Vegan "Cheese"

For some people switching to a plant-based diet, giving up cheese can be trying. There are many substitutes out there, though none (obviously) are exactly like real cheese. If you're struggling, first think of how the cows must feel, and then check out your options for cheese alternatives.

There are tons and tons and tons of varieties of soy cheese. BEWARE, however, because many of these are packed full of animal products. Yes. Things like casein, whey, and even simply milk. So, check your labels.

I've tried several different brands, and the best (and one that comes most highly recommended by others) is Daiya. They offer shredded "cheeses" and also a list of other products that are made with these "cheeses," like frozen dinners, vegan pizzas, etc. You can find Daiya products at Whole Foods, and can check their website for other retail locations in your area.

Fake cheese isn't the only way to satisfy your cravings. I've heard some amazing things about cashew pizza, for instance. You'll be surprised how delicious things can be without the cheese. I've actually grown to prefer cheese-less pizzas. With a food processor and the wonders of tofu, you can make amazing onion, garlic, basil purees that make an excellent lasagna layer.



But my all time favorite discovery in this field is nutritional yeast. Nutritional yeast is a deactivated yeast produced by culturing with beet molasses and sugarcane. It comes in yellow flakes that can be purchased in bulk, or in small packages from most health food stores (Whole Foods has it in bulk, and in Tucson, New Life sells it as well).

There are so many ways to use it! Here are some recipes:

Cheesy Sprinkle

1/4 cup nutritional yeast
1/4 cup sesame seeds
1 tsp sea salt

Blend all ingredients in a food processor or clean coffee grinder until powdery. Store in airtight glass jar. Use as a topping for pastas, pizzas, popcorn, veggies, or anything you want.

Fake Cheese Sauce

1/4 cup nutritional yeast
1 cup rice milk or soy milk
1 or 2 TBSP mustard
1 TBSP flour- soy or wheat (as thickener)

Heat all ingredients in saucepan over medium heat, whisking constantly until thickened. Makes a great sauce for veggies, pasta, soups, etc.

Tofu Sandwich

2 TBSP nutritional yeast
1 tsp sea salt
1 lb firm tofu
bread- your choice
spinach
tomato
mustard
oil

Cut tofu into sandwich size slices. Mix nutritional yeast and salt together, and pour onto plate. Coat tofu in mixture on both sides. In oiled skillet, on medium heat, cook coated tofu 5 minutes on each side (or until browned). Place a slice of tofu, a couple slices of tomato, some spinach, and some mustard on toasted bread, and enjoy!!

You can experiment with any number of things to find your favorite cheese alternative. Having a food processor really helps get your creative juices flowing.

Let me know if you have any other recipes/ ideas!!