Easy Vegan Smoked Cheddar Block Perfect for Slicing & Melting 🔥🧀
Ingredients:
1 cup / 150g raw cashews, soaked for at least 4 hours or overnight (or boiled 15 mins)
1/4 cup / 60ml water (plus more if needed)
1/4 cup / 20g nutritional yeast
2 tbsp / 30ml refined coconut oil, melted (use refined to avoid coconut flavor)
1 tbsp / 15ml lemon juice
1 tsp smoked paprika
1 tsp onion powder
1/2 tsp garlic powder
1/2 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
1 1/2 tsp agar-agar powder (not flakes)
Optional: 1/4 tsp liquid smoke for extra smoky flavor
Directions:
1. Drain and rinse the soaked cashews thoroughly.
2. Lightly oil a small container or mold (e.g., small loaf pan, glass container) for the cheese to set in.
3. In a high-speed blender, combine the drained cashews, 1/4 cup water, nutritional yeast, melted coconut oil, lemon juice, smoked paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, and salt. Blend until completely smooth and creamy, scraping down the sides as needed. Add a tiny bit more water only if necessary to get it blending smoothly.
4. Taste the mixture and adjust seasonings if needed (more salt, paprika, lemon).
5. Pour the cashew mixture into a small saucepan. Sprinkle the agar-agar powder evenly over the surface.
6. Whisk the agar-agar into the mixture until fully combined. Add liquid smoke now, if using.
7. Heat the mixture over medium heat, whisking constantly. Bring it to a gentle simmer and continue to cook, whisking constantly, for 2-3 minutes. The mixture will thicken significantly.
8. Quickly pour the thickened cheese mixture into the prepared oiled container. Smooth the top with a spatula.
9. Let it cool slightly at room temperature, then cover and refrigerate for at least 3-4 hours, or until completely firm and set.
10. Once firm, gently run a knife around the edges and invert the container to release the cheese block. Slice or grate as desired. Store wrapped in the refrigerator.
Recipe Information:
Preparation Time: 15 mins (plus soaking) | Cooking Time: 5 mins | Setting Time: 4 hrs | Total Time: 4 hrs 20 mins | Calories per Serving: Approx. 100 per oz | Number of Servings: Makes approx. 8 oz block
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