Vegan pepper jack cheese is a versatile and delicious plant-based cheese alternative that anyone can make at home. It's perfect for folks who are avoiding dairy or looking to spice up their meals with a bit of heat. This recipe is easy to follow and uses everyday ingredients that you likely have on hand.
About Vegan Pepper Jack Cheese
Vegan pepper jack cheese is made from a combination of cashews, nutritional yeast, and various spices. It has a creamy, smooth texture and a spicy kick that makes it a favorite among vegans and non-vegans alike. This cheese is also a great addition to any cheeseboard or Mexican inspired dishes.
How to Make Vegan Pepper Jack Cheese
Making vegan pepper jack cheese is easier than you might think. You'll need some basic ingredients and a few simple steps to create this tasty treat. Here's a step-by-step guide to making your own vegan pepper jack cheese:
Ingredients
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Water: 1 1/2 cups
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Raw cashews: 1 cup, unsoaked
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Tapioca starch: 2 tablespoons
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Nutritional yeast: 1 tablespoon
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Lemon juice: 1 tablespoon
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Apple cider vinegar: 1 tablespoon
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Kappa carrageenan: 1 tablespoon
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Salt: 1/2 teaspoon
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Onion powder: 1/2 teaspoon
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pickled jalapeño peptides: 1 tablespoon, minced (optional)
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Chili pepper flakes: 1/4 teaspoon (optional)
Instructions
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Prepare your ingredients: Gather all of your ingredients and have them readily available. You'll need water, cashews, tapioca starch, nutritional yeast, lemon juice, apple cider vinegar, kappa carrageenan, salt, onion powder, jalapeño peptides (optional), and chili pepper flakes (optional).
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Combine the ingredients: Begin by soaking the cashews in water for 15 minutes. Then, mince the pickled jalapeños and add all of the ingredients to a high-speed blender or food processor. Blend until the mixture is smooth and the cashews are softened.
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Cook the cheese: Remove the cashews from the blender and place them in a medium-sized pot. Add the blended ingredients back to the pot, along with any additional water or oil if needed. Over medium-high heat, bring the mixture to a gentle boil, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
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Cool and set: Once the cheese starts to boil, reduce the heat to medium-low and let it simmer for 10 minutes. Then, carefully pour the cheese into a prepared mold or bowl, cover it, and refrigerate it for at least 2 hours to allow it to set.
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Use your cheese: Once the cheese has set, you can slice it and enjoy it on crackers, add it to a cheese board, or use it in vegan quesadillas, fajitas, or tacos. It's also a great addition to breakfast recipes like French toast or pancakes.
Variations
While the basic recipe is simple, you can experiment with different ingredients to create a variety of vegan pepper jack cheeses. Here are a few variations to try:
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Sweetened version: Add a handful of raisins or dried cranberries to the cheese sauce before cooking to give it a sweet twist.
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Spicy version: Omit the pickled jalapeños and replace them with chili pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne pepper for a spicier flavor.
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Cashew-free version: Use plant-based yogurt or coconut milk in place of the cashews to create a non-dairy version of the cheese.
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增稠版本: For a spreadable cheese, mix in a dash of arrowroot or cornstarch to the sauce before cooking.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use refined coconut oil in place of virgin coconut oil?
A: Yes, refined coconut oil is a great substitute for virgin coconut oil, especially if you want a dairy-free option. Just be sure to measure accurately since refined coconut oil has a different density than virgin coconut oil.
Q: Can I make vegan pepper jack cheese with almond milk?
A: Absolutely, almond milk can be used in place of non-dairy milk in vegan pepper jack cheese recipes. Just be aware that it will not result in as rich and creamy a texture as Ripple Pea Protein Milk or other higher protein options.
Q: Is this pepper jack cheese vegetarian or vegan?
A: Yes, this recipe is both vegetarian and vegan since it does not include any meat or animal products.
Q: How long does vegan pepper jack cheese last in the refrigerator?
A: Leftover vegan pepper jack cheese will keep in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. It's always a good idea to store it in an airtight container to prevent oxidation and prolong its freshness., vegan pepper jack cheese is a delicious and easy-to-make alternative to traditional cheese. With just a few simple ingredients and a few minutes of preparation, you can enjoy a tasty, nutritious, and cruelty-free meal that's perfect for any occasion.
