Recipe: Vegan mac and cheese that will tantalize your palate
Mac and cheese is a beloved comfort food with American roots. Traditionally dairy-laden, it has been transformed into a vegan delight. This new version retains the creamy texture and savory taste that have made it a favorite. With plant-based diets on the rise, vegan mac and cheese offers a delicious experience without any animal products. It's time to get cooking with this inclusive dish.
Gather the following ingredients
To prepare vegan mac and cheese, assemble one cup soaked raw cashews, two cups water, a quarter cup nutritional yeast, one tablespoon lemon juice, two teaspoons garlic powder, one teaspoon onion powder, one teaspoon mustard (Dijon or yellow), and salt and pepper to taste. Also required are eight ounces of pasta (gluten-free if preferred) and optional garnishes like breadcrumbs or paprika.
Prepare the pasta
Begin by cooking your pasta according to the package's instructions, aiming for a texture that is al dente, as it will continue to soften when combined with the sauce. Once the pasta is cooked, drain it while reserving roughly one cup of the pasta water. This starchy liquid will be essential later for adjusting the creaminess and consistency of your sauce to your liking.
Blend sauce ingredients
While your pasta cooks, blend together soaked cashews and water until smooth. Add nutritional yeast, lemon juice, garlic powder, onion powder, mustard, salt, and pepper to the blender. Blend again until everything is well combined into a creamy sauce. If you find the sauce too thick at this point, you can add more water to reach your desired consistency.
Combine pasta and sauce
Combine the blended sauce with the al dente pasta in a large pot. Place it over medium heat, stirring constantly to ensure the pasta is thoroughly coated and the mixture is heated evenly. If the consistency is too thick, slowly mix in some reserved pasta water to soften it to your liking, achieving the perfect creaminess for your vegan mac and cheese.
Final touches
After preparing your dish, taste the vegan mac and cheese, adding more salt or pepper as needed. For extra texture and flavor, consider a topping. Breadcrumbs toasted in olive oil offer a satisfying crunch, while a sprinkle of paprika can provide a subtle smokiness. Add these finishing touches to your mac and cheese before serving for an elevated culinary experience.
