Vegan cheese is a dairy-free delight that’s winning vegan food lovers' hearts with its creamy, cheesy flavours. Though it used to be seen as a rather "plain" and "flavourless" cheese alternative, it has now evolved into something truly exciting for every palate.
Today, you can explore a variety of incredible flavours. You don't have to compromise on taste to savour these plant-based alternatives!
But, one may wonder, how do we choose the best one for our taste?
Want to know more about the different types of vegan cheese?
Ahead, we'll explore the world of vegan cheese and discover the essentials. Let's get started!
What is Vegan Cheese?
Vegan cheese is a dairy-free alternative made from plant-based ingredients and skipped dairy and animal-derived rennet, a common cheese-making enzyme.
Regular cheese is often not vegan because it’s made with animal-derived milk and rennet, which makes it unsuitable for those seeking cruelty-free options.
What is Vegan Cheese Made Of?
Vegan cheese is crafted from various plant-based ingredients made to replicate the taste and texture of "real" cheese.
Popular bases include nuts, seeds, soy, coconut oil, and even potatoes. These ingredients are blended with seasonings like garlic, pepper, and herbs.
Here's a list of the various ingredients used in vegan cheese:
Nuts like cashews, almonds, macadamia nuts, and pistachios
Seeds like sunflower and sesame seeds
Soy like soybeans or tofu
Coconut oil or coconut milk
Potatoes and tapioca starch
Seasonings like garlic, pepper, and nutritional yeast
Types of Vegan Cheese
Based on a recent study, the vegan cheese market has been growing due to some factors, one of which is the diverse range of plant-based cheese products nowadays. Here are some of the vegan cheese types on the market:
Classic Camembert Vegan-style
Vegan Camembert is a plant-based version of the soft-ripened classic. It is made with ingredients like cashews, coconut oil, and nutritional yeast. The texture? Creamy with a bloomy rind and delicate tang.
Perfect for cheese boards, it pairs beautifully with crackers, fruit, or bread. Some versions of vegan Camembert undergo fermentation and aging to develop complex gourmet flavours, but not all vegan Camembert products are made this way.
Baked Vegan Camembert
The baked version of vegan Camembert is a warm, gooey delight. What makes it different is that it is baked until golden and bubbly. The result is a rich, melty centre ideal for dipping crusty bread or fresh veggies.
While some commercial options exist, baked vegan Camembert is often prepared at home. It’s a comforting, shareable dish for any gathering.
Vegan Cottage Cheese
Vegan cottage cheese is light, tangy, and versatile. Made with tofu or cashews, it has a soft, curd-like texture enhanced by lemon juice, apple cider vinegar, and a pinch of salt.
This cheese is perfect for salads, toast, or creamy pasta, though its texture may differ slightly from traditional cottage cheese.
Vegan Mozzarella
Want a healthier version of the stretchy mozzarella? Try the vegan one. It is a stretchy, meltable favourite for pizzas and pasta.
It is typically made from cashews, coconut oil, or tapioca starch and mimics traditional mozzarella's mild flavour and gooey texture. You can use it for hot dishes or caprese salads with tomatoes and basil. A common brand option is Miyoko’s Creamery.
Vegan Parmesan Cheese
Now, your favourite dishes get a delicious upgrade that’s dairy-free, plant-based, and healthier too! With vegan parmesan, you'll get a hard, crumbly cheese with a sharp, nutty taste.
Made with cashews, nutritional yeast, and garlic powder, it’s perfect for grating over pasta, soups, and salads. A popular brand option includes Violife.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is vegan cheese healthy?
Yes, vegan cheese can be a healthy option, as it’s often lower in saturated fats and free of cholesterol. However, some varieties may be high in calories or sodium, so it’s essential to read the labels.
Does vegan cheese taste like cheese?
Is halloumi vegan?
Conclusion
Vegan cheese is a versatile, delicious, and healthier dairy-free option that fits perfectly into any lifestyle without the need to compromise the flavours. It is truly the best of both worlds!
Ready to try it for yourself? At Brother Bon Northcote, we proudly serve vegan food and meals crafted with care, including many dishes featuring the best vegan cheese (see below):
Poutine - Shaved Mozarella
BamBam - Shaved Mozarella
Cheesy Burger - Vegan Cheddar
Cheeseburger Cigars - Vegan Mozarella
Mushroom Toastie - Vegan Gouda
Tuna Toastie - Vegan Cheddar
Chilli Scramble - Vegan Feta
Creamy Udon Carbonara - Vegan Parmesan
Visit us today!
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