Delicious Plant-Based Slice-able Cheese Recipe for a Healthier Lifestyle
- Kylee Melo, RD, RDN
- Nov 3
- 4 min read
Plant-based diets have soared in popularity over the past few years, and there are compelling reasons for this trend. These diets can improve heart health, assist with weight management, and lower the risk of chronic diseases. A standout feature of a plant-based lifestyle is the ability to whip up delicious substitutes for traditional dairy products. In this article, we will dive into a scrumptious recipe for plant-based sliceable cheese that is not only flavorful but also rich in essential nutrients.
The Benefits of a Plant-Based Diet
Switching to a plant-based diet can yield numerous health benefits. Studies indicate that people who consume a diet high in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, nuts, and seeds have significantly lower cholesterol levels—often by 10-20%—and improved blood pressure. They also experience a 30% lower risk of heart disease compared to those who consume mostly animal products.
Additionally, plant-based diets tend to be lower in calories and saturated fats, making them ideal for those aiming to maintain a healthy weight. These diets are abundant in fiber, which not only supports digestion but also helps keep you feeling full longer—important for weight management.
Beyond physical health, many choose plant-based diets due to ethical and environmental considerations. Reducing or eliminating animal products contributes to a more sustainable food system and can lower one’s carbon footprint significantly.
Ingredients for Plant-Based Slice-able Cheese
To make your own plant-based slice-able cheese, gather these ingredients:
1 cup raw cashews (soaked for at least 4 hours)
1/4 cup nutritional yeast
1/4 cup melted coconut oil
1/4 cup almond milk (or any plant-based milk)
2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon turmeric (for color)
1 tablespoon agar-agar powder (for firmness)
Optional Flavor Additions
Feel free to personalize your cheese with these optional ingredients:
Fresh herbs like basil or chives
Smoked paprika for a hint of smokiness
Jalapeños to add some spice
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Cashews
After soaking, drain and rinse the cashews. This step is essential for eliminating bitterness and ensures a smooth, creamy texture.
Step 2: Blend the Ingredients
In a high-speed blender, mix the soaked cashews, nutritional yeast, melted coconut oil, almond milk, apple cider vinegar, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and turmeric. Blend until the mixture is completely smooth.
Step 3: Prepare the Agar-Agar
In a small saucepan, add the agar-agar powder to 1 cup of water. Bring this mixture to a boil, stirring constantly until the agar-agar fully dissolves. This usually takes about 2-3 minutes.
Step 4: Combine and Cook
Once the agar-agar is ready, pour it into the cashew mixture in the blender. Blend again until everything is well incorporated.
Step 5: Set the Cheese
Transfer the mixture into a silicone mold or a lined loaf pan. Smooth the top with a spatula and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or until it firms up.
Step 6: Slice and Serve
When the cheese is set, take it out of the mold and slice it as desired. Enjoy it on crackers, in sandwiches, or as part of a cheese platter.
Tips for the Best Plant-Based Cheese
Soaking Cashews: The success of this recipe hinges on properly soaking the cashews. If you're short on time, soaking them in hot water for just one hour works well.
Experiment with Flavors: Play around with various herbs and spices to find your favorite flavor profile. Everyone's taste is different!
Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator where they will stay fresh for up to one week.
Nutritional Information
This plant-based sliceable cheese is not just tasty but nutritious too. Here’s a quick rundown of the health benefits offered by key ingredients:
Cashews: A fantastic source of healthy fats and protein, cashews also provide minerals like magnesium and zinc, crucial for heart health.
Nutritional Yeast: Packed with essential B vitamins—especially B12, which is often missing in plant diets—nutritional yeast adds a cheesy flavor without dairy.
Coconut Oil: This oil, while high in saturated fat, is rich in medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs) that can provide quick energy and may aid in weight management.
Agar-Agar: A low-calorie vegan gelatin option, agar-agar helps with digestion and adds firmness to your cheese.
How to Incorporate Plant-Based Cheese into Your Diet
Now that you've got an amazing recipe for plant-based cheese, here are a few ways to enjoy it:
Cheese Platters
Arrange a beautiful cheese platter with your homemade cheese, fresh fruits, nuts, and a variety of crackers. This setup is perfect for appetizers or healthy snacks at gatherings.
Sandwiches and Wraps
Use the cheese as a filling in sandwiches or wraps. Combine it with fresh veggies, hummus, or avocado for a balanced meal.
Salads
Add slices of plant-based cheese to your salads to enhance their flavor and creaminess. It complements leafy greens, tomatoes, and olives remarkably well.
Pasta Dishes
Melt the cheese over warm pasta for a comforting, creamy dish without any dairy.
Final Thoughts
Crafting your own delicious plant-based slice-able cheese is a rewarding culinary journey that can lead to a healthier lifestyle. With its delightful flavors and creamy texture, this cheese can quickly become a staple in your kitchen.
By embracing a plant-based diet, you can enjoy a wealth of health benefits while also helping create a more sustainable future. So why not give this recipe a shot? Both your taste buds and body will be grateful!
Have you tried making plant-based cheese?
Yes!
Not yet.
Now I will!
Delightful!
I'm so excited for this one. I'll have to find that agar stuff since I dont have any. Do they carry it in grocery stores or do I need to buy it somewhere else?