What To Know
- Line a bowl with cheesecloth or a nut milk bag and pour the blended mixture into it.
- Store the vegan feta cheese in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
- Stored properly in an airtight container in the refrigerator, your vegan feta cheese will last for up to 5 days.
Craving the tangy, crumbly goodness of feta cheese without the dairy or soy? Look no further! This comprehensive guide will teach you how to make delicious vegan feta cheese soy free, using simple and accessible ingredients.
Ingredients
To make soy-free vegan feta cheese, you will need:
- 1 cup raw cashews, soaked overnight
- 1/2 cup nutritional yeast
- 1/4 cup lemon juice
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons white miso paste
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/4 teaspoon dried thyme
Equipment
- High-powered blender
- Cheesecloth or a nut milk bag
- Bowl
- Mold or container
Instructions
1. Drain and Rinse Cashews: Drain the soaked cashews and rinse them thoroughly.
2. Blend Ingredients: Add all the ingredients to a high-powered blender and blend until smooth and creamy.
3. Strain Mixture: Line a bowl with cheesecloth or a nut milk bag and pour the blended mixture into it. Tie the cloth or bag securely and hang it over the bowl to drain for 4-6 hours, or overnight.
4. Shape the Cheese: Transfer the drained mixture to a mold or container and press it down firmly to remove any excess liquid.
5. Refrigerate: Refrigerate the shaped cheese for at least 4 hours, or overnight, to firm up.
6. Crumble and Season: Crumble the hardened cheese into small pieces and season with additional oregano, thyme, or other herbs of your choice.
Variations
- Add Flavors: Experiment with different herbs, spices, or vegetables to customize the flavor of your feta cheese. Consider adding sun-dried tomatoes, olives, or roasted peppers.
- Adjust Texture: For a softer feta cheese, drain for a shorter time. For a firmer cheese, drain for longer.
- Use Different Nuts: Instead of cashews, you can use other nuts such as almonds, macadamia nuts, or walnuts.
Tips
- Use high-quality ingredients for the best flavor.
- Blend the ingredients until they are completely smooth to avoid a grainy texture.
- Don’t over-drain the mixture, as this can result in a dry cheese.
- Store the vegan feta cheese in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Serving Suggestions
Vegan feta cheese soy free can be used in various dishes, including:
- Salads
- Sandwiches
- Wraps
- Pizza
- Pasta dishes
- As a topping for soups or stews
Health Benefits
Vegan feta cheese soy free is a nutritious alternative to dairy-based feta cheese. It is:
- Rich in protein
- A good source of calcium
- Low in fat
- Free from lactose and cholesterol
Final Thoughts: A Culinary Triumph
Making vegan feta cheese soy free is an easy and rewarding culinary adventure. With its tangy flavor, crumbly texture, and versatility, this plant-based cheese will elevate your dishes and delight your taste buds.
Questions We Hear a Lot
Q: Can I use a different type of nut milk instead of cashew milk?
A: Yes, you can use almond milk, oat milk, or any other unsweetened plant-based milk.
Q: How long does the vegan feta cheese last?
A: Stored properly in an airtight container in the refrigerator, your vegan feta cheese will last for up to 5 days.
Q: Can I freeze the vegan feta cheese?
A: Yes, you can freeze the vegan feta cheese for up to 3 months. Thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before using it.
