Cashew Cheese Spread

I remember the first time I stumbled upon cashew cheese, it was at a friend's vegan dinner party. I was skeptical, but one taste, and I was hooked. The creamy texture and rich flavor were unlike anything I had tried before. Now, it's a staple in my kitchen, and I'm excited to share how you can make it at home.

Cashew Cheese Spread Recipe Details:

• Preparation Time: 10 minutes

• Time to Soak Cashews in Water: At least 4 hours or overnight

• Total Cooking Time: 20 minutes

• Number of Servings: Makes approximately 2 cups, serving about 8–10 people as a spread

• Calories: Approximately 45–50 calories per tablespoon serving

Ingredients:

• 1 cup raw cashews (soaked in water for at least 4 hours or overnight) (about 130 g)

• 1/4 cup water (about 60 g)

• 2 tbsp lemon juice (freshly squeezed) (about 30 g)

• 2 tbsp nutritional yeast (about 15 g)

• 1 garlic clove, minced (about 5 g)

• 1/2 tsp salt (about 1 g)

• 1/2 tsp onion powder (about 1 g)

• 1/4 tsp smoked paprika (optional, for a smoky flavor) (about 0.5 g)

• 1 tbsp olive oil (about 13 g)

• Fresh herbs (optional, such as chives, parsley, or dill, finely chopped) (amount can vary based on preference)

Steps to Follow:

• Soak the cashews overnight to soften them. Drain and rinse them the next morning.

• In a high-speed blender or food processor, combine the soaked cashews, water, lemon juice, nutritional yeast, minced garlic, salt, onion powder, smoked paprika (if using), and olive oil.

• Blend until the mixture is smooth and creamy, stopping to scrape down the sides as needed. This may take a few minutes.

• Adjust the consistency. If the mixture is too thick, add a little more water, one tablespoon at a time, until the desired spreadable consistency is achieved.

• Incorporate fresh herbs like chives, parsley, or dill, if desired. If using fresh herbs, fold them into the cashew cheese mixture with a spoon or spatula until evenly distributed.

• Transfer the cashew cheese to a jar or airtight container.

• Store in the refrigerator for up to a week.

Enjoy as you wish😊

Use this versatile spread on crackers, as a dip for veggies, or as a flavorful addition to wraps and sandwiches.

Key Ingredients & Benefits:

• Cashews: Provide a creamy texture and are rich in healthy fats, including monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats, which are known to support heart health. Cashews also contain vitamins E and K, and essential minerals like magnesium and zinc, which are vital for brain and heart health. When blended, cashews transform into a velvety base that mimics the luxurious texture of cheese.

• Nutritional Yeast: Adds a cheesy flavour without any dairy, thanks to its savory, umami-rich taste. Nutritional yeast is packed with B vitamins, which support energy levels and brain function, making it a nutritious addition to our spread.

• Lemon Juice: Adding a touch of brightness, lemon juice offers a fresh, tangy flavor that balances the richness of the cashews. It’s high in vitamin C, an antioxidant that boosts the immune system and enhances the overall flavor profile of the spread.

• Garlic: Known for its distinctive aroma and flavor, garlic brings a subtle depth to the spread. It contains allicin, a compound celebrated for its anti-inflammatory and immune-boosting properties.

• Olive Oil: Used to add smoothness, olive oil is rich in healthy fats and antioxidants. It complements the cashews' creamy texture and supports overall health by contributing monounsaturated fats and vitamin E, promoting heart health and reducing inflammation.

Serving Suggestions:

• Spread on gluten-free crackers or bread.

• Use as a dip for fresh vegetables.

• Add to wraps or sandwiches.

• Dollop on top of salads or grain bowls.

Tips for Making Cashew Cheese Spread:

• Use Raw Cashews: Soak them thoroughly to enhance the creaminess of the cashews, making them easier to blend. It also helps in reducing phytic acid, which can block nutrient absorption. Tip: If you're short on time, a quick soak in hot water for an hour will also work, though the texture may be slightly less creamy.

• Balance the Flavors: Adjust the lemon juice and nutritional yeast to your taste for the right amount of tang and cheesiness.

• Control the Texture: Add water slowly to avoid making the spread too runny; aim for a consistency similar to cream cheese.

• Use Cold Water: To prevent a slimy texture, use cold water when blending and adjusting the consistency.

• Enhance with Herbs: Fresh herbs add flavor and nutrition, but dried herbs can be used if fresh are unavailable.

• Chill Before Serving: Allow the spread to chill in the refrigerator before serving to let the flavors meld and enhance the texture.

• Mix Well Before Serving: Stir the cashew cheese well if it has been sitting in the fridge to redistribute the flavors and ensure creaminess.

These alternatives and suggestions allow you to customize the cashew cheese spread to suit your dietary preferences, flavor profiles, and culinary creativity, making it a versatile addition to your kitchen repertoire. Enjoy experimenting!

Alternative Ingredients:

Nuts:

• Almonds: For a different nutty flavor, substitute cashews with blanched almonds. Soak them overnight for the best results.

• Macadamia Nuts: These can be used for a richer, buttery flavor, but they may require longer blending to achieve a smooth consistency.

Flavors:

• Apple Cider Vinegar: Swap out lemon juice with apple cider vinegar for a different tangy flavor. Use in similar proportions.

• Tahini: Add 1 tablespoon of tahini for a creamier texture and a slightly nutty, earthy flavor.

Spices:

• Cumin: Add a pinch of ground cumin for a warm, earthy flavor that complements the nutritional yeast.

• Turmeric: A small pinch can add a beautiful yellow color and a slight earthy taste while providing anti-inflammatory benefits.

Liquid:

• Coconut Milk: For a richer texture and a slight sweetness, replace some or all of the water with coconut milk. This works well if you prefer a creamier spread.

Herbs:

• Basil: For a Mediterranean twist, use fresh basil instead of dill or parsley.

• Rosemary: Fresh rosemary adds a unique, aromatic flavor that pairs well with crackers and breads.

Tips for Customization:

• Adjust Seasonings: Feel free to play with the amounts of salt, garlic, and spices to tailor the flavor to your liking.

• Texture Preferences: If you prefer a chunkier spread, blend the mixture for a shorter time, or pulse instead of blending continuously.

• Heat Lovers: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce if you like a bit of spice in your cheese spread.