Imagine a cream cheese so luxuriously smooth, so incredibly flavorful, that you won't believe it's completely dairy-free! Our Herbed Cashew Cream Cheese is about to revolutionize your plant-based spread game, delivering a tantalizing blend of herbs and rich, creamy texture that will make your taste buds dance with joy. Whether you're a committed vegan, a curious foodie, or simply looking to explore exciting new culinary horizons, this recipe is your ticket to a mind-blowing, guilt-free indulgence that proves healthy eating can be absolutely delicious.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: -
Total Time: 15 mins
Cuisine: Vegan
Serves: 8 servings
Ingredients
- 1 cup raw cashews, soaked
- 1/4 cup nutritional yeast
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 garlic clove
- 1 teaspoon dried herbs (thyme, oregano, or basil)
- Salt to taste
- Water as needed for consistency
Instructions
- Soak raw cashews in hot water for at least 2 hours or overnight to soften completely. If short on time, you can use boiling water and soak for 30 minutes.
- Drain the soaked cashews thoroughly and rinse under cool water to remove excess starch.
- Place the softened cashews in a high-speed blender or food processor.
- Add nutritional yeast, fresh lemon juice, peeled garlic clove, dried herbs, and a pinch of salt to the cashews.
- Blend the ingredients on high speed, stopping periodically to scrape down the sides of the blender.
- Gradually add small amounts of water, about 1-2 tablespoons at a time, to achieve a smooth, creamy consistency. The texture should be similar to soft cream cheese.
- Taste and adjust seasonings, adding more salt, herbs, or lemon juice as needed to enhance the flavor profile.
- Transfer the cream cheese to an airtight container and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow flavors to meld and texture to firm up.
- Serve chilled as a spread on bagels, crackers, or use as a dip. The cream cheese will keep in the refrigerator for 5-7 days.
Tips
- Soaking is Key: For the smoothest possible texture, plan ahead and soak your cashews overnight. If you're short on time, use boiling water to speed up the softening process.
- Blend Like a Pro: Use a high-speed blender or powerful food processor to achieve that ultra-creamy consistency. Don't rush – take your time blending and scraping down the sides.
- Customize Your Herbs: While the recipe suggests thyme, oregano, or basil, feel free to experiment with your favorite herb combinations or fresh herbs for an extra flavor punch.
- Consistency Matters: Add water gradually to control the thickness. The goal is a spreadable texture similar to traditional cream cheese.
- Flavor Enhancement: Taste and adjust seasonings before chilling. A little extra nutritional yeast can add more depth, while more lemon juice can brighten the flavor.
- Chill for Success: Refrigerating for at least an hour allows the flavors to meld and the texture to firm up, resulting in a more authentic cream cheese experience.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 120kcal
Carbohydrates: 7g
Protein: 5g
Fat: 9g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 0mg
