Frederic Melton
Organic cheese is produced without the use of antibiotics, growth hormones, or dangerous pesticides, and the milk used comes from cows that eat only organically grown grass. This means that organic cheese is free from artificial coloring or flavorings, and enzyme rennet, which is often used to curdle the milk. As a result, organic cheese is not only delicious but also safe for vegetarians. However, organic cheese is often more expensive and may not be readily available in some areas. For those looking for alternatives to organic cheese, there are several options to consider. Nutritional yeast, for example, can be used to add a cheesy flavor to dishes, while tofu can be used as a vegan replacement for cheese, although it may not achieve the same melting consistency. Various brands also offer dairy-free cheese alternatives made from plant-based ingredients such as nuts, soy, and oats. These alternatives may be suitable for those with dietary restrictions or preferences, but it's important to note that they may not have the same taste and texture as traditional cheese.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Cheese alternatives | Tofu, nutritional yeast, nuts (cashews, almonds, pine nuts), legumes, coconut cream, seed cheese, soy |
| Organic cheese characteristics | No antibiotics, growth hormones, or dangerous pesticides used. Milk comes from cows that eat organically grown grasses |
| Organic cheese health benefits | Higher in antioxidants, vitamin E, beta-carotene, and omega-3s. Lower exposure to toxins and pesticides |
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What You'll Learn
Nutritional yeast
Some popular brands selling nutritional yeast include Micro Ingredients, LOOV, Anthony's Premium, Terrasoul Superfoods, and Frontier Co-op. These brands offer nutritional yeast in different quantities, ranging from 8 ounces to 2 pounds.
In addition to nutritional yeast, there are other dairy-free cheese substitutes available. Some are made from nuts, such as cashews, almonds, or pine nuts, while others are made from dairy-free milk or tofu. There are also some store-bought vegan cheeses available, which typically include ingredients like filtered water, tapioca, oils, pea protein, salt, inactive yeast, and vegetable glycerin.
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Tofu
While tofu is a popular option for those seeking dairy-free alternatives, it is important to note that it does not melt like traditional cheese. It also has a different consistency and taste, so it may not be the best substitute for all cheese-based dishes. However, with the right preparation and flavouring, tofu can be a delicious and nutritious alternative to organic cheese.
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Nuts
Cashews are also commonly used in vegan cheeses, including cashew chive spread, cashew cheese, and cashew ricotta. Cashews pair well with broccoli and Serious Sharp soup, adding depth of flavor and crunch.
Other nuts can be used as well, such as pine nuts, which can be used in herbed cream cheese spreads, and peanuts, which pair well with Vermont Sharp Cheddar.
Some people with nut allergies may prefer nut-free vegan cheese options, such as those offered by Chao and Aldi. These products can be helpful for people transitioning to a plant-based lifestyle or those with dairy allergies or lactose intolerance.
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Dairy-free milk
Soy Milk
Soy milk has been a popular choice for those avoiding dairy for a long time, and it remains a staple in vegan baking. It is a good source of protein and has a creamy texture, making it a versatile option for coffee, soups, baking, sauces, and puddings. However, some people choose to avoid soy due to health concerns, and it may not be suitable for those with soy allergies.
Almond Milk
Almond milk is another common dairy-free milk option. It is often chosen for its mild flavour and versatility. Almond milk can be used in smoothies, oatmeal, homemade ice cream, sauces, and even vegan cheese. It is also a good option for those who want a shelf-stable, organic product with a simple ingredient list. However, it is worth noting that almond milk may not be suitable for those with nut allergies.
Rice Milk
Rice milk is a great dairy-free alternative for those looking for a low-fat or skim milk option. It has a thin consistency, making it ideal for baked goods, smoothies, and oatmeal. However, it is important to note that rice milk tends to curdle in hot beverages, so it is best used in iced or cold drinks.
Coconut Milk
Coconut milk has gained popularity as a dairy-free milk option, and it is often used in vegan baking. It has a rich, creamy texture and a distinct coconut flavour. Coconut milk is commonly found in canned form, but there are also coconut milk beverages, which have a thinner, more drinkable texture and may include added water and flavourings.
Pea Milk
Pea milk has gained attention for its high protein content and creamy texture. It is a popular choice for coffee, soups, baking, sauces, and puddings. However, some people may find that the inclusion of oils or gums in pea milk products is off-putting.
Hemp Milk
Hemp milk has emerged as a popular alternative to soy milk, especially for those who are allergic to soy. It is a good option for vegan baking and can also be used in coffee, although some people may prefer other options for this purpose.
With so many dairy-free milk alternatives available, it is worth experimenting to find the ones that best suit your taste preferences and intended uses.
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Legumes
Soybean, for example, can be used to create a harder gel, resulting in a tougher cheese. The gel behaviour and emulsification abilities can be enhanced by using high-intensity ultrasound, as demonstrated by Wang et al. (2020) with chickpea protein isolate. Additionally, the application of bromelain improved the water absorption and oil-binding capacities of legume proteins, as observed by Xu et al. (2021) in pigeon pea, lentil, and chickpea protein isolates.
The addition of vegetable oils rich in omega-3, such as flaxseed, rapeseed, and soybean oils, can fortify legume-based cheese substitutes with long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids, providing various physiological benefits. Coagulants and food thickeners can also be incorporated to achieve the desired texture, with coagulation behaviour influenced by factors such as coagulant type, concentration, time of application, plant protein source, and cooking conditions.
Overall, legumes present a sustainable and cost-effective opportunity for the development of dairy-free cheese alternatives, although further formulation improvements are suggested to enhance their sensory qualities and overcome their limitations in the cheese-making process.
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Frequently asked questions
Some popular store-bought vegan cheese options include:
- Filtered water-based cheeses
- Oils, including canola and safflower oil
- Coconut oil
- Pea protein
- Inactive yeast
- Vegetable glycerin
- Citric acid
- Titanium dioxide
Some homemade vegan cheese options include:
- Baked almond feta
- Cashew chive spread
- Vegan cashew cheese
- Nut cheese log rolled in chives
- Chickpea cheese
- Vegan cottage cheese
Tofu is a popular non-dairy cheese alternative. Some recipes include:
- Tofu ricotta
- Raw vegan parmesan
- Sliced smoked tofu, which mimics mozzarella or provolone
Some non-dairy cheese options that are not vegan include:
- Soy-based cheeses, although many of these contain casein (milk protein)
- Seed cheese, which can be used as a spread
- Coconut cream cheese
Organic cheese can be expensive, and some stores, like Costco, offer limited options. Try looking for local cheeses at your local farmer's market, or buying in bulk from a local wholesaler.
