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The trend toward a more plant-based diet is constantly growing, as a Nielsen survey shows: one in four Italian families consumes plant-based products, not just milk. In addition to yogurt, cheeses made from nuts or legumes are also becoming popular. Let's discover some delicious recipes for making vegan cheeses at home.
Fashion or necessity? Everyone loves vegan cheeses.
With a mix of ethics, curiosity, health, and even fashion, more and more Italians are turning to vegan cheeses. Although they are often called "vegan cheeses," it's important to note that, by law, the term "cheese" is reserved for products derived from animal milk. However, these alternative cheeses are obtained through controlled fermentations of plant-based ingredients, mixed with water and mineral coagulants such as magnesium chloride and calcium sulfate. Let's discover together some vegan cheeses made from dried fruit, a food that, as we've already explored here, should never be missing from our diet.
Ricotta with Macadamia Nuts
Among the various options, macadamia nuts stand out as an excellent choice for creating vegan cheeses thanks to their soft texture.
Vegan macadamia nut ricotta is a completely plant-based preparation, ideal for topping pasta or enjoying on its own. It's delicious with toast, vegetables, or fruit jams. Its versatility makes it suitable for both savory and sweet dishes. Macadamia nut ricotta can be prepared in just 5 minutes. Below are the quantities for 200 g of ricotta:
Ingredients
Preparation
First, soak the macadamia nuts Macadamia nuts in hot water for at least 4 hours, or even better, overnight. After soaking, drain the macadamia nuts well and transfer them to a food processor along with the lemon juice and a pinch of salt. Begin blending, adding water a little at a time until you reach the desired consistency. You can also transfer the ricotta to a bowl lined with plastic wrap to give it a regular shape and let it rest in the refrigerator for an hour. Then serve it on a plate and enjoy it, for example, spread on a nice slice of brown multi-grain bread.
Walnut and Cashew Spreadable Cheese
Another quick option is walnut and cashew spreadable cheese cashews.
We've already talked about the numerous benefits of cashews and walnuts , but thanks to the flavor of this cheese, you'll never be able to do without a supply of dried fruit at home! Like all spreadable cheeses, it's delicious spread on toasted bread or served as an aperitif on crackers.
Ingredients:
- 80 g walnuts
- 20 g cashews
- about 45 ml water
- 1 tablespoon flaxseed oil or extra virgin olive oil
- Salt, lemon, or vinegar
Method
Soak the nuts in water for at least 10 hours.
Rinse them well and blend the walnuts and cashews with a little water (about 45 g) using a blender. Add the oil and a pinch of salt, but be careful not to overdo it. Continue mixing with a spoon. Once you've achieved the basic flavor and desired consistency, it's time to add a little acidity with a few teaspoons of lemon juice or a few drops of vinegar. Serve using a pastry cutter and decorate as desired!
With these delicious vegan alternatives, you can enjoy the taste and versatility of cheese without compromising your choice of a healthier, more eco-friendly lifestyle.
https://www.nucisitalia.it/noci-anacardi-e-pistacchi-5-curiosita-dal-mondo-della-frutta-secca/
https://www.vegolosi.it/ricette-vegane/ricotta-vegan-di-noci-macadamia/
https://www.cucina-naturale.it/come-lo-scelgo/dai-legumi-alla-frutta-secca-scopriamo-i-formaggi-vegan/
https://www.starbene.it/alimentazione/mangiare-sano/formaggi-vegetali-quali-sono/
