Thankfully, we now live in a world where dairy is no longer the only route to creamy indulgence—yippee! With that said, we’ve collected a list of the top tasty vegan ricotta cheese brands. You’ll find many delectable, dairy-free alternatives that will certainly delight your palate. Plus, we’ll sweeten the deal with an enticing Vegan Ricotta cheese recipe that will totally knock your socks off.

If you’re ready to delve into all things creamy and cheesy, let’s get started!

What is Ricotta Cheese?

Ricotta cheese is a creamy, soft cheese of Italian origin made from the whey leftover during the production of other cheeses like mozzarella and provolone. It has a slightly grainy texture and a mild, slightly sweet flavor, making it a versatile ingredient in both savory and sweet dishes.

Some popular recipes made with ricotta cheese include:

• Lasagna (or Lasagna Soup)
• Stuffed Shells
• Ravioli
• Crostini
• Charcuterie Boards

While traditional ricotta is made from dairy, vegan alternatives have become increasingly popular, using plant-based ingredients to recreate its texture and taste.

Is Ricotta Cheese Vegan?

Traditional ricotta cheese is not vegan because it uses whey from cow’s milk (or possibly goat’s milk). Dairy-free ricotta cheese brands use tofu, almond milk, or cashews as a base.

The nubbly-bubbly texture is more difficult to create without the animal products, but the brands below have worked their magic and made us proud!

Best Vegan Ricotta Cheese Brands

Navigate the vegan ricotta cheese corner with our handpicked list of standout brands. They offer a variety of rich and creamy plant-based choices to enhance and flavor your favorite dishes. From a luscious lasagna dinner casserole to a light and crispy bruschetta appetizer, these cheeses have got you covered—delish!

Kite Hill

Plant-based ricotta cheese by Kite Hill is artfully crafted from almond milk and captures the flavor and texture of traditional Italian ricotta. It has a lovely, velvety texture and rich, nutty undertones, making it a versatile and delectable dairy-free choice. Also available in a whipped version.

New Roots

Dairy-free “La Cotta” from New Roots is a European-inspired ricotta cheese with a foundation of organic cashews. This brand boasts a light, creamy, artisanal texture, and a wonderful blend of flavors. Lactose-free and made in Switzerland.

Reine

Reine’s vegan almond ricotta offers a smooth and creamy dairy-free alternative, providing a mild and neutral flavor perfect for a wide range of savory and sweet dishes. This non-melting variety is perfect hot or cold and contains no coconut oil, gums, or starches.

Tofutti

Better than Ricotta from Tofutti is a versatile and soy-based option with a creamy consistency, making it a convenient addition to your plant-based recipes and a go-to choice for those seeking a mild, neutral flavor. Excellent for pasta, lasagna, cheesecake, pizza, cannoli, salads, bruschetta, and adding to flatbreads.

Treeline

Treeline’s delicious non-dairy cashew ricotta uses a foolproof formula of creamy cashews and live, active cultures. The beautifully balanced flavor has a subtle tanginess, delivering a versatile, dairy-free choice for all ricotta lovers. Their blend is also free of soy, gluten, and lactose.

Dairy-Free Ricotta Cheese FAQs

How To Make Vegan Ricotta Cheese

Although you can easily find vegan ricotta cheese recipes online, this tofu ricotta recipe from Allison Rivers Samson is our favorite! It’s a simple and delicious plant-based ricotta recipe for beginners, as well as a great choice for more experienced vegan cheese crafters.

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Vegan Ricotta Cheese Recipe

This recipe will free you from any fear you may have of tofu. Used as a blank canvas, tofu takes on the flavors of what it’s mixed with, and in this case, creates a robust, creamy, protein-rich cheese that can be added to any dish that calls for ricotta. Stuffed pasta shells, anyone?

Course Appetizer or Snack, Condiment, Dip, Spread

Keyword dairy-free ricotta recipe, tofu ricotta, vegan ricotta

Prep Time 5 minutes minutes

Total Time 5 minutes minutes

Servings 1.5 cups, about 8 servings

Author Allison Rivers Samson | The Dairy Freedom Cookbook

Equipment

• food processor

Ingredients

• 8 ounces extra firm tofu rinsed and squeezed to remove the water
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ cup fresh basil leaves sliced into ribbons or chiffonade
• ½ cup canned olives Allison’s favorite is Santa Barbara’s ripe green olives in a can
• 1½ teaspoons capers drained

Instructions

• In a food processor, purée tofu, olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, and salt. Process until desired smoothness is achieved.
• Add basil, olives, and capers. Pulse 2-3 times for a rough chop.

More Creamy and Delicious Vegan Cheeses

• For those that savory the “stinky” cheese, this Vegan Blue Cheese guide is your best bet!
• Bagel lovers will find a variety of wonderful creamy cheeses in the Vegan Cream Cheese collection.
• The perfect pizza needs just the right type of Vegan Mozzarella cheese, like these!
• There’s nothing bedda than chedda! Check out our Vegan Cheddar guide for all things cheesy.
• It’s hard to find just the right flavored feta, you might find this Vegan Feta round-up really helpful. Bonus, there’s a feta cheese recipe to try, too!

Vegan ricotta cheese recipe shared with permission from The Dairy Freedom Cookbook by Allison Rivers Samson and Michelle Cehn.

The post Vegan Ricotta Cheese (Best Brands + Tofu Ricotta Recipe) appeared first on World of Vegan.

While we’re big fans of aged, cultured gourmet cheeses made with probiotics, we also understand that sometimes you’re in a hurry, and waiting for cheese to mature isn’t an option. Sometimes, you just want cheese pronto! If the idea of waiting days for your cheese to age doesn’t tickle your fancy, then this recipe will become your new best friend.

This vegan cheese recipe is not only a breeze to make, but also ready in under an hour! This creamy, herb-infused delight is both versatile and a crowd-pleaser, perfect for your holiday gatherings.

For this homemade vegan cheese, all you need to do is blanch some almonds in boiling water and blend all the ingredients together until they form a silky-smooth mixture. Afterward, pop it into the oven for a quick 20-minute bake. Once it’s done, allow it to cool slightly, shape it into a log, coat it with your favorite fresh herbs, and let it chill until you’re ready to serve.

How to Serve This Vegan Cheese

This versatile vegan cheese has been a World of Vegan favorite for years, with a wide range of delectable serving options. For the holidays and for entertaining, you can make a fancy charcuterie board and serve it with crackers, fresh veggies, bread, olives, dips, grapes, vegan meats, and more. You can also add it to sandwiches and various dishes.

• On Crackers: Keep it simple and spread this on your favorite crackers.
• Cheese Board: For special occasions and entertaining, create an impressive cheese board. Pair the cheese log with an assortment of crackers, fresh veggies, bread, olives, dips, grapes, vegan meats, and more for a delightful spread that will impress your guests.
• Hummus Board: Dish up this cheese on a fun hummus board which is a great snack idea for kids and adults alike.
• Pasta: Add a generous dollop of this creamy vegan cheese to your favorite pasta dishes for a rich and flavorful twist.
• Salads: Drizzle it over salads as a delicious dressing alternative or mix it in for an extra layer of creaminess. Sandwiches: Elevate your sandwiches by spreading this delectable cheese log for a gourmet touch.
• Bagels or Avocado Toast: Spread it on your morning avocado toast or vegan bagels (instead of cream cheese) for a creamy and flavorful breakfast. It would be especially delicious topped with this carrot lox!
• Tofu Scramble: Surprise your taste buds by incorporating this vegan cheese log into your tofu scramble; the flavor infusion will leave you amazed.

This can be used as a substitute for soft cheese or goat cheese in any recipe where their creamy goodness is desired. Enjoy the versatility and deliciousness this cheese log brings to your meals and gatherings!

Key Vegan Cheese Ingredients

Explore the essential components that come together harmoniously to create this luscious vegan cheese. These ingredients combine their unique qualities to produce a creamy, flavorful, and plant-based alternative to traditional dairy cheese.

Raw Almonds: These nutrient-packed nuts provide the base for the creamy texture of your cheese log. They bring a very subtle nutty flavor and a creamy consistency when blanched and blended. If you don’t have a high-powered blender like a Vitamix, opt for slivered almonds instead of whole raw almonds for easier blending.

Lemon Juice: The zesty lemon juice adds a refreshing tang that mimics the brightness of traditional cheese, enhancing the overall flavor profile.

Nutritional Yeast: A pantry staple for vegans, nutritional yeast contributes a savory, cheesy flavor without dairy, enriching your cheese log with depth and umami.

Garlic Powder: For those who love an extra kick of flavor, garlic powder can be added to give your cheese log a subtle, aromatic hint of garlic. This ingredient is optional—the cheese is still delicious without it!

Salt: A touch of salt elevates the flavors, balancing the sweetness of almonds and enhancing the overall taste.

Fresh Chives: These vibrant herbs, such as fresh chives, infuse your cheese log with a burst of color and a burst of freshness. You can experiment with other herbs of your choice to customize the flavor to your liking.

These carefully selected ingredients work in harmony to create a creamy, flavorful vegan cheese log that’s both delicious and versatile. Enjoy the natural goodness of plant-based ingredients in this delightful recipe!

How to Make Vegan Cheese

Blanch Your Almonds

If you’re new to blanching almonds, it’s easy and only takes a minute! Here’s how to blanch almonds.

1. Add water to a small pot.
2. Bring the water to a boil.
3. Add the raw almonds and allow them to cook for just one minute.
4. Drain and rinse the blanched almonds with cold water so they’re not too hot to handle.
5. Remove the skins by hand, by simply squeezing each almond and sliding the skin off.

Blend Your Cheese Mixture

In a high-powered blender, combine the blanched almonds, water, lemon juice, nutritional yeast, garlic powder, and salt. Blend until you get a soft slurry-like consistency. It doesn’t have to be perfectly smooth.

Bake Your Cheese

First, line a loaf pan. If you don’t have a loaf pan, that’s ok! Any baking dish can work here, just lay the mixture down about one-inch thick in your parchment lined baking dish.

Once you’ve filled your loaf pan, it should look something like this!

Place the loaf pan in the oven (preheated to 350 degrees F) and bake for the first 10 minutes. Pull it out, mix well with a spoon, and place back in the oven for another 10 minutes. Remove, mix, and bake for the final 5 minutes. Remove it from the oven, mix one final time, and allow to cool for five minutes.

It should now be a thicker consistency and look like this.

Shape Your Cheese

Shaping your cheese is the fun part! You can follow the directions to shape this into a traditional cheese log, or get creative with your own shape.

1. Cool your cheese before handling after you take it out of the oven (and make sure you’ve mixed it well first).
2. Pull the edged of the parchment paper lining to gently lift the baked cheese out of the pan and onto a countertop. Using the parchment paper, pull one side over the other to fold the cheese into a log shape, and use your fingers to tuck the parchment around the log and pull it into an even log (this method is similar to shaping sushi with a sushi mat). Use your hands to pat the end of the log to flatten.
3. Peel back the parchment and if needed, finish shaping using your hands.

Coat Your Cheese Log With Herbs

The beauty of this cheese is that the flavor of the cheese meshes beautifully with any herb. We chose chives, but any finely chopped herbs can work here.

Finely chop your choice of herbs on a cutting board. Spread the herbs in a layer large enough to roll the cheese log. Roll the cheese log in the herbs, pressing them in as needed, and voila! You’re cheese is done!

Cover the cheese in tin foil and store it in the fridge until you’re ready to serve.

More Vegan Cheese Recipes

• Feta: Explore our Vegan Tofu Feta Guide for brands and an easy recipe for plant-based feta!
• Cheese Dip: Whip up a batch of these Soft Vegan Pretzels With Cheese Dip.
• Cream Cheese: Find the best dairy-free cream cheese options in our Vegan Cream Cheese Guide.
• Macaroni and Cheese: Discover store-bought mac brands or make your own Vegan Mac & Cheese!
• Vegan Cheese Guide: If you’re new to plant-based cheese, study this Guide to Vegan Cheese to familiarize yourself with all the kind cheese options available to you.

Vegan Cheese Cookbooks We Love

Hungry for more? Check out these two wonderful vegan cheese cookbooks by Miyoko Schinner (vegan cheese aficionado and founder of Miyoko’s Kitchen) and Julia Piatt. Those who love to get crafty in the kitchen rave about these cookbooks!

• Artisan Vegan Cheese: From Everyday to Gourmet by Miyoko Schinner
• This Cheese is Nuts! by Julie Piatt
• Super Easy Vegan Cheese Cookbook by Janice Buckingham
• Vegan Cheese by Jules Aaron

And if you can’t be bothered making your own cheese and want to explore what stores have to offer, check out our vegan cheese guide, gourmet cheese round-up, and the battle for the best vegan cheddar cheese. Needless to say, you don’t have to give up cheese to go vegan!

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Easy Vegan Cheese Log

This vegan cheese recipe is the easiest you'll ever make—and a perfect addition to any cheese board! It's made from blanched almonds, which only takes a minute, nutritional yeast, lemon juice, and spices, and then rolled in fresh herbs. That's it! You can form this cheese into a log, a cheese ball, or any other shape and impress your friends with this delicious, almond-based vegan cheese log full of herbs and flavor!

Course Appetizer

Cuisine French

Keyword vegan cheese, vegan cheese log, vegan cheese log recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes minutes

Cook Time 25 minutes minutes

Total Time 35 minutes minutes

Servings 8 people

Calories 105kcal

Author Kathy Chrzaszcz | World of Vegan

Equipment

• 1 Blender
• 1 Loaf Pan
• Parchment Paper

Ingredients

• 1 cup raw almonds or almond slivers
• ½ cup water
• 3 tablespoons lemon juice
• 3 tablespoons nutritional yeast
• ¼ teaspoon garlic powder optional
• ¼ teaspoon salt or to taste
• ¼ cup fresh chives (or other herbs) finely chopped

Instructions

• Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F. Line a loaf pan with parchment paper, pressing a single sheet of parchment into the bottom of the pan allowing the sids of the sheet to hug up against the side of the loaf pan. No need to be perfect here. Set aside.
• Blanch almonds: In a saucepan, bring water to a boil, add the almonds, and boil for 60 seconds. Drain the water and rinse almonds with cold water. Then squeeze each almond to remove the skin. Discard (compost) the skin.
• In a high-powered blender, add the blanched almonds, water, lemon juice, nutritional yeast, garlic powder, and salt, and blend. Continue blending, stopping to push the mixture down toward the blades as needed, until the mixture forms a soft slurry (it doesn't have to be perfectly smooth).
• Transfer the mixture to the parchment lined loaf pan and spread in an even layer. Place the pan on the center rack of your oven and bake for 25 minutes, pausing to stir the mixture well after 10 and 20 minutes. Ensure you mix all the way to the bottom to prevent the bottom layer from browning.
• After 25 minutes, remove the pan from the oven and transfer the parchment to your counter. Stir it well and allow it to cool for 5 minutes.
• Pull the parchment paper with the cheese out of the loaf pan and use the parchment paper and your hands to form a log shape. This should feel similar to rolling sushi with a sushi mat.
• Finely chop the chives or herbs on a cutting board and flatten into a layer of herbs big enough to roll your cheese log in. Place the cheese log onto the herbs and roll the cheese into the herbs to coat, using your hand to press in herbs as needed. Store the cheese in an airtight container until serving.

Nutrition

Calories: 105kcal | Carbohydrates: 5g | Protein: 5g | Fat: 8g | Saturated Fat: 1g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 2g | Monounsaturated Fat: 5g | Trans Fat: 0.003g | Sodium: 77mg | Potassium: 170mg | Fiber: 2g | Sugar: 1g | Vitamin A: 56IU | Vitamin C: 3mg | Calcium: 39mg | Iron: 1mg

The post Easy Vegan Cheese Log appeared first on World of Vegan.

Once you collect your ingredients, all you have to do is blend. How simple is that? You’ll easily impress your guests with the feisty flavor and still have enough left over to enjoy the next day. There is no limit on what you can transform with this terrific topping!

Baffled About the Buffalo?

Did you know that the term ‘buffalo’ (when it comes to the sauce) has nothing to do with the actual animal? Thank goodness! The term for this super spicy and tangy dressing originated in 1964 at the Anchor Bar in Buffalo, New York. The owners, Frank and Teressa Bellissimo, created this topping so they wouldn’t lose money over an accidental delivery at their restaurant.

The original buffalo sauce included only three ingredients: melted butter, hot sauce, and cayenne pepper. Crunchy celery and cool bleu cheese were added on the side to balance out the heat. A plant-based version can easily be made by using vegan butter instead of dairy butter.

Eric uses a combination of cashews, silken tofu, and oil to mimic the thick, buttery texture and richness of the authentic recipe. To take it to another level, he added soy milk, nutritional yeast, and smoked paprika to create this distinctive vegan buffalo queso. Daring and delicious!

Quick Queso From Cashews

We all know that cashews are the King of Nuts. Not only are they killer at making creams, cheeses, and nut butters, but quesos too! Is there anything they can’t do??

These curvy little nuts are full of healthy, plant-based fats, fiber, magnesium, iron, and protein. Because of their higher fat content and soft exterior, they’re ideal for blending into any sort of creamy concoction.

The best thing about cashews is that they have a very neutral flavor. This is also true of tofu. Creating a special sauce is a snap because you have total flavor control. You can add whatever spices you wish and it will wind up wonderful.

Key Ingredients

Cashews: Soaking cashews softens them, making them easier to blend into a creamy texture, which is essential for the queso’s smooth consistency.

Silken Tofu: Silken tofu adds creaminess and protein to the queso, helping achieve a rich and thick texture. Explore more silken tofu recipes to see how far this pantry staple can go.

Nutritional Yeast: These nutritious yellow flakes provide a cheesy and savory flavor that’s typical in vegan cheese recipes. And it’s a staple in any vegan pantry!

Frank’s Red Hot Sauce: The star ingredient for the buffalo flavor! It brings the perfect amount of heat and tanginess to the queso. You can also swap to your favorite hot sauce.

Smoked Paprika: This spice adds depth and smokiness to the queso, creating a well-rounded flavor.

Garlic: Fresh minced garlic adds a robust and aromatic flavor to the queso, enhancing its overall taste.

Salt + Pepper: Seasoning with salt and pepper enhances the overall flavor profile, balancing the spiciness of the hot sauce.

These key ingredients come together to create a delicious vegan buffalo queso that’s creamy, spicy, and packed with flavor. Enjoy it as a dip, drizzle it over nachos, or use it as a sauce for various dishes.

How to Serve Up This Vegan Queso Cheese Dip

Pour Over Pasta – Make your own fiery mac & cheese by pouring this Vegan Buffalo Queso over rotini, shells, elbows, or bow tie pasta. Garnish with a few slivers of jalapeño and you’re good to go! We love Pastabilities pasta shapes for this dish!

Toss on Tortilla Chips – Create your own nibble-worthy nachos by spreading this sauce over your chips of choice. Top with a little bit of beans, some salsa, and a small amount of avocado for a terrific, anytime snack. You can even make your own corn tortillas, cut into triangles, and then bake until crispy.

Pair It With Pizza – Who says you have to use shredded cheese for pizza? Perk up your pizza pie with this spicy queso, broccoli, veggie pepperoni, and even some artichoke hearts. Perfection!

Trickle Into Tacos -Tell your taco sauce to take a hike and fill with this flavorful sauce instead. Pile high with veggie ground, walnut, or quinoa “meat”, tomatoes, avocado and crispy, cool lettuce. Give our Meat Lover’s Beefy Vegan Taco recipe a try – it’s seriously tasty!

Storing Your Leftover Buffalo Queso

This recipe makes a large amount of queso––about 3.5 cups. If you are a huge fan of queso or planning to make this for a party, this is the perfect portion size. If this sauce is only for you, feel free to save whatever is leftover in the fridge.

The sauce will last up to 3 days, covered, in the refrigerator. To reheat, simply pour into a saucepan and heat over medium-low for 5 minutes or until the desired temperature. You could also heat the remaining vegan Buffalo Queso in the microwave in one-minute intervals, stirring the sauce in between.

Keep in mind that overheating the sauce might cause a grainy texture to form. Luckily, this doesn’t affect the flavor at all. It will still be super tasty.

More Delicious Dips and Buffalo Recipes to Try:

• Baba Ganoush Dip
• Buffalo Cauliflower Wings
• Artichoke Dip

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Vegan Buffalo Queso Cheese Dip

You can, and should, put this vegan buffalo queso on everything. It’s like Batman’s utility belt, but vegan. Eat it with nachos, veggies, or some macaroni pasta…it will taste like heaven all the same.

Course Sauce

Cuisine American

Keyword vegan buffalo queso, vegan queso, vegan queso recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes minutes

Cook Time 5 minutes minutes

Total Time 20 minutes minutes

Servings 4

Calories 422kcal

Author Eric Obenauf

Equipment

• 1 High Speed Blender

Ingredients

• 1 cup cashews soaked for at least 15 minutes
• 1 4-ounce block silken tofu
• Salt + pepper to taste
• ¾ cup hot sauce we used Frank’s Red Hot
• 1½ tablespoons smoked paprika
• 1 cup nutritional yeast
• ¾ cup soy milk
• ⅓ cup olive oil
• 1 head garlic minced
• green onions optional, for garnish

Instructions

• Soak the cashews in hot water for at least 15 minutes.
• Add ingredients to a high-speed blender and blend until completely smooth.
• Garnish with slides green onions, if desired.

Notes

Pairing suggestions: Toss buffalo queso with noodles for buffalo mac & cheeze. Or use buffalo queso on tacos and nachos, drizzle on pizzas, or just warm and use as a dip with chips.

Nutrition

Calories: 422kcal | Carbohydrates: 20g | Protein: 14g | Fat: 34g | Saturated Fat: 5g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 5g | Monounsaturated Fat: 21g | Sodium: 1219mg | Potassium: 649mg | Fiber: 5g | Sugar: 4g | Vitamin A: 1540IU | Vitamin C: 39mg | Calcium: 96mg | Iron: 4mg

We want to thank our amazing recipe testers J.J. Steele & Taylor Gillespie (@food.in.focus) for helping us perfect this recipe!

This recipe for Vegan Buffalo Queso was reprinted with permission from the Two Dollar Radio Guide to Vegan Cooking cookbook by Eric Obenauf, Jean-Claude van Randy, and Speed Dog (Two Dollar Radio, September 2020). Photo credit: Two Dollar Radio. Article written by Gina House and edited by Amanda Meth.

The post Vegan Buffalo Queso Cheese Dip appeared first on World of Vegan.

What Is A Vegan Charcuterie Board?

A vegan charcuterie board is a visually stunning and mouthwatering assortment of plant-based foods and snacks. While “charcuterie” typically brings to mind cured meats, a plant-based adaptation may seem contradictory. However, the vegan version delights without the use of animal-based products.

These boards typically feature an array of vegan cheeses, plant-based cold cuts or slices, and an assortment of fresh and dried fruits, vegetables, nuts, olives, pickles (or delicious pickled veggies), dips, and various crackers or bread.

The aim is to offer a diverse range of textures and flavors, creating a balanced and aesthetically pleasing spread that caters to both vegans and non-vegans. These grazing boards are not only delicious but also a creative way to showcase cruelty-free alternatives for those who choose a plant-based diet.

How To Make A Vegan Charcuterie Board

Creating your own stunning and balanced vegan charcuterie board is not only a super fun experience but also an opportunity to showcase your creativity while catering to a variety of tastes. A vegan grazing board can have as many or as few elements as you like. Follow these steps to create an elaborate or simple board for any occasion!

Gather Your Essentials

The first step in preparing your own vegan charcuterie board is to gather all the essentials you’ll need. Begin by selecting a suitable canvas for your masterpiece, such as a large wooden platter, a slate slab, or a marble board.

Next, take some time to research or create a list of your favorite vegan cheeses, plant-based cold cuts, fresh and dried fruits, vegetables, nuts, dips, pickled items, and crackers or bread. Keep in mind that a successful grazing board engages the senses, so aim for a diverse array of flavors, colors, and textures when planning your selections.

Mock-Meat Munchables

Add plant-based cold cuts to your board, creating attractive folds and rolls. Choose from options like vegan salami, deli slices, and plant-based pepperoni and ham. These choices provide a savory and protein-rich element to your board. Here are some brands that we love:

• Field Roast Vegan Deli Slices, Pepperoni, and Mini Sausages – Adorn your grazing board with a selection of Field Roast plant-based meats made from vegetables, grains, legumes, and fresh herbs & spices.
• Sweet Earth Plant-Based Deli Slices – With a selection of flavors like applewood smoked ham, Italian-style pepperoni, and oven-roasted deli turkey slices, you can build your board with an impressive selection of vegan meats!
• Tofurky Deli Slices – Offering a selection of oven-roasted, peppered, and hickory smoked deli slices, this is a great option that’s sold at most chain grocers.

Our vegan pepperoni guide has more options for store-bought brands, plus a recipe for homemade, plant-based pepperoni if you’d like to give that a try!

Vegan Cheese

When selecting vegan cheeses for your board, aim for a mix of hard and soft cheeses with different flavors. Serve the entire wheel, slices, or cubes for easy serving, and position them in groups around the board.

Some ideas for vegan cheese can include:

• Miyoko’s Creamery – Known as an essential selection for any vegan cheese plate, these wheels are perfect to serve straight from the package.
• Vtopian Artisan Cheeses – This Portland-based company produces blocks of artisan vegan cheese with flavors like peppercorn brie, caramelized onion camembert, and port cheddar.
• Vromage – This Los Angeles-based cheese shop produces wildly delicious vegan cheeses like goat-cranberry, camembert, fresh truffle brie, and pepperjack.
• Homemade vegan cheese log – Use almonds and fresh herbs to create this soft, spreadable cheese perfect for crackers!
• Boursin makes a plant-based cheese spread that’s perfect for slathering over crackers or bread slices.
• Babybel offers small vegan cheese wheels that would be adorable served halved or quartered on a platter!
• Follow Your Heart Bleu Cheese crumbles can be served in small bowls or scattered along a grazing board. Check out our vegan blue cheese guide for more stellar options! They also make a vegan feta. You can also explore more vegan feta cheese brands or make your own!

Need more cheese ideas? Check out our article on the best vegan cheese brands for more options and recipes.

Fruits (Dried and Fresh)

Add some fruity and nutty goodness to your arrangement! Scatter fresh grapes, apple slices, strawberries, blackberries, and peaches around your board. They add natural sweetness and a refreshing contrast to the savory elements. Enhance the color and texture by placing dried fruits such as apricots, figs, or cranberries in the gaps.

Consider adding jam or fruit spreads to your board for a festive touch.

Fresh Vegetables

For a pop of color, add cut vegetables to your board for freshness and crunch. Sliced carrots, cucumbers, radishes, bell peppers, snap peas, cherry tomatoes, broccoli, and celery are all great choices!

Dips and Spreads

Dips add some fun and curiosity to a grazing board. Some great options are homemade hummus, fresh pesto, vegan tzatziki, or even a spicy mustard. Place these in small bowls around your board for easy dipping.

Bread, Crackers, And Nuts

Adding an assortment of baguette slices, pita bread, pretzels, and crackers gives your guests something to scoop dips up with. It also adds some heartiness. For a gluten-free cracker option, try making our easy almond flour crackers.)

You may want to add small bowls of infused olive oil for dipping the bread into. You can find sweet, savory, and spicy infused oils for adding a unique choice and touch!

Add nuts like walnuts, pistachios, almonds, and macadamia nuts for a bit of crunch. Selecting candied or savory-flavored nuts offers even more choices for your guests.

Want more bread options? Check out our guide to vegan bread with delicious homemade recipes and store-bought options.

Pickles And Olives

Pickled components add a zesty and bright component to the board. It also offers a vibrant, acidic pop of flavor that works well with the other ingredients.

An assortment of olives, marinated mushrooms, cornichons, Japanese Pickled Cucumbers, tapenade, or pickled onions add great crunch, color, and tang.

Finish Your Vegan Charcuterie Board

Complete your masterpiece by filling any remaining gaps with leftover items you have. For a finishing touch, garnish your board with fresh herbs like rosemary, chives, or thyme, which look beautiful and add a festive flair.

You may want to consider serving vegan wine, cocktails, and non-alcoholic beverages with your beautiful charcuterie board!

Creating a welcoming and gorgeous vegan charcuterie board is all about embracing your own style and having fun. Experiment with colors, shapes, and flavors as you like… it’s your culinary canvas!

Don’t hesitate to play with different pairings; that’s where the magic happens. Once you create a beautiful, plant-based spread that everyone can dig into, you’ve mastered the art of creating your own plant-based charcuterie board!

Vegan Charcuterie Party: Recipes, Ideas And Inspiration!

The ideas for a vegan charcuterie party are endless. You can gather your favorite ingredients or choose a theme to build around. Here are a few inspirational ideas and vegan charcuterie recipes to get you started.

Epic Vegan Charcuterie Board

This epic vegan charcuterie board is perfect for big parties or the holidays! Consider adding seasonal ingredients when drafting your shopping list to celebrate the holidays in style. Dried cranberries, rosemary sprigs, pomegranate seeds, persimmons, and citrus are great choices to include.

More epic-themed board ideas can include Mediterranean, football, dessert, Asian fusion, tropical, Mexican, breakfast or brunch, French, rustic farmhouse, and Italian.

Hummus Board

Skip the expensive vegan cheese boards and go all out on hummus. Adding simple toppings to your hummus can turn plain hummus into three different flavor varieties! This is a very budget-friendly option if you’d love to try vegan charcuterie boards but are concerned about the cost.

Vegetable Charcuterie Board

This colorful vegetable charcuterie board has such a beautiful array of flavors and textures. Adding bowls of dip to the board adds an interesting visual statement and also gives your guests choices.

Vegan Cheese Grazing Board

There are so many amazing plant-based cheeses available in stores and online. Grabbing a few wheels and pairing them with fresh fruit offers your guests a stunning and delicious display.

How To Arrange A Charcuterie Board

Arranging a charcuterie board is easy once you’ve gathered your ingredients. Placing bowls in various locations around your board and then filling the space in between with them is a great strategy!

Veggie Charcuterie Board

The key to a great veggie charcuterie board is all about choices. The more diverse flavors, textures, and colors it offers, the more likely your guests will be going back in for that extra bite.

Fresh Fruit Grazing Board

Fresh produce is key to creating a beautiful grazing board. Choose from every color of the rainbow, and don’t be afraid to add in some green veggies to pump up the vibrancy. Add some vegan honey for some extra sweetness!

Kid-Friendly Charcuterie Board

Charcuterie boards are great for kids too because they have perfect-sized components that are easy for little fingers to pick up!

Top Tips For Making A Beautiful Charcuterie Board

Now that you have guidance, tips, and inspiration for arranging a vegan grazing board, here are some additional tips to help you along the way:

• Arrange your items with intention. Start by placing larger items like vegan cheese wheels or blocks as anchor points, then fill in the gaps with smaller items, ensuring a balanced distribution of colors and textures.
• Use complementary colors. Consider the color palette of your board. Incorporate colorful ingredients like red bell peppers, purple cabbage, or vibrant berries to make the board visually appealing.
• Play with shapes and sizes. Vary the shapes and sizes of your items for visual interest. You can cut vegan cheeses into different shapes, such as wedges or cubes, and arrange them alongside circular crackers or sliced baguettes.
• Invest in quality serve ware. A beautiful wooden or marble platter can elevate the overall presentation of your vegan charcuterie board. Alternatively, consider using a slate board for a rustic touch. You may also consider choosing eco-friendly serveware, napkins, and utensils!
• Add edible flowers. Edible flowers like nasturtiums, pansies, or violets can bring a pop of color and elegance to your board. Ensure they are safe to eat and pesticide-free.
• Include artistic touches. Don’t be afraid to get creative! Consider incorporating vegan chocolate truffles, decorative fruit carvings, or personalized touches to make your board uniquely yours.

Ordering A Vegan Charcuterie Box Online

The holidays can be a busy time. Purchasing a vegan charcuterie box online may be a convenient choice for you. Here are some choices to consider if you’d like to take that route!

Harry and David

Harry and David have created a deluxe vegan charcuterie and cheese assortment with a wide array of plant-based meat, vegan cheeses, fruit pastes, and crackers!

Platterful

Platterful offers a Plant-Based Perfection Charcuterie Kit complete with lots of plant-based products including cheese, fig salami, vegan jerky, crackers, and more.

Nibel

This gorgeous plant-based grazing box from Nibel offers a gorgeous display of fresh fruit, vegan cheese, olives, nuts, and plant-based salami.

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Vegan Charcuterie Board

Make your own stunning vegan charcuterie board with a hand-picked selection of plant-based meat, artisan vegan cheese, fruit, vegetables, nuts, dips, and bread. Plan your next charcuterie party with this handy guide!

Course Appetizer or Snack

Cuisine American, French

Keyword charcuterie party, how to arrange a charcuterie board, how to make a vegan charcuterie board, vegan charcuterie recipe, vegan cheese board, vegan grazing board, vegetable charcuterie board

Prep Time 1 hour hour

Total Time 1 hour hour

Servings 6 -12

Ingredients

Plant-Based Meats (Choose At Least 2)

• Plant-based pepperoni
• Plant-based deli meats
• Plant-based ham slices
• Plant-based salami
• Plant-based mini sausages

Plant-Based Cheeses (Choose At Least 2)

• Plant-based cheese wheels
• Plant-based cheese blocks
• Plant-based cheese spread
• Plant-based cheese slices
• Plant-based cheese crumbles (like feta or bleu)

Dried And Fresh Fruits (Choose 2-3)

• Grapes
• Apple slices
• Berries
• Persimmons
• Pears
• Citrus fruits
• Dried fruits like figs, apricots and cranberries

Fresh Vegetables (Choose 2-3)

• Cherry tomatoes
• Celery
• Carrots (baby or sliced)
• Radishes (halved or quartered)
• Snap peas
• Broccoli

Dips And Spreads (Choose At Least 2)

• Hummus
• Fresh vegan pesto
• Baba ganoush
• Vegan French onion dip

Bread, Crackers, And Nuts (Choose At Least 3)

• Pita bread
• Baguette slices
• Crackers
• Pretzels
• Candied and savory nuts

Pickles and Olives (Choose At Least 2)

• Pickled onion or mushrooms
• Cornishons
• Olive assortment
• Tapenade

Garnishes

• Fresh herbs like parsley, rosemary, chives, and thyme

Instructions

• Gather your ingredients by choosing from each section above.
• Select a large wooden or marble board large enough to accomodate your ingredients.
• Start to assemble your board using bowls scattered around to anchor your arrangement. Fill the bowls with dips and pickled ingredients.
• Start to assemble your board using the largest ingredients first. This may be your crackers or baguette slices. Fan them around the bowls.
• Next, start to fill it in even more with your medium-sized ingredients. Follow up with your smaller ingredients until the spaces are filled.
• Garnish with fresh herbs or edible flowers.
• Assemble your board just before guests arrive.
• Store any leftovers in seperate containers and refrigerate as needed.

Notes

• Feel free to buy or make your own plant-based cheeses, vegan meats, dips, and pickled items.
• For the freshest taste, select from produce items that are in season.
• This is a suggested guide. Feel free to use this as a framework, but let your own creativity be your guide!
• Include chilled and room-temperature items to add even more diversity on your platter.
• Opt for eco-friendly serveware like bamboo or reusable platters to reduce waste and enhance sustainability
• Select vegan wine or beverage pairings that complement the flavors on your board, enhancing the overall dining experience.

The post How To Make A Vegan Charcuterie Board (The Ultimate Guide) appeared first on World of Vegan.

In recent years, the vegan food industry has witnessed an explosion of innovation, and vegan cheese has emerged as a shining star. Gone are the days of limited choices and rubbery slices that refuse to melt. Today, vegan cheese slices not only capture the essence of their dairy counterparts but often surpass them in taste, meltiness, and versatility.

Join us as we explore the brands and options available in stores today, whether you’re looking to craft the perfect dairy-free grilled cheese sandwich, elevate your pizza game, or simply enjoy a guilt-free snack. So, grab your favorite crackers and let’s embark on a cheesy adventure that will change the way you think about dairy-free cheese forever!

Best Vegan Cheese Slices

Cheese-Lovers (aka turophiles), get ready to fall head over heels for even more dairy-free cheese possibilities! Whether you’re in the mood for a simple snack of crackers and cheese or extra oomph on your afternoon sandwiches, vegan cheese slices are on your side. All you need to do is crack open a package and peel off some plant-based goodness.

You might be wondering, “Where can I get my hands on some vegan provolone cheese slices?” Or, “Are there different flavors and ingredients to explore?” Let us introduce you to the creme-de-la-creme of vegan cheese slice brands.

Field Roast

One of our favorite cheese brands! Vegan Chao cheese slices are a delicious choice, featuring a creamy texture and a subtle, smoky flavor. Field Roast’s savory slices are excellent for topping burgers, melted in sandwiches, or simply enjoyed on their own as a flavorful and dairy-free snack with crispy crackers, veggies, or fruit. Choose from four terrific types including: Creamy Original, Tomato Cayenne, Smoked Original, and Spicy Original.

Violife

Our most reached-for brand! Violife’s 100% vegan cheese slices offer a delightful dairy-free alternative with an ultra-smooth and creamy consistency. These slices are perfect for adding a cheesy touch to sandwiches, melting over pizzas, or crafting plant-based burgers that satisfy your cheesy cravings. Choose from American, Smoked Gouda, Cheddar, Smoked Provolone, and Mature Cheddar flavors.

Daiya

This pioneer brand of cheese-style slices are a popular choice for those seeking a dairy-free, melt-worthy cheese alternative. Daiya’s slices have a rich and tangy cheddar flavor, these slices are perfect for melting over burgers, upgrading vegan nachos, or adding a cheesy kick to your favorite recipes. They may be the only brand that offers a Swiss-style cheese, along with American, Provolone, Cheddar, and Smoked Gouda flavors.

Follow Your Heart

FYH’s coconut and potato starch cheese slices offer a delectable and creamy dairy-free alternative. Their slices are perfect for creating delicious sandwiches, grilled cheese, or topping your favorite meat-free burgers with melt-in-your-mouth cheesy goodness. Follow Your Heart goes above and beyond with six fabulous flavors such as Smoked Gouda, American, Provolone, Pepper Jack, Medium Cheddar, and Mozzarella.

Esti

These tasty vegan cheddar slices offer a delectable dairy-free option with a smooth and creamy texture that’s perfect for melting. They’re free of GMOs, gluten, preservatives, and artificial flavors. Esti’s cheese slices boast a robust cheesiness, making them a delightful choice for pizzas, quesadillas, sandwiches, burgers, or adding lots of cheesy goodness to your favorite dishes. Take your pick from Cheddar, Mozzarella, Smoked Gouda, Pepper Jack, Truffle Mozzarella, and American.

Kraft NotCo

Kraft’s Notco plant-based cheese slices provide a tasty and dairy-free option with a creamy texture and authentic cheese flavor. A scrumptious option for adding to savory sandwiches, veggie burgers, or salty snacks. Also, a familiar option for those who prefer dairy-free cheese or want to explore plant-based alternatives. Flavors include: American, Cheddar, and Provolone.

Parmela Creamery

Parmela’s delicious, cashew milk cheese slices provide a creamy and flavorful dairy-free alternative. These plant-based slices are perfect for enhancing homemade sandwiches, topping tasty burgers, or making gourmet grilled cheese sandwiches. This company offers a variety of types including: Mild Cheddar, Sharp Cheddar, Creamy American, and Fiery Jack.

Simple Truth

This Kroger brand of dairy-free cheese slices provides a delicious plant-based option known for their creamy texture and rich flavor. These slices are perfect for enhancing your sandwiches, burgers, and snacks with a satisfying cheese experience that’s free from dairy.

365 Whole Foods Market

This store brand’s vegan cheddar cheese slices are a delectable dairy-free option with a rich and creamy texture that mimics traditional cheddar. With high-quality ingredients, these slices offer a bold, cheesy flavor, making them a versatile addition to plant-based pizzas, crackers, stacking on sandwiches, or eating along with nuts and fruit. They offer two choices—Cheddar and Smoked Gouda.

Can I Find Vegan Cheese Slices at Walmart?

You sure can! The dairy-free sliced cheese brands most widely available at Walmart include Daiya, Field Roast, Follow Your Heart, and Good Planet.

To sum things up, vegan cheese slices have now revolutionized the culinary world, offering a luscious, guilt-free alternative to traditional dairy cheese. With an ever-expanding variety of flavors and textures, this plant-based delight is a must-try for both vegans and curious cheese enthusiasts. Finally, go ahead and add a slice of joy to your next meal – your taste buds, the animals, and the planet will thank you!

More Vegan Cheese Guides to Check Out

• For those with strongly-scented cheese preferences, check out our Vegan Blue Cheese and Vegan Parmesan Cheese Guides!
• If mild is your go-to for cheese slices, you’ll love this round-up of the best Vegan Mozzarella and Vegan Cottage Cheese brands. These cheeses work well with lasagnas, salads, and snacks.
• Creamy spreads are delicious on crackers, bagels, and bread. Make sure to dive into this guide on Vegan Cream Cheese and a super spreadable Homemade Vegan Cheese Log.
• All dairy-free Feta and Cheddah lovers will find everything they need to choose the most appealing cheeses in these Vegan Feta and Vegan Cheddar guides. Excellent for pairing with salads, soups, and sandwiches!

The post Vegan Cheese Slices appeared first on World of Vegan.

From pizzas that sing with plant-based perfection to caprese salads that dance with cool creaminess, this dairy-free cheese delight is taking the culinary world by storm. Let us introduce you to the smoooth, stretchy, and oh-so-mouthwatering world of mozzarella cheese without the moo.

If you’re eager to start living the vegan cheese dream, keep reading!

What is Mozzarella Cheese?

Dairy mozzarella contains lactose and dairy proteins taken from cow’s milk. Vegan mozzarella is made from plants instead of dairy. It melts and stretches just like dairy mozzarella but uses ingredients like cashews, coconut oil, and/or vegetable starches as a base. The plant-based version has no cholesterol and does not rely on harming animals to produce. A definite plus!

Best Vegan Mozzarella Cheese Brands

When it comes to vegan cheese, there are some real stars on the plant-based scene. In this section, we’re spilling the beans on the coolest delicious dairy-free options on the market. These brands have the most melt-in-your-mouth appeal that really rivals traditional cheese.

Violife Vegan Mozzarella Shreds

The King of the Cheese brands! Not only does Violife have at least 14 different vegan cheese options, but they also have dairy-free cream cheese, dips, and spreads. You can choose between blocks, shreds, shaves, or slices to fit any favorite recipe. Violife mozzarella cheese is one of our favorites and melts beautifully!

Miyoko’s Liquid Mozzarella and Vegan Mozzarella Balls

A delicious and dependable brand that sells both pourable and fresh block (smoked and classic) cashew mozzarella. Miyoko’s blends creamy cashew milk and coconut oil with tapioca starch into the most luscious cheese with a truly traditional taste. We love the new pourable consistency that’s perfect for pizza and classic casseroles.

Daiya’s Popular Mozzarella Shreds

This award-winning and allergen-friendly cheese brand has a new Cutting Board Cheese Collection, which includes mozzarella-style shreds. Daiya was the first brand to make vegan cheese mainstream, and has had great success with making super melty cheeses that are awesome in sandwiches and on pizza.

Follow Your Heart

A popular vegan cheese brand that offers fine shreds and slices and also blocks of plant-based mozzarella as well. Since 1970, FYH has been easy to find in most grocery stores and makes dairy-free cheese enjoyable to both vegans and non-vegans alike. Follow Your Heart mozzarella is non-GMO, soy-free, gluten-free, Kosher, and a good source of calcium. An excellent choice for any dairy-free cheese lover!

GOOD PLANeT Mozzarella

Good Planet Foods has a fast-growing selection of plant-based cheeses that are dairy-free, soy-free, gluten-free, kosher, and all vegan! Their Mozzarella-style plant-based cheese shreds are perfect on pizza, polenta pizza bites, meatball subs, bagel bites, and these fun kids pizza rolls.

Nurishh

A newer plant-based cheese brand that has many exciting options for adding to pizzas, potatoes, appetizers, and other tasty meals. Nurishh offers both slices and shreds for their mozzarella cheese, but also cubes of cheddar and hot pepper and cream cheese, as well. Their cheeses are lactose and dairy-free, as well as a good source of calcium and vitamin B12.

Earthgrown

Aldi has gone out of their way to make a plant-based diet accessible to more people. It seems like every week they are coming up with new and exciting vegan foods, including dairy-free mozzarella cheese. Their shredded, dairy-free mozzarella alternative is a solid cheese choice for any recipe. Way to go, Aldi!

Vitalite‘s Vegan Mozz

This plant-based brand offers both slices and shreds in its cheesy line-up. Vitalite’s products are gluten-free, soy-free, and Kosher with a coconut oil and potato starch base. If you’re searching for more vegan cheese, they also offer cheddar, cream cheese, and parmesan products as well. Temptingly tasty!

Trader Joe’s Vegan Mozzarella Shreds

As plant-based food continues to rise in popularity, it’s no surprise to see Trader Joe’s jumping on the bandwagon! They have long been one of the most vegan-friendly grocery stores, and they now carry their own brand label of meltable vegan mozzarella shreds made from cashews.

365 Whole Foods

If you’re a fan of the Whole Foods Market store brand, you’re going to be tickled that they also offer plant-based, mozzarella-style shreds and sticks. You can usually find them in the regular dairy section of any store. The main ingredients are coconut oil and two types of starches—potato and tapioca. The 365 brand melts wonderfully and offers a much more reasonable price than other brands.

Good & Gather (Target Brand)

If you’re a Target fan, you have probably glimpsed their plant-based mozz-style shreds in the grocery aisle. With a base of coconut oil and potato starch, the Target store brand is pretty much on par with even the more expensive brands. This dairy-free mozzarella is kosher, gluten-free, non-GMO, and excellent for vegan nachos, tacos, pizza, and chili. Great for a late night grab when you’re out shopping anyway.

Kids Vegan Mozzarella Cheese Sticks

Vegan cheese sticks have steadily carved a niche for itself in the ever-expanding world of plant-based food options. What once was an exclusively dairy product, beloved by generations and fondly remembered as a nostalgic staple of many childhood lunchboxes, string cheese has been reimagined to cater to the growing vegan community.

Conscious parents are now able to provide a similar lunchbox-friendly experience for their children without compromising on their ethical or dietary choices. Pioneering brands like Miyoko’s and Daiya have stepped up to the challenge, crafting vegan string cheese alternatives that capture the essence and taste of the original. They don’t string, unfortunately, but they are a fun kids snack.

As the vegan movement gains momentum, it’s heartening to see familiar favorites evolve to accommodate changing consumer preferences, ensuring that everyone, regardless of their diet, can relive or create new cherished memories with such iconic snacks.

Dayia Mozzarella Cheese Sticks

Miyoko’s Dairy-Free Cheddar Sticks

FAQs About Vegan Mozz

Dairy-free mozzarella cheese isn’t just a tasty alternative; it’s proof that vegan cheese can be fun and fabulous. Say goodbye to the old cheese stereotypes and hello to a world of plant-based cheesy delights that won’t leave cows feeling blue. It’s time to dive into a dairy-free, cruelty-free, and utterly cheesy world that awaits you—it’s time to get your vegan mozza groove on!

More Delightful Dairy-Free Recipes to Try

• Boost up the flavor of a simple salad with chunks of creamy vegan blue cheese or never-fail vegan feta.
• When searching for an elegant, party-pleasing cheese, you’ll find the best savory suggestions in this Gourmet Vegan Cheese guide. Or, better yet, make your own plant-based cheese log and serve with homemade flaxseed crackers.
• The best homemade lasagna depends not only on the delicious vegan mozzarella, but also the addition of vegan ricotta cheese.
• Bite into the best bagels in the world by topping them with luscious vegan cream cheese!
• Pair fresh fruit with protein-packed vegan cottage cheese for a satisfying snack or quick, on-the-go breakfast.

The post Vegan Mozzarella Cheese (Ultimate Guide) appeared first on World of Vegan.

Slathered with veggie chili and gooey melted plant-based cheese, suddenly that simple meal has transformed into these epic vegan chili cheese dogs—the stuff of childhood dreams. Equal parts indulgent and uncomplicated, you can’t beat that foolproof formula for a timeless comfort food staple.

Don’t save this classic bite of Americana just for summer barbecues. In fact, you don’t need to drag out the grill at all! Make the greatest chili cheese dogs whenever, wherever, with entirely plant-based ingredients!

You can cook them up over a campfire for a divine camping meal, or in your toaster oven or microwave for a quick-fix meal at home. Use canned or homemade chili and your favorite vegan cheese! Even skeptics will be won over by this irresistible entrée.

Why These Are The Best Vegan Chili Dogs Ever

• High in plant-based protein: Anything meat can do, plants can do better! Nutrition varies depending on the brand but expect each meatless frank to have anywhere from 10 – 20 grams of protein each.
• Serve one or one hundred: Scale the recipe up or down to accommodate any number of eaters, even if they arrive with a hearty appetite.
• Four essential ingredients: You can go all-out with toppings, but there are only four core ingredients you need to bring this recipe together.
• Ready in minutes: By using ready-to-eat staples, you have a quick fix meal that you just need to heat and eat.
• Perfect for cooking newbies: Not confident in the kitchen? Have limited experience with fancy equipment? Trying to get the kids involved? This is an ideal place to start since it doesn’t require any knife skills, measuring, or even using a stove. There’s no shame in microwaving!

Key Ingredients

Vegan Hot Dogs: Meatless hot dogs are widely available in most mainstream supermarkets these days. You’ll find a wider selection at natural foods stores, such as Whole Foods or Sprouts, and don’t forget to check the freezer aisle as well as the fresh section, too. You can also try a more highly seasoned meatless sausage if you’d like to change things up.

Hot Dog Buns: White, whole wheat, pretzel, or gluten-free; top-sliced or side-sliced; it’s all fun on a bun! On rare occasion, you might find dairy, eggs, or honey in store-bought options, so always double check labels.

Vegan Chili: Make your own from scratch or crack open a can to get the spice right. While you have a huge number of choices from mild to extra-hot, err on the side of caution when serving a diverse audience. You can always spike yours with sriracha or jalapeño peppers to pump up the volume.

Vegan Cheese: Sharp cheddar-style shreds offer just the right amount of savory, gooey goodness here. We used Violife‘s Just Like Cheddar Shreds because it melts beautifully and tastes great in this dish. But you can use any vegan shredded cheese you can find near you!

What’s The Best Way To Cook Chili Cheese Dogs?

If you’re in a hurry, the microwave can’t be beat. It’s great for anyone cooking with since it’s fast, safe, and works in an instant. Solo diners might enjoy using the air fryer or toaster oven a bit more, since it allows the bun to get lightly toasted instead of slightly chewy.

For a crowd though, it’s easier to assemble all eight dogs in a large casserole dish that you can just slide into the oven at once. In short, there’s no wrong answer; the best way to cook chili cheese dogs is the one that you prefer, so don’t be afraid to experiment!

Chili Cheese Dog Topping Ideas

The fun in making chili cheese dogs is dressing them up with wild and wonderful toppings. Add a lot or a little, switching it up to keep every meal exciting. Everyone can get exactly what they want from the same basic meal this way. Just a few topping ideas include:

• Mustard or ketchup
• Diced red or yellow onions
• Sliced chives or scallions
• Sliced jalapeño or sriracha
• Shredded lettuce
• Crushed corn chips
• Diced avocado
• Pickle relish
• Vegan sour cream

What To Serve With Chili Cheese Dogs

Chili cheese dogs could be a complete meal in and of themselves. If you’d like to round out the meal with some additional sides, there are lots of complementary accompaniments. Here are a few favorites:

• Leafy green salad
• Classic vegan potato salad
• Potato wedges, sweet potato fries, polenta fries, or zucchini fries
• Air fryer corn ribs (or corn on the cob)
• Pasta salad
• Jalapeno corn muffins
• Watermelon cucumber salad
• Air fryer broccoli

How To Make Chili Cheese Dogs From Scratch

Sometimes, you just want a semi-homemade solution to speed through meal prep. Other times, it’s fun to turn dinner into a project and craft every single element from scratch. If you’d like to take a DIY approach, here’s where to start.

Homemade Vegan Hot Dog Recipes

• Vegan Carrot Hot Dogs may be the butt of many jokes, but don’t knock them until you’ve tried them! Humble orange tubers are transformed with a marinade of liquid smoke and liquid aminos. Almost like magic, you’ll craft a shockingly meaty alternative that’s truly plant-forward.
• Seitan Dogs use wheat gluten and white beans to create a chewy, meaty bite. These are not for anyone with Celiac disease, of course, but perfect for anyone seeking extra protein in their diet.

Homemade Vegan Chili Recipes

• Easy Does It Sunday Evening Chili comes from Ashely Melilo’s new book, Blissful Basil. It gets its name from the short, simple prep that lets you sit back, relax, and occasionally give it a stir.
• Meatless Texas-Style Chili has no beans about it! This is a 100% plant-based chili that would make a true Texan proud.
• Quick Black Bean and Sweet Potato Chili is based on whole foods, which makes an invigorating yet comforting and hearty stew for all seasons.

Homemade Vegan Cheese Recipes

• Cheese Dip is intended to go with pretzels, but you can very happily drizzle it all over your chili dogs instead as an instant cheese sauce.
• Grateable Vegan Cheese shreds, melts, and tastes just like the real thing! You’ll need more time to make it in advance, but it’s worth the extra effort.
• Vegan Beer Cheese is a fun, grownup twist on a simple cheese sauce. If you already have shredded vegan cheddar and want to make them more exciting, here’s a way to dress up the basics.

More Quick Fix Vegan Party Recipes That Start With Pantry Staples

• Vegan Bagel Bites
• Best Vegan Hot Dogs
• The BEST Vegan Hamburger Helper
• Vegan Mummy Meatballs & Dogs

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Vegan Chili Dogs

These vegan chili dogs are the perfect summer food — and you don't even need a grill to make them! They come together quickly (in as little as 5 minutes depending on the cooking method). They're great for parties, barbecues, family dinners, or just a quick lunchtime meal. 

Course dinner

Cuisine American

Keyword vegan barbecue recipe, vegan bbq recipe, vegan hot dogs, vegan party food, vegan summer dish

Prep Time 5 minutes minutes

Cook Time 5 minutes minutes

Total Time 10 minutes minutes

Servings 8 chili dogs

Calories 243kcal

Author Michelle Cehn | World of Vegan

Ingredients

• 8 vegan hot dogs
• 8 hotdog buns
• Mustard to taste
• 1 can vegan chili or use homemade
• Vegan cheddar cheese shreds any brand
• Diced purple onion
• Sliced chives green onion or cilantro will work too
• Sliced jalapeños

Instructions

• Cook hotdogs according to package instructions.
• Make a slit down the center of each bun and press down with your fingers to create a boat for the dogs.
• Add a slathering of mustard, if desired, and place a dog in each bun.
• Top with chili and vegan cheese, and heat in the microwave, toaster oven, oven, or air fryer until the cheese is melted.
• Top with diced onion, chives, and jalapeños (or your favorite toppings), and enjoy!

Video

https://www.instagram.com/p/CfZMb6nvsEn/

Nutrition

Calories: 243kcal | Carbohydrates: 31g | Protein: 15g | Fat: 6g | Saturated Fat: 1g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 2g | Monounsaturated Fat: 2g | Sodium: 609mg | Potassium: 285mg | Fiber: 4g | Sugar: 4g | Vitamin A: 12IU | Vitamin C: 4mg | Calcium: 157mg | Iron: 3mg

These vegan chili dogs were photographed by Purely Kaylie. Written with support from Hannah Kaminsky. Recipe and photos copyright of World of Vegan, all rights reserved.

The post Vegan Chili Dogs appeared first on World of Vegan.

Vegan parmesan has become an essential topping ingredient for pizza, appetizers, bread, and more for very good reasons. Is there anything as quick and satisfying for dinner as a simple pasta dish with a sprinkle of savory and umami-rich vegan parmesan? Just a touch adds so much flavor and pizzaz!

Whether you decide to make it yourself or purchase it, there are many great alternatives to dairy-based parmesan for multiple culinary applications. Read on for a roundup of brands you already may know and love, plus some lesser-known brands that may become your new favorites!

Vegan Parmesan Brands

Most mainstream grocery stores carry at least one brand of dairy-free parmesan. Keep an eye out for these solid brand choices that create their own version of vegan parm:

• Country Life
• Follow Your Heart
• Go Veggie
• Gopal’s
• Panacheeza
• Parma!
• Pimp My Salad
• Uprise Foods
• Vegaliano
• Violife
• 365 Whole Foods Market

Country Life Vegan Parmesan

Made with a blend of cashew flour, nutritional yeast, and spices, this vegan parm is great for sprinkling over any dish that loves a little cheesy kick. Plus, it’s organic and non-GMO!

Follow Your Heart Dairy-Free Parmesan

We love FYH cheeses! This shredded cheese alternative is not only dairy-free, but also soy-, gluten-, and casein-free. Try this on salads for an extra dash of saltiness and texture, or use it to top off soups or bread on a chilly day.

Go Veggie Plant-Based Parmesan

Made from non-GMO ingredients, Go Veggie brand plant-based parm is a good source of calcium and vitamin A, and is lower in fat than other brands. This powdery-textured grated topping is just like that stuff we used to sprinkle from a similarly-looking container in our pre-vegan days!

Gopal’s Rawmesan Parmesan Cheese Alternative

Made with organic seeds and nuts, this healthy plant-based parmesan is raw, sprouted, and gluten-free. In addition to the original flavor, there is also a herb and spice variety. Sprinkle over anything for a rich kick of flavor, like popcorn, tofu scrambles, and more.

Panacheeza

One of the newest brands to hit the scene, Panacheeza is made from simply recognizable healthy ingredients, but somehow tastes wildly similar to dairy parmesan. This is definitely and brand worth trying!

Parma! Vegan Parmesan

This parmesan topping is made with wholesome ingredients like nutritional yeast, walnuts, salt, and sunflower, hemp, and pumpkin seeds. Besides being a healthy choice, Parma! also offers a variety of flavors. Choose from chipotle cayenne, better than bacon, original, basil garlic, and more.

Pimp My Salad Plant-Based Parm Cheez

This Australian-based plant-based parmesan offers two wholesome bases: cashews and hemp. Chocked with vitamins, minerals, and omega-3s, this tasty topping is great not only as a parmesan alternative but also adds some bling to most savory dishes!

Uprise Foods Nooch It! Cashew Grated Cheeze

Made with fair-trade cashews, this vegan parmesan is also gluten-free and non-GMO. Nutritional yeast, garlic, powder, hemp seeds, and brown rice powder are used to make this super cheesy topping. Use in on potatoes, veggies, risotto, and warm bread for an extra boost of flavor and nutrition!

Vegaliano Vegan Parmesan Aged Classic Gondino

This plant-based block of cheese is touted as “the first authentic Italian vegan parmesan” and is made with a blend of chickpea flour and coconut oil. This gluten- and nut-free hard cheese wheel is perfect for grating and using in Italian dishes like pasta, pizza, risotto, and bread.

Violife Just Like Parmesan

We love grabbing our cheesegraters and grating this parmesan alternative over pasta dishes and salads. We’re also guilty of eating a small hunk of this dairy-based delight when prepping a meal. Made with a blend of potato and rice starches and coconut oil, this vegan cheese is also perfect enough for using on vegan cheeseboards!

365 Whole Foods Market Vegan Parmesan Shreds

If you love the convenience of shredded vegan parmesan, this umami-rich version from Whole Foods is a great choice. These sturdy shreds add a nice texture to pasta, pizza, salads, and risotto. Made with a blend of potato starch and coconut oil, this parm alternative mimics the taste and texture of dairy-based parm very well!

Nutritional Yeast Sprinkle as Parmesan

Ok, we know nutritional yeast (or “nooch”) isn’t technically parmsean, but we’re putting it on the list for good reason. It’s a great source of plant-based protein and vitamin B12, and a great choice for those looking for a health-conscious version of vegan parm. Sprinkle this on popcorn, tofu scrambles, roasted veggies, and more.

Vegan Foods & Recipes Using Vegan Parmesan

As you can see, plant-based parmesan can be used in many dishes and can even be used for crackers and vegan cheeseboards. For more ways to use this excellent vegan alternative, check out some of our dips and pasta dishes that use it!

• For your next get-together, game day, or potluck, this Vegan Artichoke Dip recipe is a great way to use plant-based parm! It’s perfectly rich and cheesy.
• This Plant-Based Carbonara recipe calls for four tablespoons of vegan parm, but an extra sprinkle at the end adds a nice boost of richness and texture.
• Making this Super-Easy Vegetable Pasta is perfect for weeknight dinners. Adding a cashew-based topping or vegan shreds adds the perfect touch when serving!
• Homemade Italian Pasta Sauce is key to enjoying a cozy pasta meal. Adding vegan parm right before serving adds a savory contrast to the bright and acidic flavors.

Homemade Vegan Parmesan Recipe

While many plant-based parmesan brands use a blend of flours and oils to create cheese, others use a blend of seeds and nuts to create a different, but equally satisfying result.

By using a blend of cashews, flaxseeds, and spices, we can create our own vegan parmesan in about five minutes! This recipe can show you how easy it is to create your own homemade parmesan using ingredients you may already have inside your pantry.

Key Ingredients

Raw cashews: These are plump, creamy-textured nuts harvested from the base of cashew apples. With their mild buttery taste, they lend a rich creaminess to this recipe that mimics cheese.

Nutritional yeast: This flavorful, flaky seasoning is prized for its umami-rich profile. It adds a savory depth and cheesy flavor that is essential for vegan parmesan.

Salt: Adding a bit of salt helps add brightness to the buttery and rich tones of the cashews, flaxseed, and nutritional yeast.

Garlic powder: Made from finely ground dehydrated garlic cloves, this seasoning infuses this vegan parm with a complex, savory note.

Smoked paprika: This spice is derived from dried red peppers that have been smoked and ground. Its distinctive smoky and slightly sweet flavor lends a nice complexity to this vegan cheese topping.

Onion powder: This finely powdered seasoning is made from dehydrated onions. Its concentrated onion flavor and aroma adds a brightness to this recipe.

Golden flaxseed meal: This finely ground, golden-hued ingredient derived from flaxseeds is optional to include, but it’s a great source of Omega-3s and and you can’t even taste it when added to this parmesan recipe.

This recipe couldn’t be any easier! Once you’ve gathered all of your ingredients, add them to a food processor.

Pulse about 10 times to create a crumbly texture.

Store the vegan parmesan in an airtight container at room temperature. Keep it handy so you can sprinkle over popcorn, bread, tofu scrambles, pasta, bread, soups, and veggies! If you loved this plant-based spice recipe, you must give this Homemade Chipotle Seasoning a try.

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Vegan Parmesan

This simple, quick, delicious vegan parmesan recipe is a staple in any plant-based home! It's cheesy, umami-rich, healthy, and absolutely perfect sprinkled over pasta, soups, salad, potatoes, veggies, and more.

Course Condiment

Cuisine American, Italian

Keyword cashews, flaxseed, vegan parmesan recipe

Prep Time 5 minutes minutes

Total Time 5 minutes minutes

Servings 5 -6 servings (about 1½ cups)

Calories 243kcal

Author Michelle Cehn | World of Vegan

Ingredients

• 1 cup raw cashews
• ¼ cup golden flaxseed meal or grind golden roasted flaxseeds in coffee grinder — or if you don’t have ground flax, you can use more cashews instead
• ¼ cup nutritional yeast
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
• ⅛ teaspoon smoked paprika
• ⅛ teaspoon onion powder

Instructions

• In a food processor, add the cashews, golden flax meal, nutritional yeast, salt, garlic powder, smoked paprika, and onion powder. Process and pulse around 10 times until you have a crumbly consistency that’s mostly powdery with some little chunks.
• Place in a sealed container or parmesan shaker and store on the counter at room temperature.

Nutrition

Calories: 243kcal | Carbohydrates: 14g | Protein: 9g | Fat: 18g | Saturated Fat: 3g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 5g | Monounsaturated Fat: 8g | Sodium: 588mg | Potassium: 354mg | Fiber: 5g | Sugar: 2g | Vitamin A: 31IU | Vitamin C: 0.2mg | Calcium: 38mg | Iron: 3mg

The post Vegan Parmesan {Best Dairy-Free Parmesan Brands & Recipe} appeared first on World of Vegan.

This super simple recipe from the Epic Vegan Quick & Easy cookbook can be made in no time. All you need is an oven, pre-made potato tots, and a few tasty toppings. If you have extra time and a few added ingredients, you can create a couple of savory sauces to slather over the surface. Our mouths are watering just thinking about it.

Firstly, find those frozen tots in the freezer, preheat your oven, and let’s follow those directions. Three cheers for cheesy burger bites!

How to Serve Up Your Vegan Tater Tot Casserole

These terrific tots taste top notch without any other sides, but you may want to stretch this delicious dish into a supper-sized meal. Too much of a good thing can sometimes cause tummy troubles, so it might be best to balance things out with a bit of healthy, plant-based fare.

• Lettuce Make Wraps – Consider using your toasty tots as a filling in a butter lettuce leaf––almost like an inside-out vegan cheeseburger. Pop some tots in the middle, add your selected sauce, and munch away. Mmmm…
• Always Add Veggies – When you’ve got a calorie-dense meal on your hands, it’s nice to throw in a whole lot of raw or steamed veggies into the mix. How about a fresh garden salad or a couple of ears of corn-on-the-cob? Perfect combo! Here are more vegan vegetable recipes to explore.
• Serve Along With Soup – Another way to add fiber and fullness to your plate of potato puffs is to supplement with a big bowl of vegan soup packed with lots of vegetables.

What’s in Old Bay Seasoning?

Actually, it’s a bit of a mystery! We know for sure that it contains celery salt, salt, red pepper, black pepper and paprika, but they also list “spices” as one of the main ingredients. Although some food lovers have suggested dry mustard, ground mace (or nutmeg), cinnamon, cardamon, allspice, cloves, and ginger as being part of the magical mixture, we may never know. Even Sherlock Holmes might be mystified by the illusive ingredients!

Note: It’s not a certainty, but it’s suspected that Old Bay contains MSG. In other words, if you are sensitive to this sinister seasoning additive, consider making your own. This recipe got rave reviews.

Simple Storage

Vegan cheesy burger tater tots are best eaten right out of the oven. After a half hour, they lose their lovely crisp texture. If you have extra tots that you haven’t tasted, store them in a covered container in the fridge for a few days. To reheat, simply place the leftovers on a parchment lined baking sheet and bake at 425 degrees until desired temperature and texture.

Better yet, if you have an air fryer, let them cook for 5 minutes at 400 degrees or until they’re as crispy as you like them. To freeze the remaining tots (I bet you won’t have many––or any!), place them in a sealed, freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Similarly, keep in mind that the vegan cheese might not reheat as well as the tots or vegan burger.

So Much (Awesome) Sauce

Want to take your Cheesy Burger Taters Tots to a whole new level? Pssst..the secret is in the sauce! Here are two simple, saucy recipes for a Thousand Island Dressing and Punk Cheddah Sauce to smother onto your tots and add a bit of sass.

This Thousand Island Dressing will bring back memories of trips to McDonald’s as you transform your tots into a bold, vegan Big Mac style dish!

In a bowl combine:

• ½!– /wp:list-item –>
• 2 tablespoons (30 g) of sweet pickle relish
• 1 tablespoon (15 g) of yellow mustard
• 1 tablespoon (15 g) of ketchup

Drizzle the dressing over your team of tater tots instead of mustard or ketchup. Keep refrigerated for up to 2 weeks in an airtight container.

More Vegan Cheese, Please!

Next up is a smooth, velvety Punk Cheddah Sauce. If you prefer homemade to store-bought vegan cheese, then this recipe is for you! This silky sauce is very mild and very simple to make because it uses canned pumpkin for the base.

For Punk Cheddah Sauce, you’ll need:

• 1½ cups (218 g) of pumpkin puree
• ½ cup (68 g) of raw cashews, soaked overnight or boiled in water for 10 minutes, drained and rinsed
• ¼ cup (20 g) of nutritional yeast
• 2 tablespoons (32 g) of white miso
• 3 cups (705 ml) of water
• 1 tablespoon (15 g) of Dijon mustard
• 1 tablespoon (15 ml) of soy sauce or gluten-free tamari
• Juice of ½ lemon
• 1 tablespoon (20 g) of maple syrup
• 1½ teaspoons of sea salt
• 1½ teaspoons of onion powder
• 1½ teaspoons garlic powder

To make the Punk Cheddah Sauce: Add the pumpkin, cashews, nutritional yeast, miso, water, Dijon mustard, soy sauce, maple syrup, lemon juice, salt, onion powder, and garlic powder to a blender. Blend for 1 to 2 minutes, until smooth and creamy. To store, place in a covered, sealed container. It should last for a few days in the fridge.

About the Author

Dustin Harder is the creator of the vegan travel culinary series The Vegan Roadie. In addition, he works as a culinary instructor and is the head of culinary development at the Atlanta-based restaurant, Arden’s Garden.

His recipes have been featured in popular foodie magazines such as Eating Well, VegNews, Vegan Lifestyle Magazine, Chowhound, Vegetarian Times and Paste Magazine. Moreover, Dustin has appeared on Food Networks Girl Scout Baking Championship sharing his amazing vegan baking skills using girl scout cookies in February 2020.

Dustin is the author of three cookbooks, Epic Vegan Quick & Easy, Epic Vegan, and The Simply Vegan Cookbook. The Simply Vegan Cookbook has recently been added to Forbes’ list of “Best Vegan Cookbooks.”  

More Amazing Appetizers to Try:

• Matzah Tater Tots
• Vegan Buffalo Queso
• Barbecue Seitan Wings
• Colorful Hummus Crostini

Equipment You’ll Need

• Measuring Cups
• Measuring Spoons
• Baking Sheet
• Parchment Paper
• Spatula

If you try this vegan Cheesy Vegan Tater Tot Casserole recipe, let us know what you think by leaving a comment and rating below! Be sure to follow along on Pinterest, Instagram and Facebook for even more vegan recipe inspiration.

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Vegan Tater Tot Casserole

Whether you're throwing a party or want to indulge in the ultimate comfort food creation, this vegan tater tot casserole loaded with plant-based meat, veggies, herbs, and cheese sauce is sure to be a hit! The combination of crispy tots with flavor packed add-ins will leave your guests going back for seconds and thirds.

Course Side

Cuisine American

Keyword tater tot casserole, tater tot recipe, vegan casserole recipe, vegan tater tot recipe

Prep Time 20 minutes minutes

Cook Time 30 minutes minutes

Total Time 50 minutes minutes

Servings 4

Calories 447kcal

Author Dustin Harder

Ingredients

• 4 cups frozen tater tots (half of a 32-ounce (905-gram) bag)
• ½ teaspoon Old Bay Seasoning optional
• 1 cup frozen vegan ground beef or crumbled vegan sausage (110 grams)
• ½ cup roughly chopped white onion (80 grams)
• ½ cup diced tomato (90 grams)
• ¼ cup sweet pickle relish (60 grams)
• ¾ cup vegan cheddar shreds or Punk Cheddah sauce (88 grams)
• Mustard
• Ketchup
• Quick Thousand Island dressing optional, see recipe below
• 2 scallions chopped (optional)

Instructions

• Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C, or gas mark 7).
• Line a sheet pan with parchment paper.
• Spread the tater tots out on the prepared sheet pan and sprinkle with Old Bay Seasoning (if using).
• Bake for 20 minutes, remove from the oven, and flip the tater tots with a spatula.
• Position the tater tots close together so they are touching to minimize the toppings falling through to the sheet pan.
• Top the tater tots with ground beef, onion, tomatoes, relish, and cheese.
• Bake for 10 to 12 minutes, until the cheese is melted and the tater tots have turned golden brown.
• Drizzle tater tots with mustard, ketchup, or dressing, and sprinkle with chopped scallions (if using).

Nutrition

Calories: 447kcal | Carbohydrates: 56g | Protein: 13g | Fat: 20g | Saturated Fat: 4g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 5g | Monounsaturated Fat: 6g | Sodium: 1253mg | Potassium: 637mg | Fiber: 8g | Sugar: 7g | Vitamin A: 303IU | Vitamin C: 17mg | Calcium: 135mg | Iron: 3mg

We want to thank our amazing recipe testers Annie Sparks & Tracey Ferren for helping us perfect this recipe!

This vegan Vegan Tater Tot casserole recipe was reprinted with permission from the Epic Vegan Quick & Easy: Simple One-Pot and One-Pan Plant-Based Recipes cookbook by Dustin Harder (Quarto Publishing Group, Co, 2021) Photography by Ashley Maddem @riseshinecook. Article written by Gina House and edited by Amanda Meth.

The post Cheesy Vegan Tater Tot Casserole appeared first on World of Vegan.

Vegan Cheddar Cheese Brands

From vegan cheddar cheese shreds to slices, these brands have vegan cheddar on (b)lock!

Daiya

Daiya, the pioneer of plant-based deliciousness, is here to satisfy your cheesy cravings! Their vegan cheddar cheese varieties are the perfect answer to traditional cheddar, minus the moo. Daiya’s cheddar comes in slices, shreds, blocks, and even cheeze sticks! Don’t skip their cheddar-style Cheeze Sauce perfect for pasta!

Follow Your Heart

From slices to shreds, Follow Your Heart has nailed the art of mimicking traditional cheddar flavors without dairy. Created with a base of coconut oil and potato starch, this cheese melts and stretches just like the real deal.

GOOD PLANeT

GOOD PLANeT’s cheddar cheese shreds redefine meltiness and taste, making them a go-to for pizzas and comfort dishes. You’re going to want to try all of their vegan cheddar offerings, including their Smoked Cheddar Wheel, Cheddar Shreds, Cheddar Slices, and Cheddar Snack Packs.

Miyoko’s

This awarding winning brand is all about artisanal excellence, minus the cows. Their vegan cheddar cheese wheels and blocks are a testament to craftsmanship, combining organic cashews and cultures to create rich, flavorful options.

Moocho

Moocho knows that the best cheesy flavor doesn’t come from cows—it comes from plants! Aged just like dairy cheese, their vegan cheddar cheese shreds deliver a burst of bold flavor, perfect for topping off your favorite dishes.

Parmela Creamery

Parmela Creamery is here to elevate the tradition of cheese, sans the animals. Their plant-based sharp cheddar slices and shreds are aged to perfection, crafted from cultured cashews and a hint of nutritional yeast. The result? Stretchy, melty goodness with the perfect cheesy flavor!

Simply Organic

Simply Organic lives up to its name, delivering simply delightful plant-based options. Their vegan cheddar sauce is the perfect blend of creamy flavor. Simply mix with your favorite vegan butter and pour over nachos, pasta, or even add it to broccoli cheddar soup!

So Delicious

So Delicious vegan cheddar shreds are perfect for melting on nachos or stirring into pasta. Or stuff a grilled cheese with their cheddar-style slices for some melty goodness!

Violife

Unveil the wonders of vegan cheese with Violife. Their vegan cheddar cheese products, from slices to shreds, redefine cheesy satisfaction, using coconut oil and starches for the perfect texture. Melting, stretching, and simply delicious!

Vegan Cheddar Cheese Recipes

Get busy in the kitchen with these simple and satisfying recipes for vegan cheddar!

Vegan Cheddar Broccoli Soup

A souper creamy and comforting recipe from Sweet Simple Vegan that comes together in just a little over 30 minutes! The soup gets a sharp vegan cheese flavor from ingredients such as soaked cashews, nutritional yeast, onion, and garlic. Serve alongside some toasted bread and enjoy!

Easy Vegan Cheese Ball

It’s not a party without a vegan cheese ball to cut into! This recipe from Courtney’s Homestead features a combination of cashews, almonds, coconut oil, white miso, and spices, resulting in a rich and flavorful vegan cheese.

Vegan Cheddar Cheese Spread

Made with just five simple ingredients, this smoky vegan cheddar recipe from Veggie Inspired couldn’t be easier to make. Slather it on a vegan BLT sandwich, top it on a veggie burger, or just enjoy with your favorite veggies or crackers!

Vegan Cheddar Cheese Sauce

Perfect for pouring over your favorite pasta, pierogis, or potatoes, this velvety vegan cheese sauce from watch. learn. eat. is nut-free, gluten-free, and super easy to whip up! Keep it for up to five days in the fridge and enjoy frequently.

Vegan Cheddar Cheese Taste Test

In the name of great scientific experimentation, we decided to put four of the most popular brands head-to-head in a vegan cheese taste test! The three judges were: an omnivore, a brand-new vegan, and a longtime vegan. Our hope was that this would give a balanced perspective and help us find a clear winner—and it did! The winner, with a unanimous vote, was…well, you’ll just have to read on and watch to see!

With so many vegan cheese brands out there these days, it can sometimes be tricky to know what exactly is out there! What’s the very best dairy-free cheddar cheese on the market today? Four of the most widely available vegan cheese brands come head-to-head in this episode of: Battle of the Cheeses!

The Vegan Cheddar Cheese Competitors:

• Parmela Creamery
• Follow Your Heart
• So Delicious
• Daiya

This list is not comprehensive—there are many other vegan cheddar cheeses out there (such as Go Veggie’s vegan cheddar) but we chose the four vegan cheddar cheese options that are both the most accessible and the most popular. It’s also worth noting that Daiya recently released a new formula for their vegan cheese shreds which they’re slowly rolling out in grocery stores and food service. It’s completely different from their original formula, so stay tuned for that. I tried it on vegan pizza at Disneyland and loved it!

The Winners

• 1st Place: Follow Your Heart’s Vegan Gourmet
• 2nd Place: Parmela Aged Nut Cheese
• 3rd Place: So Delicious Dairy-Free Cheddar Cheese
• 4th Place: Daiya Dairy-Free Cheddar Shreds

It should be noted that we only tried these cheeses in a quesadilla, and it’s quite possible that the ranking would change when using the cheeses in different dishes. We also taste-tested the cheeses cold (unmelted) and confirmed our suspicions—they really are meant to be melted. Of the four, Parmela performed the best unmelted—in fact, I just sprinkled it on tacos the other night and it was delish!

The Judges

• Michelle Cehn (Longtime Vegan)
• Greg Hicks (New Vegan)
• Dan Safko (Omnivore)

Many thanks to our guest judges: Greg Hicks (my biological father who I met for the first time this year and who has been vegan for 2+ months now!) and Dan Safko (omnivore, public speaker and entrepreneur). We hope that this helps you out next time you’re at the grocery store shopping for vegan cheddar cheese!

P.S. Have you seen our Ultimate Guide to Vegan Cheese? Check it out to see some of the most popular options for each type of vegan cheese (for melting, spreading, sprinkling, sandwiches, serving on a platter, and beyond).

More Vegan Food Guides

• Vegan Cream Cheese Guide
• Plant-Based Pasta Recipes
• Vegan Tofu Recipes
• Plant-Based Potato Recipes
• Vegan Blue Cheese Guide
• Vegan Soup Recipes
• Pig-Free Bacon Recipes
• Vegan Air Fryer Recipes

This vegan cheddar cheese guide was written by Michelle Cehn and edited by Amanda Meth. Although we love the brands mentioned above, this is not a sponsored article.

The post Best Vegan Cheddar Cheese Brands & Recipes appeared first on World of Vegan.

Whether you are looking for something to serve on a fruit and cheese platter, need an ingredient for your classic lasagna, or want a tasty sprinkle for Taco Tuesday, this vegan cheese guide has options for everything. You need these plant-powered cheeses in your life!

Why Eat Vegan Cheese?

We have a confession to make—we love cheese. Unfortunately, traditional dairy-based cheeses cause a lot of unnecessary suffering for dairy cows and goats, and they can cause a lot of health complications in humans, too. That’s why we decided to ditch dairy-based cheeses for the often misunderstood but oh-so-yummy world of vegan cheeses.

If you’re anything like we were, you’re probably confused about just what vegan cheese is, where you can find it, how you can make it yourself, and if it’s as nasty as some people make it out to be (spoiler: nope). So we put together this guide for people like you who are considering adopting a vegan diet and lifestyle, even part-time.

What Is Vegan Cheese?

Simply put, vegan cheese is any cheese that isn’t sourced from a lactating animal’s milk, such as from a mother cow or momma goat.

Unlike lactose-free milk, which is still sourced from a cow but with lactose (a kind of sugar) removed, vegan cheese can be made from nuts, seeds, vegetables, or other plant-based sources. However, vegan cheese will never be derived from an animal or their milk.

How Does Vegan Cheese Taste?

While vegan cheese has sort of a bad rap as being bland and bad at melting, we can assure you that for the most part, it’s anything but.

Vegans and vegetarians around the world have veganized pretty much every cheese you can imagine, from savory cheddars to sharp parmesans, salty fetas to decadent bries and camemberts.

If you’re more of a DIY foodie or just someone who loves experimenting in the kitchen, then you’ll be excited to learn that you can whip up all kinds of vegan cheeses from scratch in your own kitchen. We recommend trying this vegan cheese recipe and picking up a copy of a vegan cheesemaking cookbook (there are actually several of these!). You can also check out our vegan cheese board on Pinterest for inspiration.

Best Vegan Cheese Brands

If you’re looking for a pre-made vegan cheese that:

• Melts beautifully
• Spreads nicely on your cracker
• Accents a cheese plate
• That’s good for sprinkling
• That’s good for preparing Italian dishes
• Just looks and acts like the dairy-based cheeses you’re used to

…then friend, have we got some delicious dairy-free cheeses to tell you about!

Today you can find vegan mozzarella, dairy-free cheddar, vegan parmesan, plant-based cream cheese, gourmet vegan cheeses, vegan blue cheese, dairy-free cheese shreds, plant-based cheese slices, vegan cheese blocks, dairy-free cottage cheese, vegan feta, vegan nacho cheese sauce, vegan mac ‘n’ cheese, and beyond. Look out for the following vegan cheese brands in stores!

These are the most popular and most widely available, but there are many, many, many more coming to life both regionally and internationally!

Miyoko’s

This brand has truly mastered the art of crafting scrumptious vegan cheese that will satisfy your taste buds. From velvety plant-based cream cheeses to mouthwatering artisanal wheels, Miyoko’s offers an array of delicious options. Embrace the creamy goodness of their cashew-based creations, perfect for everything from melting atop your favorite pasta to elevating your charcuterie board to a whole new level of deliciousness!

Vevan

Say “hello” to Vevan, where innovation meets flavor in the vegan cheese world. Offering a range of plant-powered cheeses that taste so incredible, you’ll be wondering how they do it! With their potato starch and coconut oil-based products, Vevan delivers the creamy texture and tangy notes you crave. Whether you’re topping off a vegan burger with their vegan cheese slices or sprinklin their vegan cheese shreds over pizza, Vevan’s diverse selection will have you coming back for more.

Violife

If you’re looking for a dairy-free cheese experience that’ll leave you saying “Wow!,” then Violife is your go-to brand. This company has mastered the art of crafting sliceable and shreddable vegan cheeses that rival their dairy counterparts. Made from coconut oil and other plant-based goodness, Violife offers a variety of flavors, from classic cheddar to zesty pepperjack. Prepare to be wowed by their meltability and versatility in all your favorite cheesy dishes!

Field Roast

With Field Roast, it’s not just about the meat alternatives; their vegan cheese offerings are equally exceptional! Dive into a world of flavor with their Chao slices, shreds, and blocks, made from fermented tofu and seasoned to perfection. Their slices are perfect for grilling up a mouthwatering plant-based sandwich or adding a creamy layer to your veggie-packed wraps. Field Roast brings the creativity and taste you crave, so you can delight in cruelty-free cheesy goodness.

So Delicious

Indulge in the plant-based decadence of So Delicious! Crafted from premium coconut milk, their vegan cream cheese style spreads are a heavenly dairy-free experience for all your cheesy cravings! Spread onto crackers, bagels, or use in dips and desserts!

Forager

Forager is all about keeping it simple, delicious, and kind to your taste buds and the planet. Their artisanal cashew-based cheeses are bursting with flavor and crafted with natural ingredients. Whether you’re spreading their creamy delights on a cracker or mixing them into a gourmet pasta sauce, Forager’s vegan cheese options will elevate any dish with ease.

Daiya

Known for their melty shreds, slices, and blocks, this brand has got you covered for all your cheesy cravings. Their innovative blend of tapioca starch and plant-based proteins creates a stretchy and satisfying vegan cheese experience. So, go ahead, load up your pizzas, quesadillas, and casseroles with Daiya’s deliciousness and watch your dishes transform into vegan masterpieces!

GOOD PLANeT

Good Planet takes being planet-friendly seriously, crafting their vegan cheese alternatives with sustainable coconut oil. Their slices and shreds are rich, smooth, and perfect for those who crave the classic cheesy flavors. Whether you’re making a gooey grilled cheese sandwich or adding a luscious topping to your favorite plant-based chili, Good Planet will have you hooked from the very first bite.

Follow Your Heart

With Follow Your Heart, you can embark on a journey of exploration through a wide range of vegan cheese alternatives. From their versatile shreds that melt like a dream to their crumbly feta-style options, there’s something for every cheese lover. With unique and delightful flavors, you’ll find yourself using Follow Your Heart’s cheeses in all your culinary creations, from savory dishes to delectable desserts.

Pamerla

Parmela is here to prove that plant-based cheese can be just as gourmet and luxurious as traditional dairy. Their aged nut cheeses are perfect for elevating your dishes, adding depth, and indulgence to your culinary repertoire. From tangy cheddar to sophisticated truffle flavors, Parmela’s cheeses are crafted to impress even the most discerning palates.

The Uncreamery

Ready to experience the creamiest of vegan cheeses? Look no further than The Uncreamery! Specializing in nut-based delights, this brand offers a variety of creamy spreads and luscious sauces. Slather them on toast, stir them into pasta, or drizzle them over roasted vegetables. The Uncreamery’s creations are pure creamy bliss that’ll make your taste buds dance with joy.

If you’re looking for more vegan cheese goodness, then you’ll love our “Battle of the Vegan Cheddar Cheeses.” We do a live taste-test comparison of four of the most popular vegan cheddar cheese brands out there. Surprisingly, we reached a unanimous decision on the best, but you’ll have to watch the video to find out who won!

Best Vegan Cheeses For Every Occasion

• Miyoko’s Mozz – This is the gold standard of vegan meltable cheese, in our book. It’s the perfect cheese to shred or slice atop pizza, in our vegan meatball subs, and anywhere else you want melty mozzarella goodness. The only downside is the price—it is a bit pricier than the other options because it’s an artisan and more gourmet product. But it’s so worth the price if you can afford it!
• Field Roast CHAO Slices – These sandwich slices are delicious cold on sandwiches, but they are also great melted in grilled cheese sandwiches and on top of other dishes that need a melted cheesy finish!
• So Delicious Shreds – These vegan cheese shreds are becoming widely accessible and also quite popular! They’re delicious on pizza and casserole bakes.
• Follow Your Heart’s Vegan Gourmet – We organized a vegan cheddar cheese shreds taste test with a longtime vegan, a new vegan, and an omnivore. The Follow Your Heart cheese was the unanimous winner (when served in a quesadilla)!
• Parmela Creamery – Parmela Creamery’s vegan cheese shreds are newer to the market but they’re quickly growing their distribution and becoming a favorite of many! The won second place in our vegan cheddar cheese face-off competition.
• Daiya – Daiya is one of the most widespread vegan cheese company in the United States. You can now find their cheeses in many mainstream grocery stores and on the menu in countless pizza shops and restaurants. Daiya’s shredded varieties include Mozzarella, Pepperjack, Cheddar and original. They stretch and melt as well as the dairy alternative. Mozzarella is my go-to for topping pasta and lasagnas. Their sandwich slices are perfect for grilled cheeses and melted paninis.

Best Vegan Cheese for Sprinkling

• Follow Your Heart Shredded Parmesan – I haven’t found another cheese that I enjoy more for sprinkling over hot pasta or in cold salads. Whether it’s a finishing touch to a classic Caesar or a simple sprinkle on fresh arugula dressed with lemon juice, this cheese tastes better than the dairy version.
• GoVeggie! Grated Parmesan – This is a great replacement for the classic Parm in the green can that most of us grew up shaking on top of spaghetti. It also works great in homemade pesto. GoVeggie! also makes slices, cream cheese, and shreds, but I love this product from them the best!
• Parmela Creamery – This artisan cheese shop recently introduced shreds that have become a favorite in my house for sprinkling fresh on tacos. Their cheddar flavor is the closest thing I have tasted to the dairy version. They also have mozzarella!
• Violife Vegan Parmesan Wedge – Violife has been a popular vegan brand in Europe for some time, but they are just not entering the United States. And thank goodness they’re here because their cheese is amazing! The make a phenomenal grate-able parmesan block and lots of other delicious cheeses that are all vegan. Plus, all their cheeses have added Vitamin B12!
• Nutritional Yeast – Nutritional yeast isn’t quite cheese, but it carries a cheesy flavor and is commonly used as a cheesy sprinkle! It’s also used in many vegan cheese recipes—for cheese sauces, mac and cheese, and beyond. “Nooch”—or “Vegan Fairy Dust” as it is lovingly referred to—is a staple in most vegan households. You can learn more about it here.

Best Vegan Cheese Slices for Sandwiches

For even more suggestions on savory cheese selections for sandwiches (and more!), you’ll love this Vegan Cheese Slices guide!

• Field Roast CHAO Slices – These are widely considered the best sliced vegan cheese on the market. You’d never guess that they’re coconut-based! They’re delicious in a panini, but I also devour them as a cold slice straight from the package or stacked on a sandwich.
• Follow Your Heart Slices and Blocks – Follow Your Heart has a whole array of vegan cheese options for you. With six sliced and eight block options to choose from, they have your sandwich needs covered. Take your pick from Pepper Jack, Smoked Gouda, Provolone, Garden Herb, Mozzarella, American, and Cheddar!
• Violife Vegan Cheese Slices – Violife has basic Cheddar and Provolone slices, as well as fancier Smoked Provolone and Mature Cheddar slices. They’re all quite delicious and can be found in grocery stores nationwide.

Best for a Cheese Board

• Miyoko’s Artisan Cheese – Hands down, this is the best cheese I have ever had—dairy or not. With about a dozen varieties, your cheese plate will wow guests with varieties like Herbs de Provence, Double Cream Chive, and French Style Winter Truffle. 
• Vtopian Artisan Cheese – The artisan cheeses from this Portland store take cheese to a whole new level. Delight your taste buds with inspired offerings like Port Cheddar, Caramelized Onion, and Peppercorn Brie.
• Vromage – The cheeses from this Los Angeles shop also ship online so you can enjoy gourmet selections like Brie and Manchego even if you aren’t a local Angelino.

Best for Spreading

• Treeline Treenut Cheese – The creamy and flavorful vegan cheeses from Treeline are made with cashews. Their creations are inventive and robust with flavor and include Herb Garlic, Chipotle-Serrano Pepper, Scallion, and Sea Salt & Pepper. Their smooth consistency spreads easily on a baguette or crackers.
• Violife Cream Cheese – Coconut-based Violife cream cheese spreads on smoothly and is a great addition to any bagel, slice of bread, veggie, or even slice of fruit! It’s soy-free and is also free from cashews, almonds, and many other common allergens. You can choose from Plain, Garlic & Herb, and Cheddar! Pro tip: the Garlic & Herb goes great in mashed potatoes!
• Kite Hill Cream Cheese Style Spreads – The almond milk cream cheeses from Kite Hill are my top choices for smearing on a bagel. They are decadent, flavorful, and have a perfect consistency. Their vegan cream cheese comes in three flavors: Plain, Chive (my fave!), Everything, and Garden Veggie.

Best for Italian Dishes

• Kite Hill Ricotta – I crumble this vegan ricotta cheese liberally in lasagnas and often sprinkle it in salads. It’s a cheese staple in my house.
• Miyoko’s Mozzarella – I mentioned the Smoked VeganMozz above, but I had to also give a shout out to Miyoko’s traditional VeganMozz. I have used it to make marinated mozzarella balls, skewered with cherry tomatoes and basil for an elegant appetizer. It also slices beautifully for a traditional Caprese salad without the dairy and makes a delicious Caprese sandwich, fresh or grilled on a panini press. And of course, it works perfectly on homemade vegan pizza! 

How To Make Vegan Cheese

Whatever your skill level and however well your kitchen is equipped, there’s a vegan cheese recipe out there for you.

However, we minimally recommend that anyone interested in a healthy plant-strong diet has the following in their kitchen.

Essential Kitchen Tools

• A food processor and/or a high-powered blender for grinding nuts and seeds and blending the creamiest cheeses and cheesy sauces.
• A strainer and cheesecloth for draining your vegan cheese.
• Nutritional yeast, which is a deactivated yeast with a nutty and cheesy flavor.
• Miso paste, which can make your cheese taste more “cheesy.”
• Salt and lemon, for saltiness and tartness, respectively.

Needless to say, choosing dairy-free is easier today than it ever has been before. No longer does it require sacrifice. Enjoy the adventure, friends!

The Best Vegan Cheese Recipes

Vegan cheese is not only readily available but it has also never been more delicious. It wasn’t even that long ago that meltable vegan cheese was an outlier! Store-bought vegan cheese has come a very, very long way over the past few decades.

Remember when vegan cheese wouldn’t even stay melted for more than 20 seconds? Well, we do! Thankfully there are plenty of brands available today with totally meltable options. In this guide we’ll feature recipes for homemade vegan cheese. Some call for nuts or seeds while others rely on tofu but all of them are easy, accessible, and delicious. Whether you’re looking for something to spread on a sandwich or a unique vegan fromage to serve at a fancy dinner, we’ve got you covered.

Vegan Almond Cheese Log

A super easy vegan cheese recipe for the holidays, our almond-based log comes together in just over a half hour! Great with crackers, bread, veggies, and more.

Chipotle Vegan Parmesan Seasoning

Want a vegan cheese recipe that’ll spice up your life? Then you need this delicious chipotle vegan parmesan! Great on salads, pastas, popcorn and even for crusting around tofu! Also makes an incredible homemade gift.

Almond and Pu-erh Spread

This unique and delicious plant-based cheese recipe from From My Bowl is made from only five simple ingredients! Oil-free, gluten-free, and soy-free, this vegan cheese is perfect for spreading on a sandwich or eating on a cracker. Even lasts up to a week in the fridge!

Vegan Ricotta Recipe

One of our favorite vegan cheese recipes is this creamy plant-based ricotta from Rachel Steenland. Made from a blend of tofu, spices, and nutritional yeast, you just may find yourself adding this vegan ricotta onto everything you make. Pasta? Check! Salad? Check! Green bean casserole? Check!

Vegan Mozzarella Recipe

It’s not always easy to find plant-based cheese recipes that both stretches and melts. Thankfully this vegan mozzarella by Steph Sunshine is here to save the day! The magic ingredients to this vegan cheese are tapioca flour and agar agar flakes, along with cashews, coconut oil, water, salt, and lemon juice. Perfect for frying into vegan mozzarella sticks, melting onto pizza, or just enjoying on its own!

Vegan Feta Cheese Recipe

Ever dreamed of a day where you’d be able to enjoy a savory, comforting bite of some vegan feta cheese? Well, that day is here! This amazingly easy vegan cheese recipe requires just a handful of everyday ingredients and a few hours to set.

Vegan Cheese Dip With Pretzels

This recipe not only features a super easy vegan cheese dip but also delicious pretzel bites to eat with it! All you need is to combine the ingredients in a sauce pan and heat them up. Absolutely perfect for a vegan cheese party!

Vegan Buffalo Queso

Sometimes all you need is a big old bowl of the best vegan queso ever, a bag of chips, and a good movie. Cashews, tofu, buffalo sauce, and more make up the base of this awesomely simple dairy-free queso. Feeling extra adventurous? Go ahead and make some vegan quesadillas to devour with it!

Homemade Vegan Blue Cheese

If you like your vegan cheese a little funky, then this dairy-free cheese recipe for blue cheese by Hannah Kaminsky will rock your world. Nut-free and made from fermented Chinese tofu, white beans, and more, this vegan blue cheese packs quite a pungent punch. Crumble on salads, eat with crackers, or even make your own vegan charcuterie board.

Vegan Mascarpone Cheese

This velvety and creamy vegan mascarpone cheese from Health My Lifestyle is the perfect dairy-free alternative to the classic Italian cheese! With just 4 simple ingredients and 10 minutes, you can indulge in the richness of mascarpone without any dairy! Spread it over freshly baked vegan pastries, layer it between sponge cakes, or use it in a vegan tiramisu!

Cultured Cashew Cheese

This vegan cashew cheese from Olives for Dinner uses a unique combination of coconut vinegar and coconut cream to recreate a delicious cheese that’s perfect for dipping or spreading! Richness and acidity can be tweaked to your liking, making this vegan cheese recipe versatile and customizable.

Vegan Mac And Cheese

Prepare to be amazed when you try our baked vegan mac and cheese. Witness the magic as the cheese sauce thickens to perfection on the stove, creating a flavorful, gooey delight that rivals its dairy-based counterpart. Trust me; this vegan mac and cheese is so unbelievably delicious that you absolutely must try it!

Holiday Baked Dairy-Free Cheese With Guava Swirl

There’s nothing quite like the unbeatable combination of sweet and savory. This amazing holiday recipe for vegan cheese from Very Vegan Val is absolutely perfect for a spread, party, or special occasion. Even better is that it’ll only take less than an hour from start to finish! Cheers to that!

Vegan Cheese Cookbooks

• Artisan Vegan Cheese
• This Cheese Is Nuts!
• Vegan Cheese: Simple Delicious Plant-Based Recipes
• Super-Easy Vegan Cheese Cookbook

If you don’t quite feel ready to make your own vegan cheese or simply don’t have the time or interest to cook (we feel ya), then you’ll want to check out some of the most popular vegan cheese brands out there.

Affordable Cheese Alternatives

When I made the switch to a vegan lifestyle a decade ago, there weren’t a zillion vegan cheese options like there are today. In fact, there weren’t any in my college town of Cleveland, Ohio. So I went without.

Painful? Surprisingly, not really! I thought it was going to be a huge challenge, a sacrifice I was making for the animals. But truth be told, I quickly acclimated to equally delicious (and far healthier) alternatives.

Here are the easy vegan cheese substitutes that I still use and love:

• Avocado with salt: Cheese is essentially just fat and salt, so salted avocado (or guacamole) did the trick in my burritos, sandwiches, and beyond.
• Nutritional yeast, olive oil, salt, and garlic powder: Perfect as a replacement for parmesan on pasta.
• Hummus: It’s surprisingly easy to make and a great budget-friendly alternative to cheese.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which cheeses are vegan-friendly?

While “dairy-free” and “lactose-free” cheeses can be vegan, beware! They aren’t always.

Some lactose-free cheeses are made from dairy milk, with the lactose sugars simply removed. Others are made from plant-based ingredients like soy, but have some dairy derivatives added in (such as “casein” which is the protein found in mammalian milk).

So you may come across a cheese labeled “Dairy-Free Soy Cheese” and pick it up with great enthusiasm assuming it’s vegan. But—it may not be! So be sure to always check the ingredient list until you become familiar with which options are good-to-go.

With that disclaimer out of the way, there are tons of vegan cheeses out there, and even many fully-vegan cheese brands (such as those listed above). It truly gets easier, more delicious, and more accessible every day!

What is vegan cheese made of?

It depends on the cheese. Whatever food allergies or restrictions you may have, there’s probably a vegan cheese out there for you, though.

Many store-bought vegan cheeses are made from soy, nuts, or tapioca flour. Nut-based vegan cheeses are arguably the most popular bases for homemade vegan cheeses, with almond- and cashew-based cheeses being quite common.

However, you’re increasingly more likely to find zucchini-, sunflower seed-, and coconut-based vegan cheeses as well.

Soaked nuts and seeds such as cashews, almonds, and sunflower seeds blend beautifully to create all sorts of creamy foods. If you blend them with lots of water, you’ll get nut milk. If you blend them with some liquid and flavorful ingredients and spices, you can make dressings and cheesy sauces. And with even less liquid and some fun techniques that you’ll find in vegan cheese recipes all across the web, you can get delicious vegan cheese.

Nuts and seeds naturally contain healthy fats. When blended with salt and flavorings, these wholesome ingredients can beautifully emulate the fattiness and creaminess of dairy cheese.

Why are many vegan cheeses made of soy?

Soy is an amazing base for vegan cheeses and often leads to a final product that tastes the most like dairy cheese.

It surprises many to learn that soybeans are the same as edamame, the green beans you may have had at a Japanese restaurant. These magical little beans have been a healthful and protein-rich staple in many cultures since ancient times.

Today we turn to soybeans to make soy milk, tofu (see how tofu is made), vegan meats, cheeses, and beyond.

And don’t worry, for those who have been confused by rumors in the media, there’s no reason to be afraid of soy. Unless you’re allergic, of course!

Is vegan cheese healthier than dairy-based cheeses?

Yes and no.

While vegan cheeses don’t contain any artery-clogging cholesterol (cholesterol is only found in animal products) and usually have very little saturated fat (often none at all), they can still be high-calorie and high in salt or preservatives, especially if you purchase store-bought vegan cheeses.

If you’re eating a primarily whole foods plant-based diet, a little fat and salt in your cheese is nothing to worry about. It’s important to have balance and healthy fats, friends!

But don’t go crazy. Let’s leave the world where we dump piles of cheese on every meal behind us, shall we?

Where can I buy vegan cheeses?

We’ve noticed more and more chain grocery stores stocking vegan-friendly cheeses in recent years.

If you can’t find a vegan cheese you like at your local supermarket, we recommend putting in a request to your grocery store! You can also check out Sprouts, Whole Foods, or your local Natural Foods store as they’ll likely have many options.

And… guess what? You can now order gourmet vegan cheese online directly from Miyoko’s, from specialty online shops, and even Amazon has some vegan cheese items that they can ship to your doorstep!

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My Story: How I Transitioned from Dairy-Based to Vegan Cheeses

I wasn’t born a vegan. Oh, no. I was very much brought up in a traditional American household (see my vegan story here) with lots and lots of meat, milk, and cheese. Meat, I could do without, to be honest, which made it easy for me to go vegetarian when I was just 8 years old. But milk? And cheese? They were my jam.

So when I picked up a copy of Animal Liberation at a used bookstore in college and learned that the dairy industry was even more horrifying as the meat industry, I was feeling overwhelmed, to say the least. I knew I wanted to stop eating dairy and fairly quickly transitioned to soy and almond milk. But cheese?

Need More Help Breaking Free From Dairy Cheese?

Want a little extra help breaking the dairy addiction? We’ve got you! Check out our e-course, The 12-Day Dairy Detox. We’ll hold your hand and show you the way. You’ll be embracing dairy-free-dom in no time!

Vegan Cheese Podcast Episode

Want to learn more? Here’s our podcast episode all about vegan cheese!

Additional Dairy-Free Cheese Resources

• 7 Gourmet Vegan Cheeses You’ll Love
• Vegan Blue Cheese Guide
• Battle of the Vegan Cheddar Cheeses (Video)
• Vegan Cottage Cheese
• Best Boxed Vegan Mac ‘n’ Cheeses
• Vegan Cream Cheese Guide
• Vegan Ricotta Cheese

More Mouthwatering Vegan Food Guides

• Vegan Bacon Guide
• Vegan Soup Recipes
• Plant-Based Potato Recipes
• Best Tofu Recipes

We hope you found this guide for vegan cheese recipes and brands to be helpful, inspiring, and mouthwatering! Be sure to check out our links to additional vegan cheese resources down below and feel free to shout out your favorite brands or recipes in the comments below!

The post 20+ Best Vegan Cheese Brands and Recipes (Ultimate Guide) appeared first on World of Vegan.

From sharp and tangy profiles to creamy and melt-in-your-mouth textures, these culinary creations have captured the essence of blue cheese while paving the way for a more inclusive and sustainable vegan cheeses. While this specific flavor is more of a love-or-hate-it type, it’s still pretty incredible that dairy-free cheese lovers even get a choice!

If you’re new to the land of the blue, let’s cheese the day and discover why it’s so grate!

What Is Blue Cheese?

Blue cheese is a type of cheese known for its distinct blue or green veins of mold. It is traditionally made from cow’s, sheep’s, or goat’s milk and has a sharp and tangy flavor profile. The characteristic blue mold is created by introducing specific types of bacteria (usually Penicillium) during the cheese-making process.

Is Blue Cheese The Same As Gorgonzola?

Gorgonzola is actually a type of blue cheese. Blue (or in French, bleu) cheese is the general class of cheeses with a scraggy appearance and thick, crumbly texture. It has a creamier texture and a milder flavor and aroma.

Other types of blue cheese besides the Italian Gorgonzola include Danablu (Danish), Maytag (American), Roquefort (French), and Stilton (English).

Best Vegan Blue Cheese Brands

From creamy and tangy to rich and pungent, these culinary creations will leave you wondering how it’s even possible to enjoy the pleasures of this funky cheese without a single animal product in sight. Get ready to totally change up your plant-based cheese game with these bold blue cheese brands!

Bandit Barn Cat

This savory wonder is gluten-free, grain-free, and dairy-free cheese crafted by hand in Pennsylvania. The main ingredients of this luscious product are cashews and coconut oil. Bandit’s vegan blue cheese pairs nicely with bread, nuts, crackers, and anything with an earthy undertone such as mushrooms and beets.

Climax Foods

Dairy-free, high in protein, and fantastically flavorful are the factors that make Climax Foods’ Blue Cheese famous. Their molecular-level research and earth-friendly ingredients combine to create an entirely unique and delicious alternative to dairy cheeses. Climax won the Veg News Best of Show Award for 2023.

Follow Your Heart

One of our favorite, easy-to-find vegan cheese brands! This dairy-free Follow Your Heart bleu cheese is wonderfully tasty on salads, burgers, and more. It’s a unique blend of coconut oil, potato starch, potato protein, and spirulina. Besides being gluten-free and soy-free, these vegan blue cheese crumbles are tangy and oh-so-creamy.

Katona’s Kreamery

Katon’s CocoBlue is plant-based, small business brand that uses a coconut/cashew base for their alluring vegan cheese. The flavor is traditionally umami (as well as satisfying stinky) and is enhanced by its rich creaminess. Its blue-veined appearance is surprisingly beautiful, as well. Check out their Instagram page for interesting photos of the curing process!

Nuts for Cheese

A woman-owned brand that offers an organic, fermented, and dairy-free creation called Super Blue. This brilliant blue cheese is primarily made with cashews, coconut oil, quinoa rejuvelac, and chickpea miso. A unique and outstanding combination that also features the superfood, spirulina, for added color and health benefits.

Nutty

Voted Best Blue Vegan Cheese of 2022 in Vegancheese.co Awards. This tempting Roquefort-type is made in Spain and is gluten-free, non-GMO, palm oil-free, lactose-free, dairy-free, and soy-free. An incredibly tasty, cashew-based cheese that melts marvelously and is perfect on crackers.

Peaceful Rebel

Colorado Blue is mushroom-infused dairy-free blue cheese with a creamy, crumbly texture and sharp flavor. The ingredients in this particular plant-based cheese are tofu, coconut oil, and sesame seeds plus other vegan flavors. It’s gluten-free, non-GMO, and glorious as a snack or on top of salads or sandwiches.

Reine Vegan Cuisine

Artisan Spirulina, a fabulous faux-gonzola cheese from the Reine brand, is “cultured, aged, and marbled” with this incredible superfood. It gets its richness from cashews and coconut milk and its tart taste from spirulina. Reine’s vegan blue cheese goes well with fresh or dried pears and the packaging is beautifully elegant.

RIND by Dina & Joshua

Rind NYC is vegan-owned and operated since 2017. Their self-proclaimed “funky & bold” vegan bleu cheese is sold in a mini wheel format and is 100% gluten-free. The base of the cheese is created using cashew nuts, tofu, and coconut oil. This award-winning brand is also expanding their line of heavenly plant-based products.

Virgin Cheese

This artisan bleu, organic cheese is lovingly blended and formed from a mixture of cashew nut milk, coconut oil, and chickpea miso. It is free of soy, lactose, GMOs, gluten, and dairy. The founders, Jodi and Anthony, declare this divine vegan blue cheese to be salty, savory, and pungent. Virgin Cheese was nominated for Best Vegan Artisan Cheese in the Country by VegNews Magazine in 2020.

Keeping our fingers crossed that we see a Violife Blue Cheese on the market someday!

Vegan Bleu Cheese Dressing

Chances are, if you adore vegan blue cheese, you also love diving into the dressing. Though there aren’t as many plant-based products available as there for cheese blocks, we’re confident that there are more on the way. This scrumptious sauce is delightful on salads, but you don’t want to forget the crackers, sandwiches, potatoes, and fresh veggies that would be deliciously doused with a bit of zesty blue!

• Daiya Blue Cheeze Dairy-Free Dressing
• Follow Your Heart Dairy-Free Bleu Cheese Dressing
• Simple Truth Plant-Based Blue Cheese Flavored Dressing (check out the awesome reviews on the abillion app!)

FAQs

A Eurythmics-Inspired Blue Cheese Poem

“Sweet dreams are made of cheese.

Who am I to dis a brie?

I cheddar the world and the feta cheese.

Everybody’s looking for stilton.”

(Thanks to BoredPanda.com for sharing this hilarious take on the Eurythmics song, “Sweet Dreams”!)

More Creamy Vegan Cheese Recipes to Try

• For all things cheezy, make sure to check out this Ultimate Vegan Cheese Guide.
• Bagel Lovers, find the perfect spread with this Vegan Cream Cheese and Vegan Cottage Cheese collections!
• If you’ve been dying to find a tasty option for your Greek salad, this Vegan Feta Cheese & Tofu Feta Recipe is bound to fit the bill.
• Our Best Vegan Cheddar Cheese Brands and Vegan Cheese Slices guides will help you to find the best dairy-free cheddar for any occasion.
• Gourmet Vegan Cheeses are an amazing appetizer at any party and make a wonderful gift.
• Need a snack asap? This No-Wait Vegan Cheese Log will do the trick!
• To add some ooey-gooey goodness to your next meal, check out our vegan mozzarella guide!

Vegan blue cheese takes plant-based innovation to new heights, offering a tangy and bold flavor experience that’s impossible to resist. So, grab a cracker, spread on some vegan blue cheese, and savor the guilt-free indulgence. It’s time to take a leap into this vegan cheezy wonderland and never look back. Cheers to a world where compassion and flavor come together in such a delicious way.

The post Vegan Blue Cheese (Ultimate Guide) appeared first on World of Vegan.