What is Plant-Based Cheese?

1. At its core, plant-based cheese embodies a culinary transformation – a dairy-free interpretation of the beloved classic. Crafted by blending plant-based ingredients with cultures and flavorings, plant-based cheese undergoes a fermentation process akin to its dairy counterpart. The result? A creamy, luscious alternative that rivals traditional cheese in taste and texture.

Embracing Versatility, Celebrating Diversity

1. Just like traditional cheese, plant-based cheese offers a spectrum of flavors and textures, each unique and equally delicious. Whether crafted from cashews, almonds, or soy, plant-based cheese invites experimentation and creativity in the kitchen. From meltable mozzarella to tangy cheddar, the possibilities are endless, limited only by your imagination.

Cultural Heritage, Modern Innovation

1. Plant-based cheese draws inspiration from a rich tapestry of culinary traditions spanning the globe. While its origins may be diverse, the essence remains the same – a celebration of craftsmanship and culinary ingenuity. From ancient methods passed down through generations to cutting-edge innovations, plant-based cheese honors the past while embracing the future of food.

The Health Benefits of Plant-Based Cheese

1. Indulging in plant-based cheese offers more than just culinary satisfaction – it's a choice that can positively impact your health and well-being. By opting for plant-based alternatives, you're reducing your reliance on animal agriculture, supporting a more sustainable food system, and embracing a diet rich in wholesome, plant-derived nutrients.

Why Make Your Own Plant-Based Cheese?

1. Crafting your own plant-based cheese grants you the freedom to tailor flavors and textures to suit your preferences. Whether you prefer creamy camembert or crumbly feta, homemade plant-based cheese puts you in control of the ingredients, allowing you to skip the additives and preservatives found in store-bought varieties. Plus, it's a cost-effective alternative that rewards you with the satisfaction of creating something delicious from scratch.

Let's make cheese – the plant-based way!

Master The Basics

1. When making vegan cheese at home, it is crucial to understand the basics of the process. Cleanliness and sanitation are key, as any unwanted bacteria can ruin the fermentation process and affect the taste and texture of your cheese. Make sure your work area and equipment are clean and sterilized before starting.
   
2. Another important aspect is understanding the role of various ingredients. For instance, soaking nuts before use can help soften them and make them easier to blend. It is also important to understand how the texture of different nuts can affect the final product. Almonds, cashews, and macadamia nuts are popular choices for vegan cheese-making, as they blend well and create a creamy texture.
   
3. Finally, it's important to experiment and find what works best for you. Adjusting the ratios of ingredients, fermentation time, and adding various natural flavorings can all impact the final taste and texture of your cheese.
   

4. Ingredients

   Choosing the right ingredients is key to making delicious vegan cheese. It's important to use healthy, natural ingredients and avoid overly processed or artificial ones. Nuts, such as almonds, cashews, and macadamias, are popular bases for vegan cheese, but other options like sunflower seeds and pumpkin seeds can also be used.

   Soaking the nuts before use is important to help soften them and make them easier to blend. Other key ingredients include nutritional yeast, which gives the cheese a tangy, cheesy flavor, and probiotics or other fermentation starters to help the cheese culture. Finally, it's important to experiment with different natural flavorings to create unique tastes and textures. Some popular options include garlic, herbs, and smoked paprika.

   Nuts & Seeds

   Nuts and nut-based milk serve as the creamy foundation of many plant-based cheeses, offering richness and texture. Cashews are a popular choice for their neutral flavor, but almonds and macadamias can also be used for their unique taste and texture.

   Substitution: For nut-free options, consider using seeds like sunflower, pumpkin or hemp seeds, or alternatives such as coconut cream or tofu for creaminess.

   Acids

   Acids like lemon juice or vinegar provide tanginess and acidity, mimicking the flavors found in dairy cheese. They also play a crucial role in the fermentation process.

   Substitution: For those avoiding citrus or vinegar, options like citric acid or tartaric acid can be used as substitutes.

   Nutritional Yeast

   Also known as "nooch," nutritional yeast is a key ingredient for adding a cheesy, umami flavor to plant-based cheeses. It's a must-have for enhancing the cheesiness of your creations and is suitable for various dietary preferences, including vegan and gluten-free diets.

   Probiotics & Other Fermentation Starters

   In the world of plant-based cheese making, probiotics and fermentation starters are the magic ingredients that transform simple plant-based ingredients into flavorful, nutritious cheeses. While probiotic capsules offer convenience and accessibility, exploring other fermentation starters can unlock new dimensions of taste and texture in your homemade cheeses. Let's delve into the diverse array of options:

   1. Pre-Made Vegan Probiotic Capsules or Powders

   For convenience and precision, pre-made vegan probiotic formulations are available in the form of capsules or powders. These products are meticulously crafted to meet the needs of vegan diets and can be seamlessly incorporated into plant-based cheese recipes. Ensure that the chosen product is culinary-grade and devoid of any additives that could hinder fermentation.

   2. Lactic Acid Bacteria (LAB)

   Lactic acid bacteria are the backbone of both dairy and plant-based cheese making. They possess the remarkable ability to ferment sugars present in plant-based ingredients, leading to the production of lactic acid. This process not only imparts a tangy flavor to the cheese but also aids in its preservation. Examples of Lactic Acid Bacteria include Lactobacillus acidophilus, Lactobacillus plantarum, and Lactobacillus rhamnosus.

   3. Bifidobacteria

   While less commonly used than LAB, Bifidobacteria are valued for their probiotic properties in plant-based cheese making. Species such as Bifidobacterium bifidum and Bifidobacterium longum can contribute to the fermentation process, enhancing the nutritional profile of the cheese.

   4. Fermented Plant-Based Starters

   Embracing the concept of fermentation, some plant-based cheese recipes employ fermented foods as starter cultures. Utilizing a small amount of sauerkraut brine, kimchi juice, unflavoured kombucha, water or milk kefir or rejuvelac — a fermented grain beverage — introduces beneficial bacteria into the cheese, jumpstarting the fermentation process and infusing it with complex flavours.

   5. Non-Dairy Yogurt Cultures

   Non-dairy yogurts containing live and active cultures serve as another viable option for initiating fermentation in plant-based cheeses. Opt for unsweetened varieties free from additives or preservatives that might impede the fermentation process.

   Vegan Thickener

   In the realm of vegan cooking, achieving the right texture and consistency in dishes often relies on the use of effective thickening agents. These ingredients not only help bind components together but also contribute to the overall mouthfeel and appeal of the final product. Here, we'll delve into some popular vegan thickening agents, each offering unique properties and applications in plant-based cuisine.

   1. Agar Agar

   • Agar agar forms a firm gel when cooled, providing excellent binding properties to hold plant-based cheese ingredients together.
   • It has a neutral flavor, allowing the authentic taste of the cheese ingredients to shine without any interference.
   • Agar agar creates a stable texture, ensuring that the plant-based cheese maintains its shape and consistency, even at room temperature.

   2. Kuzu Powder

   • Kuzu, also known as kudzu, is a powerful thickening agent commonly used in plant-based cheese making for its ability to create a smooth, elastic texture similar to that of dairy-based cheeses. Its high starch content allows it to gelatinize liquids at lower temperatures, making it an excellent choice for achieving the desired consistency and sliceability in vegan cheeses.
   • Similar to agar agar, kuzu powder has a neutral taste, preserving the natural flavors of the cheese ingredients.

   3. Tapioca

   • Tapioca can enhance the texture of plant-based cheese, giving it a gooey, stretchy feel similar to dairy cheese. However, it tends to solidify more with prolonged heating, so consider your desired consistency when using it in your recipe.
   • It has a mild flavor, allowing the other cheese ingredients to be the star of the dish while contributing to its creamy consistency.
   • Tapioca can be used in various forms, such as tapioca flour or pearls, providing flexibility in texture and application for different types of plant-based cheeses.

   In summary, Agar Agar, Kuzu powder, and tapioca offer unique properties that make them ideal choices for creating delicious and authentic plant-based cheeses.

   Substitution: Other thickeners such as arrowroot powder, cornstarch, potato starch, xanthan gum, guar gum, and psyllium husk can be used as substitutes but may differ in texture and taste.

   Oil

   In plant-based cheese making, oils play a pivotal role in achieving desired textures, flavors, and functionalities.

   1. Deodorized Coconut Oil

   Deodorized coconut oil is a popular choice in plant-based cheese making do to its neutral flavor and aroma, making it versatile for various cheese recipes. Unlike regular coconut oil, which retains the distinct coconut scent and taste, deodorized coconut oil undergoes a refining process to remove these characteristics, resulting in a flavorless and odorless oil. This makes it an ideal option for those who prefer a cheese with a clean, dairy-like taste without the coconut undertones. Additionally, deodorized coconut oil maintains the same creamy texture and meltability as its unrefined counterpart, making it suitable for a wide range of plant-based cheese applications.

   2. Cacao Butter

   Cacao butter is solid at room temperature and melts easily when heated, making it suitable for emulsifying and adding richness to cheese alternatives. When incorporating cacao butter, ensure it is melted and mixed thoroughly with the other ingredients to achieve a smooth consistency. Using cacao butter in plant-based cheese can add a rich and creamy texture, as well as a subtle chocolatey flavor. However, it's important to use it sparingly and consider its compatibility with the other flavors in your cheese recipe.

   Substitution: While other oils such as olive oil, sunflower oil, or grapeseed oil can also be used, they may impart their characteristic flavors to the cheese, so it's essential to consider the desired taste profile of the final product when selecting an oil.

   

5. Tools

   While making vegan cheese at home doesn't require any special equipment, having the right tools can make the process easier and more efficient. A high-speed blender is essential for blending the nuts and other ingredients into a smooth consistency. A food processor can also be used, but it may not create as smooth of a texture.

   Other useful tools include a cheesecloth or nut milk bag for straining the cheese, a silicone mold for shaping and pressing the cheese, and a thermometer for measuring temperature during fermentation.

   If you're just starting out, consider purchasing our vegan cheese-making kit here, which will include all the necessary equipment and ingredients to get started.

   Blender or Food Processor

   A high-powered blender or food processor is indispensable for thoroughly blending ingredients into smooth and creamy textures, especially when incorporating nuts, seeds, or tofu as the base of your cheese.

   Yogurt Maker

   While a yogurt maker isn't strictly necessary for making plant-based cheese, it can be a convenient tool for maintaining consistent temperatures during the fermentation process, especially if you're using probiotic cultures or fermentation starters.

   If you already have a yogurt maker, you can repurpose it for culturing certain types of plant-based cheeses that require fermentation. However, keep in mind that not all cheese recipes may be suitable for a yogurt maker, as some cheeses require different conditions or longer fermentation times.

   If you don't have a yogurt maker, don't worry! You can still make delicious plant-based cheese using alternative methods, such as using your oven with the light on for warmth or creating a makeshift incubator with towels and a warm spot in your kitchen. Experimentation and adaptation are key in cheese-making, so feel free to explore different methods that suit your preferences and equipment availability.

   They typically come with a proportionally sized glass container of sorts to hold your milk and starter combination. Basically, a yogurt maker is a perfectly controlled space to rest your mixture at the right temperature and keep it steady. If you plan on making yogurt and cheese with some frequency, this is a well-worth investment.

   Mason Jars

   Mason jars are incredibly useful for making plant-based cheese, especially for fermenting and storing. They provide an airtight environment that promotes proper fermentation and aging, allowing you to control the process more effectively. Additionally, mason jars come in various sizes, making them suitable for different batch sizes of cheese. You can use them for culturing cheese, straining nut milks for cheese-making, or storing finished cheeses in the refrigerator. Make sure to sterilize the jars before use to prevent any unwanted bacteria from contaminating your cheese.

   Nut Milk Bag or Cheesecloth

   These are essential for straining out excess moisture from your cheese mixture, resulting in a firmer and more cheese-like consistency. Nut milk bags are convenient and reusable, while cheesecloth offers versatility for various straining needs.

   Other Useful Tools

   Saucepan or Double Boiler

   For recipes requiring heating or melting ingredients, a saucepan or double boiler is essential to control temperature and prevent scorching. Opt for stainless steel or non-reactive cookware to maintain the purity of your cheese mixture.

   Molds or Ramekins

   Molds or ramekins come in handy for shaping and pressing your cheese into desired forms. You can use traditional cheese molds, silicone molds, or simply line ramekins with parchment paper for easy removal.

   Kitchen Thermometer

   Precision is key when working with temperatures in cheese-making, especially during culturing or heating stages. A kitchen thermometer ensures accuracy and consistency, helping you achieve the perfect texture and flavor in your plant-based cheese.

   Spatula or Wooden Spoon

   These utensils are indispensable for stirring, mixing, and scraping ingredients throughout the cheese-making process. Opt for heat-resistant silicone spatulas or wooden spoons to prevent scratching or melting in hot conditions.

   Storage Containers

   Proper storage is essential for preserving the freshness and flavor of your homemade plant-based cheese. Invest in airtight containers or glass jars to store your cheese in the refrigerator, ensuring longevity and maintaining optimal texture.

   With all the ingredients and tools at your disposal, it's time to begin crafting your plant-based cheese!

   

6. What is a Yogurt-Maker?

   Our homemade yogurt-making kit provides a warm and stable environment for your plant-based cheese to ferment.

   

7. Is Temperature Important?

   Make sure your liquids are hot before adding thickening starches.

   

8. Special Molds & Cheesecloth

   A cheese mold and cheesecloth can help the cheeses maintain their shape and breathe.