Quick and Easy Vegan Cottage Cheese: 7 Steps to Creamy Perfection
A quick and easy vegan cottage cheese made with cashews and almond milk, perfectly flavored with lemon, apple cider vinegar, and spices. This dairy-free delight is versatile and can be enjoyed as a dip, spread, or topping for salads and grain bowls.
Equipment
- Blender or food processor
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Mixing bowl
- Spatula
- Airtight container for storage
Ingredients
- 1 cup raw cashews soaked for at least 2-4 hours
- ¼ cup almond milk or any plant-based milk
- 1 lemon juiced
- 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar
- ¼ teaspoon garlic powder optional
- ¼ teaspoon onion powder optional
- Salt to taste
Instructions
- Soak the raw cashews in water for 2-4 hours or in hot water for 30 minutes. Drain and rinse.
- In a blender or food processor, combine the soaked cashews, almond milk, lemon juice, apple cider vinegar, garlic powder, onion powder, and salt.
- Blend until smooth and creamy, scraping down the sides as needed.
- Adjust the consistency with more almond milk if necessary, and taste to adjust seasonings.
- For a chunkier texture, blend for a shorter time or pulse a few times.
- Transfer to a mixing bowl, cover, and chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes if you prefer a firmer texture.
- Serve as a dip, spread, or topping, and enjoy!
Notes
- Nut Allergy: Substitute cashews with sunflower seeds or hemp seeds if you have a nut allergy.
- Flavor Adjustment: Feel free to add more lemon juice for acidity or salt to taste.
Twists and Variations
- Sweet Version: Add maple syrup and vanilla extract for a sweet treat.
- Mediterranean Style: Mix in chopped sun-dried tomatoes and olives.
- Spicy Option: Incorporate diced jalapeños for a kick.
- Herbed Version: Add fresh herbs like dill or chives for a refreshing twist.
Tips for Perfecting
- Soaking: Don’t skip soaking the cashews, as it helps achieve a creamy texture.
- Adjust Consistency: Add more almond milk gradually to reach your desired consistency.
- Chill for Flavor: Allow the mixture to chill for a while to enhance the flavor and texture.
- Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh herbs and spices for the best taste.
- Taste Test: Always taste and adjust the seasoning before serving to suit your palate.
