Bushra Griffith
Dairy-free cheese, also known as vegan cheese, is made from plant-based proteins or vegetable proteins. Common sources of these proteins include soybeans, almonds, and almond milk. Vegan cheese can also be made from seeds, such as sesame, sunflower, cashew, pine nut, peanuts, and coconut oil. Other ingredients used in dairy-free cheese include nutritional yeast, tapioca, rice, potatoes, and spices. The process of making vegan cheese shares some similarities with traditional cheesemaking, including the use of bacteria to separate plant proteins, and the addition of thickening agents, oils, and other ingredients to create a cheese-like consistency.
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What You'll Learn
Soy, nuts, vegetable oils
Dairy-free cheese can be made from a variety of plant-based sources, including soy, nuts, and vegetable oils.
Soy
Soy is a popular base for dairy-free cheese, with brands like Violife, So Delicious, Follow Your Heart, and Trader Joe's offering soy-based alternatives to dairy cheese. These products are designed to mimic the taste, texture, and meltability of traditional dairy cheese, making them a popular choice for those new to the vegan lifestyle or those with dairy allergies or intolerances.
Nuts
Nut-based cheeses are another common option in the dairy-free cheese market. Nuts such as cashews, almonds, and macadamia nuts are often used to create creamy, spreadable cheeses with a crumbly texture similar to that of traditional feta or brie. These cheeses are lower in saturated fat and sodium than dairy cheeses and are more environmentally sustainable. Additionally, nut-based cheeses can be easily made at home, with recipes that use nutritional yeast, agar powder, and cornstarch to create a cheese-like flavor and texture.
Vegetable Oils
Vegetable oils, such as coconut oil, are also used in dairy-free cheese production. While these oils may contribute to an undesirable increase in weight gain and bloating, they can provide a creamy texture and a meltable quality similar to dairy cheese. Some brands, like Violife, use coconut oil in their dairy-free feta cheese, which is also free of soy and nuts.
Dairy-free cheese has come a long way, and today's options offer a wide range of flavors and textures that can satisfy cheese cravings without the use of dairy products.
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Bacteria and plant proteins
Dairy-free cheese, or vegan cheese, is made using plant-based proteins derived from vegetables, seeds, nuts, and soybeans. The process of making vegan cheese involves separating plant proteins using bacteria, and then adding other ingredients like oils and thickeners to create a cheese-like consistency.
The first step in making vegan cheese is to separate the plant proteins from the overall plant matter. This is typically done using bacteria. The plant protein sources can come from a variety of plants, including soybeans, nuts, seeds, and root vegetables. Soy is one of the most common ingredients for plant-based cheese, derived from soybeans native to East Asia.
Fermentation
After the plant proteins are separated, ingredients such as oils and thickeners are added to create a cheese-like consistency and improve the taste. The mixture is then left to sit, allowing the bacteria to further break down the plant proteins. Fermentation is a critical step in replicating the texture and flavor of dairy cheese. However, the fermentation process for vegan cheese is different from that of dairy cheese due to the different behavior of plant-based proteins.
Challenges and Innovations
One of the challenges in developing dairy-free cheese alternatives is replicating the complex flavors, textures, and melting properties of traditional cheese. The proteins in plant-based milk react differently to culturing agents and do not coagulate in the same way as dairy proteins. This makes it difficult to achieve the same sensory attributes and functionality as dairy cheese.
However, ongoing advancements in food science and technology are enhancing the development of dairy-free cheese alternatives. For example, innovations in ingredient combinations, such as using cashews with Rejuvelac to make vegan Mozzarella, are improving the sensory and functional properties of these products.
Health Considerations
Vegan cheese is generally lower in fat, protein, and calcium compared to dairy cheese, and it may be higher in sodium. While it can be part of a healthy diet when consumed in moderation, it should not be relied upon as a sole source of nutrition. It is important to maintain a well-balanced diet that includes a variety of plant-based foods.
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Coconut oil, rice, potatoes
Dairy-free cheese can be made from a variety of plant-based ingredients, including coconut oil, rice, and potatoes. Each of these ingredients offers a unique take on dairy-free cheese, catering to different dietary preferences and restrictions.
Coconut oil is a popular choice for dairy-free cheese, as it provides a creamy texture and rich flavor. It is often combined with plant-based milk, such as coconut milk, to create a cheese that melts and slices like its dairy counterpart. However, some people may find that cheese made solely with coconut oil can be too greasy, and it may not be suitable for those with coconut allergies. To address this, coconut oil can be used in moderation or substituted with other plant-based oils.
Rice cheese is another option for those seeking a dairy-free alternative. It is not only dairy-free but also soy-free, making it a good choice for those with soy and milk allergies. However, it is important to carefully read the ingredient labels, as some rice cheeses may contain casein, a milk derivative, or other allergens such as soy derivatives. Rice cheese provides a suitable option for those with multiple allergies, but it may be challenging to find in certain regions.
Potatoes also serve as a versatile base for dairy-free cheese. Finely grated potatoes can be combined with a creamy, "cheesy" sauce, typically made from soaked cashews, almond milk, nutritional yeast, and seasonings. This combination creates a comforting, savory casserole that can be enjoyed as a side dish or a main course. The addition of vegan cheese and crispy potato chip crumbs enhances the "cheesy" experience, making it a popular choice for holiday gatherings and family meals.
In conclusion, coconut oil, rice, and potatoes offer diverse options for creating delicious and satisfying dairy-free cheese. Each ingredient brings its unique characteristics, allowing individuals with different dietary preferences and restrictions to enjoy cheese alternatives that cater to their specific needs. Whether it's the creamy texture of coconut oil, the allergy-friendly nature of rice cheese, or the versatile potato-based casseroles, these dairy-free alternatives showcase creativity and innovation in plant-based cuisine.
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Nutritional yeast
One popular recipe for dairy-free cheese includes nutritional yeast, Yukon gold potatoes, cashews, sweet potatoes, apple cider vinegar, garlic, onion powder, olive oil, and salt. All the ingredients are blended until smooth, resulting in a creamy, oozy texture that mimics traditional cheese. The nutritional yeast contributes to the savoury flavour profile, making it a key component of the recipe.
While nutritional yeast is a staple in dairy-free cheese recipes, it is not essential. Some people may prefer to omit it due to taste preferences or dietary restrictions. Alternative recipes for dairy-free cheese may include ingredients like coconut milk, tapioca flour, spices, and vegetable shortening to achieve a similar texture and flavour without the use of nutritional yeast.
In summary, nutritional yeast is a popular ingredient in dairy-free cheese, providing a savoury, nutty, cheesy flavour. It enhances the taste of dairy-free cheese, making it a favoured choice for those seeking a delicious alternative to traditional cheese. However, it is not a mandatory ingredient, and recipes can be adapted to suit individual preferences and dietary needs.
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Thickening agents
Dairy-free cheese, or vegan cheese, is made using thickening agents, oils, and other ingredients to help create a cheese-like consistency. The process of making vegan cheese shares some similar steps with traditional cheesemaking.
- Tapioca: Tapioca is extracted from cassava plant roots and is often used as a thickener in soups, stews, gravies, and baked goods. It is added to vegan cheese to give it stretchy and melty properties.
- Starch: Potato starch, for example, is used as a thickening agent and provides a creamy texture to the cheese.
- Flour: Tapioca flour, for example, is used in vegan cheeses to add texture.
- Protein solids: These are used to create the mouthfeel and melt of dairy cheese.
- Gums: Gums are used in combination with protein solids, fats, and other ingredients to create a texture similar to dairy cheese.
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Frequently asked questions
Dairy-free cheese, or vegan cheese, is made from plant-based proteins or vegetable proteins. These include soybeans, almonds, and almond milk. Other ingredients include coconut oil, nutritional yeast, tapioca, rice, potatoes, and spices.
Dairy-free cheese does not taste the same as regular cheese. The flavours are not as complex and unique. However, companies are constantly innovating to make their products taste more like traditional cheese.
The process of making dairy-free cheese is similar to that of traditional cheese. First, plant proteins are separated using bacteria. Then, ingredients such as oils and thickeners are added to create a cheese-like consistency. The product is then left to sit, allowing the bacteria to break down the plant protein further.
