heart, and WayFare Foods. These products are made from plant-based ingredients such as oats, chickpeas, and coconut oil, and are designed to be used just like regular dairy cheese. They can be sliced, shredded, or melted, and are perfect for adding a spicy kick to dishes such as grilled cheese, lasagna, and quesadillas.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Dairy-free | Yes |
| Vegan | Yes |
| Ingredients | Water, oat flour, pea protein, coconut oil, modified potato starch, corn starch, green jalapeño peppers, natural flavors, garlic, konjac flour, fruit juice, yeast extract, salt, tricalcium phosphate, xanthan gum, lactic acid |
| Allergen-free | Dairy, gluten, soy, eggs, peanuts, kosher, halal, non-GMO |
| Style | Havarti |
| Brand | Daiya |
| Weight | 7.1 oz |
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What You'll Learn
Vegan jalapeno cheese ingredients
Vegan jalapeno cheese is dairy-free and usually made with plant-based ingredients. There are a variety of recipes for vegan jalapeno cheese, and the ingredients vary depending on the recipe. Here is a list of ingredients that are commonly used in vegan jalapeno cheese:
- Oats and Chickpeas: Some vegan jalapeno cheeses, like the Daiya Dairy-Free Jalapeno Havarti Style Vegan Cheese, are made with oats and chickpeas. The oat base is created by combining filtered water and oat flour, and the cheese also includes chickpea protein and chickpea flour.
- Cashews: Another popular option for vegan jalapeno cheese is to use cashews as a base. Soaked raw cashews are blended to create a creamy, buttery consistency, which is then combined with other ingredients to create a "'cheesy'" taste.
- Nutritional Yeast: Nutritional yeast is commonly used in vegan cheese recipes to impart a "cheesy" and nutty flavour. It is an essential ingredient in creating the desired savoury taste.
- Jalapenos: Of course, jalapenos are a key ingredient in vegan jalapeno cheese. Roasted jalapenos are often used to add a spicy kick, and jarred jalapenos can be added for extra spice and a pop of colour. The brine from jarred jalapenos can also be included to add fermented depth to the flavour profile.
- Coconut Oil: Refined coconut oil is an important ingredient in vegan jalapeno cheese, as it provides the perfect "cheesy" mouthfeel. It is essential in achieving the desired texture and ensuring the cheese melts smoothly.
- Starch: Different types of starch, such as tapioca starch, cornstarch, or potato starch, are added to thicken the cheese mixture and provide stretch when melted.
- Seasonings: Various seasonings are used to enhance the flavour of vegan jalapeno cheese. This includes salt, garlic, onion powder, and red pepper flakes. Sun-dried tomatoes can also be added for extra savoury flavour.
These ingredients come together to create a delicious, dairy-free alternative to traditional jalapeno cheese. The versatility of these recipes allows for the cheese to be sliced, shredded, or melted, making it perfect for a variety of dishes.
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Health benefits of vegan jalapeno cheese
Yes, vegan jalapeño cheese is dairy-free. It is made from plant-based ingredients such as oats and chickpeas, and does not contain any milk, butter, cheese, sour cream, yogurt, whey, casein, ghee, or lactose.
Now, let's discuss the health benefits of vegan jalapeño cheese in detail:
Nutrient-Rich: Vegan jalapeño cheese is a nutrient-dense food, offering more than just the spicy kick of jalapeños. Jalapeños are an excellent source of vitamins, minerals, fibre, and antioxidants. Specifically, they contain vitamins A, C, B, K, and E, as well as minerals like zinc, iron, and magnesium.
Immunity Boost: The vitamin C and antioxidant content in jalapeños contribute to a stronger immune system. Vitamin C, also known as ascorbic acid, is a powerful antioxidant that helps the body fight off diseases and infections more effectively.
Skin Health: Jalapeños are rich in vitamins A and C, both of which promote healthy skin. Vitamin C helps the skin recover from sun damage and supports collagen production, keeping skin firm and radiant.
Weight Management: Jalapeños have been associated with weight loss properties. They are extremely low in calories and can boost metabolism, burn fat, and reduce appetite. Additionally, capsaicin, a compound in jalapeños, has been linked to increased metabolic rate and fat oxidation, further aiding in weight management.
Digestive Health: The fibre content in jalapeños contributes to healthy digestion. Fibre helps promote regular bowel movements and a healthy gut environment.
Anti-Inflammatory Effects: Capsaicin, the compound responsible for the spiciness of jalapeños, also possesses anti-inflammatory properties. This can help reduce pain and inflammation in the body.
It is important to note that while vegan jalapeño cheese offers these health benefits, it should be consumed in moderation as part of a balanced diet. Jalapeños are spicy, and some individuals may experience a burning sensation or other side effects if consumed in excess. Additionally, those with certain digestive conditions, such as GERD or IBS, may need to monitor their intake of jalapeños.
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How to use vegan jalapeno cheese
Vegan jalapeño cheese is a dairy-free cheese option that can be used in a variety of dishes. Here are some ideas on how to use and enjoy this spicy plant-based cheese:
Melting and Shredding
Vegan jalapeño cheese can be melted and shredded, making it a versatile ingredient. You can shred it over dishes like a vegan smoky chipotle lasagna to create a creamy, spicy topping. It can also be melted onto bagels, grilled cheese sandwiches, or enchiladas, adding a kick of jalapeño to these classic dishes.
Cubing and Slicing
This cheese can be cubed or sliced, making it perfect for snack plates or as a topping for dishes like ramen. Cube it and serve with cured meats, crisp apple slices, and crunchy crackers for a well-rounded, savoury snack.
Dips and Sauces
Vegan jalapeño cheese can be used as a base for dips and sauces. For example, a vegan jalapeño queso dip can be made with soaked cashews, roasted jalapeños, and nutritional yeast, creating a creamy, spicy, and "cheesy" dip perfect for nachos or tortilla chips.
Platters and Creations
For those who enjoy a direct and simple approach, this cheese can be enjoyed as part of a vegan cheese platter, allowing the flavour of the jalapeño to shine. You can also get creative and use it in any recipe that calls for cheese, such as quesadillas, where the cheese is the star ingredient.
With its versatility and unique flavour, vegan jalapeño cheese is a great option for those seeking dairy-free alternatives without compromising on taste and texture.
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Where to buy vegan jalapeno cheese
If you're looking to buy vegan jalapeño cheese, there are a few options available to you. Firstly, you can opt for a pre-made cheese such as the Daiya Dairy-Free Jalapeño Havarti Style Vegan Cheese Block, which is available at retailers like Amazon and Whole Foods. This cheese is made with a blend of oats and chickpeas, offering a creamy, melt-your-heart flavour without compromising on taste. It's also free from common allergens, making it an inclusive option for various dietary restrictions.
Alternatively, you can try making your own vegan jalapeño cheese at home. The Curious Chickpea, for example, offers a recipe for vegan roasted jalapeño cheese that's quick, easy, and versatile. It uses ingredients like refined coconut oil, tapioca starch, and nutritional yeast to create a cheese that melts and stretches, making it perfect for quesadillas, grilled cheese, and enchiladas.
If you're feeling adventurous, Brand New Vegan has a recipe for vegan jalapeño poppers that involves making a dairy-free cream cheese from scratch, stuffing it into fresh jalapeños, and then air-frying them to crispy perfection. This option provides a healthier snack, perfect for game day or any occasion when you want to indulge without compromising your dietary choices.
Lastly, for those who enjoy the convenience of online shopping, Amazon offers a variety of vegan jalapeño cheese options, including the Daiya Dairy-Free Jalapeño Havarti Style Vegan Cheese Block, providing a spicy and creamy addition to your favourite dishes.
Whether you choose to buy pre-made cheese or experiment with making your own, these options ensure that you can enjoy the flavourful combination of jalapeño and cheese while adhering to a vegan or dairy-free lifestyle.
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Vegan jalapeno cheese reviews
Vegan Jalapeño Cheese Reviews
There are a variety of vegan jalapeño cheese options available, including cream cheese, grilled cheese, and cheese blocks. Here are some reviews of these products:
Vegan Jalapeño Cream Cheese
"This Vegan Jalapeño Cream Cheese might be TOO GOOD, in fact! It is simply delectable smeared on a bagel or used as a dollop on a pizza... The key ingredient is cashews. They add a richness that goes so nicely with the sharp bite of the Jalapeño." The recipe is also said to be super quick and easy to make and has been enjoyed by both vegans and non-vegans.
Vegan Jalapeño Popper Grilled Cheese
This recipe is described as "easy to make, gooey, delicious, and the perfect comfort food". It is a blend of grilled cheese and jalapeño poppers. The recipe uses vegan cheese shreds such as cheddar and mozzarella style, along with vegan cream cheese, chives, jalapeños, and seasonings.
Daiya Dairy-Free Jalapeño Havarti Style Vegan Cheese Block
This product is described as "the best dairy-free block cheese out there, hands down!" It is allergy-friendly, free from common allergens, and certified plant-based. It can be used in a variety of dishes, such as shredded over lasagna or as part of a vegan cheese platter.
The Curious Chickpea's Vegan Roasted Jalapeño Cheese
This recipe is said to be very versatile and simple to make, with a similar texture and taste to pepper jack cheese. It can be used in quesadillas, grilled cheeses, enchiladas, and more. The cheese is made with a combination of roasted jalapeños, raw garlic, brine from jarred jalapeños, refined coconut oil, tapioca starch, and nutritional yeast, giving it a stretchy, melty texture.
Simple Truth Plant-Based Cream Cheese
This cream cheese is made mostly from beans and is described as "a bit bland unless [you] added herbs". It is also said to get mouldy quickly. However, it is soft and easy to mix.
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Frequently asked questions
Yes, vegan jalapeno cheese is dairy-free.
It is made from a blend of plant-based ingredients such as oats, chickpeas, coconut oil, and jalapeno peppers.
You can buy it online from Amazon or Whole Foods Market.
No, it cannot be frozen. It should always be kept refrigerated and is best consumed within 7 days of opening.
It can be sliced, cubed, shredded, or melted, just like regular dairy cheese. You can add it to grilled cheese, lasagna, ramen, snack plates, mac & cheese, sandwiches, or use it as a topping for artichoke dip.
