Vegan cheese sauce made easy (and pro-level delicious!)
What's the story
Creating a creamy, delicious vegan cheese sauce that stands up to its dairy counterpart doesn't have to be a culinary mystery.
This guide will teach you how to make the perfect vegan cheese sauce, whether you're a seasoned vegan cook or new to the world of plant-based goodness.
Say goodbye to bland vegan cheese with these expert tips!
Base selection
Choosing the right base
A good base is key to a delicious vegan cheese sauce. Cashews are a popular choice because of their creaminess when blended.
Simply soak a cup of cashews in water for a minimum of four hours or overnight to soften them up.
For people with nut allergies, boiled potatoes and carrots can be used as a substitute. They provide the desired creaminess without the nuts.
Flavor enhancement
Flavor is key
To replicate the intricate flavor profile of conventional cheese sauce, you can't skip nutritional yeast.
Adding 2-3 tablespoons of nutritional yeast not only provides that cheesy essence but also boosts your sauce with beneficial vitamins B12 and B6.
For that extra depth, add garlic powder, onion powder, and a pinch of turmeric for a vibrant color.
Feel free to adjust these seasonings to your preference.
Texture tuning
Achieving perfect consistency
The key to a delicious vegan cheese sauce lies in its consistency.
Start with half a cup of plant-based milk or water and blend it. You can always add more.
You want it to be smooth but thick, like melted cheese.
If it gets too thin, you can thicken it by adding more soaked cashews or boiled vegetables.
Application variety
Versatility in use
Vegan cheese sauce is not limited to macaroni and cheese—it's far too versatile to be confined to one dish.
Dip your veggies or chips in it, drizzle it over nachos, stir into risottos, or even spread it on sandwiches instead of sliced cheese.
Trying it in various ways will demonstrate how truly adaptable this sauce is in your kitchen.
Innovation Station
Continuous experimentation
Try adding smoked paprika or miso paste to your vegan cheese sauce for a twist.
These ingredients can take the flavor up a notch, adding a nice smoky touch or some umami depth.
Remember, becoming a kitchen whiz is all about experimenting.
So, keep playing around with your technique and flavors until you find what tickles your taste buds just right.