Vegan Cheese – Easy Recipes, Tips & Benefits

If you’ve ever missed the stretch of melted cheese on a pizza or the tang of a veggie burger, you’re not alone. Vegan cheese gives you that same creamy bite without any dairy. The good news? You can whip it up with a few pantry staples, and it works in almost any dish you love.

How to Make Simple Vegan Cheese at Home

Start with a base you already have – nuts, soy, or even cauliflower. Soak 1 cup of cashews for at least four hours, then blend them with ¼ cup water, 2 tbsp nutritional yeast, 1 tsp lemon juice, a pinch of salt, and a dash of garlic powder. Blend until smooth; the mixture should feel thick but spreadable.

If you prefer a soy‑based version, use 1 ½ cups silken tofu, 2 tbsp miso paste, 2 tbsp nutritional yeast, and the same lemon‑salt combo. Blend until uniform, then taste and adjust. For a low‑nut‑option, steam 2 cups cauliflower florets, mash them, and stir in the same seasonings plus a little olive oil.

Once you have a smooth paste, you can shape it into a log, press it into a mold, or simply keep it in a jar. Let it chill in the fridge for at least an hour – the flavor deepens and the texture firms up. If you like a firmer cheese, add 1 tbsp agar‑agar dissolved in hot water before chilling.

Cooking with Vegan Cheese

Vegan cheese melts best when it has some fat content, so don’t be shy about adding a splash of coconut oil or olive oil to the mix. Sprinkle it over a baked pasta, melt it in a skillet for a grilled cheese, or toss it into a hot soup for creaminess.

Use it as a topping for tacos, blend it into sauces, or crumble it over salads for a salty punch. It also works great in baked dishes – just pop it on a pizza and bake at 200°C for 10‑12 minutes; you’ll see a golden, bubbly finish.

Store your homemade cheese in an airtight container. It keeps for about a week in the fridge and up to three months in the freezer. Thaw it in the fridge before using, and give it a quick stir if it separates a bit.

When you’re ready for more inspiration, check out our collection of vegan cheese recipes on the Delhi Spice Worcester site. From smoky paneer‑style cubes to cheesy cauliflower bites, there’s a flavor for every craving. Grab a jar, experiment, and enjoy the dairy‑free delight without missing the taste you love.