Andy Montoya
Cheese is a beloved food for many, but it can be high in calories and fat and may cause digestive issues for some. Fortunately, there are many healthy substitutes for cheese that can be just as tasty and satisfying. For those looking to reduce their dairy intake, follow a vegan diet, or simply try something new, there are several cheese substitutes to choose from.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Substitute for soft cheeses like ricotta, goat cheese, cottage cheese, cream cheese, and queso fresco | Macadamia 'Ricotta', mashed banana, pureed silken tofu, plant-based soft cheese made from cashews and lemon juice, hummus, soy yogurt |
| Substitute for hard cheeses like parmesan, pecorino, or ricotta salata | Brazil Nut 'Parmesan', olives, sun-dried tomatoes, roasted almonds, nutritional yeast, sesame seeds |
| Substitute for mozzarella | Miyoko's Organic Cashew Milk Mozzarella, extra virgin olive oil |
| Substitute for feta | Violife Feta, crumbled roasted almonds or tofu |
| Substitute for cream cheese | Mashed avocado, nut-based spreads like almond or cashew butter |
| Substitute for Velveeta cheese | Pureed butternut squash or sweet potato |
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What You'll Learn
Nutritional yeast as a substitute for parmesan cheese
Nutritional yeast, also known as "nooch", is a plant-based, deactivated form of yeast that can be used as a substitute for parmesan cheese. It has a nutty, cheesy, and rich umami flavour and is often used as a topping for popcorn, potatoes, pasta, bread, pizza dough, and kale chips. It can also be added to sauces, soups, and dips. Nutritional yeast is a complete protein, meaning it contains all the essential amino acids, and is an excellent source of B vitamins, including folate and vitamin B12, which is important for DNA production, red blood cell formation, and nerve health. It is also low in calories and can be used as a topping or ingredient in various dishes, such as lasagna, mac and cheese, gravy, and pesto.
When substituting nutritional yeast for parmesan cheese, the general rule is to use about half the amount of nutritional yeast as you would parmesan, as the flavour of nutritional yeast is quite concentrated. However, the exact amount may vary depending on the recipe and individual taste preferences. Some people also add other ingredients, such as lemon juice, garlic powder, salt, or cashews, to enhance the flavour and texture of the nutritional yeast.
Nutritional yeast is a popular choice for vegans and those looking for a healthier alternative to parmesan cheese, as it is plant-based and free from animal products. It is also generally sold in flakes or powder form in plastic containers, making it convenient and easy to store.
In addition to its health and flavour benefits, nutritional yeast is also a versatile ingredient that can be used in a variety of recipes and dishes. It can be sprinkled on top of dishes as a finishing touch or incorporated into sauces and fillings to add a cheesy, nutty flavour.
Overall, nutritional yeast is a nutritious, tasty, and versatile substitute for parmesan cheese that can be used in a variety of dishes to add flavour and health benefits.
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Mashed avocado as a substitute for cream cheese
While cheese is packed with nutrients, such as calcium, protein, and vitamins A and B12, it is also high in calories and can be difficult to digest. As such, there are several healthy substitutes for cheese that are just as tasty and satisfying.
One such substitute is mashed avocado, which can be used as a replacement for cream cheese. Avocados are a great source of healthy fats, fiber, and potassium, and they provide a creamy texture and nutty flavor. To make an avocado cream cheese spread, simply mash an avocado with a fork and blend in the other ingredients. This spread can be used on bagels, toast, or as a dip for vegetables.
In addition to mashed avocado, there are several other healthy substitutes for cheese. Nut-based spreads, such as almond or cashew butter, are lower in fat and calories but still provide a creamy texture. Nutritional yeast, a plant-based alternative, provides a nutty and cheesy flavor and can be used as a topping for salads, pasta, and other dishes. For those looking for a cottage cheese alternative, mashed banana or pureed silken tofu provide a creamy texture and slightly sweet flavor. Finally, pureed butternut squash or sweet potato can be used as a replacement for Velveeta cheese, adding a creamy texture and natural sweetness to soups, sauces, and dips.
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Pureed butternut squash or sweet potato as a substitute for Velveeta cheese
Pureed butternut squash or sweet potato can be used as a substitute for Velveeta cheese. While the flavour is not the same as cheese, it does have similar elements to it. Both of these substitutes are naturally sweet and provide a creamy texture without the added fat and calories. Butternut squash and sweet potato are both rich in vitamins A and C, fibre, and potassium, and are great for adding flavour and texture to soups, sauces, and dips. Pureed butternut squash or sweet potato can be used in mac and cheese dishes, or as a dipping sauce for vegetables.
Pureed butternut squash can be used as a substitute for Velveeta cheese in a mac and cheese dish. To make this, preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Cook the macaroni according to the package instructions, then drain and set aside. In a medium saucepan, cook the butternut squash in boiling water until tender, about 10-12 minutes.
Sweet potatoes can also be used as a substitute for butternut squash in recipes. They have a similar texture: firm and dense. Sweet potatoes can be used in recipes that call for roasted butternut squash. The oven temperature should be the same and the cooking time should be similar. Just keep an eye on the potatoes after the first 25 minutes of cooking and remove them from the oven when they are caramelized on the outside and soft in the centre. There is no need to peel the sweet potatoes, just scrub the skins and then cut them into 2-3 cm (approx. 1-inch) pieces.
There are several other healthy substitutes for cheese. Nutritional yeast, also known as "nooch", is a plant-based alternative that provides a nutty and cheesy flavour. It is rich in B vitamins, fibre, and amino acids and is a complete protein. It can be used as a topping for salads, pasta, and other dishes, and as a substitute for cheese in recipes such as lasagna, mac and cheese, gravy, and pesto.
Mashed avocado or nut-based spreads like almond or cashew butter can be used instead of cream cheese. These options are lower in fat and calories but still provide a creamy texture and nutty flavour. Avocado is a great source of healthy fats, fibre, and potassium, while nut butters are rich in protein, healthy fats, and vitamins.
Other cheese substitutes include mashed banana or pureed silken tofu in place of cottage cheese, crumbled roasted almonds or tofu instead of feta cheese, hummus instead of goat cheese, whipped coconut cream or pureed silken tofu instead of mascarpone cheese, and mashed tofu or pureed white beans in place of ricotta cheese.
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Macadamia 'ricotta' as a substitute for ricotta cheese
Cheese is often a staple in many diets, but it can be high in calories and tough on some people's digestive systems. If you're looking for a healthy substitute for ricotta cheese, one option to consider is macadamia 'yoghurt'. This plant-based alternative is made by blending macadamia nuts with lemon juice and probiotic powder, and allowing the mixture to ferment at room temperature for 8-12 hours before refrigerating. The result is a creamy, tangy spread with a similar texture to ricotta cheese.
Macadamia 'yoghurt' is a good source of healthy fats and protein, and can be used in a variety of dishes. It can be spread on toast, used as a dip for vegetables, or added to pasta sauces for a creamy texture and nutty flavor. When used as a substitute for ricotta cheese, macadamia 'yoghurt' provides a similar mouthfeel and flavor profile, making it a suitable option for those looking for a dairy-free or vegan alternative.
In addition to macadamia 'yoghurt', there are several other substitutes for ricotta cheese that are worth considering. One option is cottage cheese, which has a similar texture and flavor to ricotta but with a slightly tangier taste. Another option is mascarpone, an Italian cheese with a creamy texture and mild flavor. However, due to its richness and sweetness, mascarpone is best suited for desserts rather than savory dishes.
For those looking for a plant-based substitute, mashed tofu or pureed white beans can be used in place of ricotta cheese. These options provide a similar creamy texture and mild flavor while being lower in calories and fat. Additionally, nutritional yeast can be used as a topping or sprinkle to add a nutty and cheesy flavor to dishes that typically call for ricotta cheese.
Whether you choose macadamia 'yoghurt' or one of the other substitutes, it's important to consider the specific dish you're preparing and adjust the ingredients and quantities accordingly. Experimenting with different alternatives can help you find the best option for your taste preferences and dietary needs.
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Miyoko's Organic Cashew Milk Mozzarella as a substitute for mozzarella
Cheese is a delicious treat, but it can be high in calories and fat and may be tough on some people's digestive systems. Miyoko's Organic Cashew Milk Mozzarella is a great substitute for mozzarella cheese and can be used in a variety of dishes.
Miyoko's Organic Cashew Milk Mozzarella is a plant-based alternative to traditional mozzarella cheese. It is made from organic cultured cashew milk, which is created by milling cashews into creamy plant milk. This milk is then cultured and crafted into mozzarella using traditional creamery methods. The result is a soft, silky cheese with a thick, creamy texture, a springy bounce, and a mild, slightly sweet taste. It is also free from melt-inhibiting ingredients, allowing it to melt perfectly on pizza or in a panini.
This cashew milk mozzarella is a healthier option than traditional cheese as it is organic and free from animal products. It is suitable for those following a vegan or dairy-free diet and can be used as a substitute in many dishes. The cheese can be added to a pasta bake or used as a topping for pizza, paninis, or salads. It can also be cold-smoked over hickory chips to add a pleasant, smoky flavor.
In addition to Miyoko's Organic Cashew Milk Mozzarella, there are several other healthy substitutes for cheese. Nutritional yeast, for example, provides a nutty and cheesy flavor and can be used in place of cheese in many dishes. Mashed avocado or nut-based spreads like almond or cashew butter are also lower in fat and calories while still providing a creamy texture and nutty flavor. Pureed butternut squash or sweet potato can be used as a substitute in dishes like mac and cheese, providing a creamy texture and natural sweetness without the added fat and calories.
These alternatives offer a great way to enjoy the flavor and texture of cheese while incorporating healthier options into your diet.
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Frequently asked questions
There are several healthy substitutes for cheese, depending on the type of cheese you are looking to replace. For soft cheeses like ricotta, goat cheese, cottage cheese, cream cheese, and queso fresco, you can use Macadamia 'Ricotta', a blend of cashews and lemon juice, or creamy hummus. For harder cheeses like Parmesan, pecorino, or ricotta salata, you can use nutritional yeast, Brazil nuts, olives, or sun-dried tomatoes. For a vegan mozzarella substitute, try Miyoko's Organic Cashew Milk Mozzarella.
If you are looking for a vegan option, Violife Feta tastes and crumbles just like regular feta. For a non-vegan option, you can use crumbled roasted almonds or tofu, which provide a similar salty and tangy flavor.
Mashed avocado is a great substitute for cream cheese as it has a similar creamy texture and is a good source of healthy fats, fiber, and potassium.
Cottage cheese can be replaced with mashed banana or pureed silken tofu, which both provide a creamy texture and a slightly sweet flavor.
While there are commercial plant-based cheese options, these do not always melt like regular cheese. Instead, you can try drizzling extra virgin olive oil on your pizza or sandwich for a satisfying substitute for melted mozzarella.
