In the ever evolving world of plant based eating, one dairy free alternative that has captured the hearts and taste buds of many is the delectable Cashew Camembert. This soft, creamy, and tangy vegan cheese is a must try for anyone looking to explore the delicious possibilities of dairy free cheese making.
Ingredients for Homemade Cashew Camembert:
- 2 cups raw cashews, soaked in water for at least 4 hours or overnight
- 1/4 cup filtered water
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon sea salt
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 tablespoon nutritional yeast
- 1 probiotic capsule (or 1/2 teaspoon vegan cheese culture)
Instructions for Making Cashew Camembert:
- Soak the Cashews: Place the raw cashews in a bowl and cover with water. Soak for at least 4 hours or up to overnight, until the cashews are soft and plump.
- Blend the Cashew Mixture: Drain and rinse the soaked cashews. Add them to a high-speed blender or food processor along with the 1/4 cup of filtered water, lemon juice, sea salt, garlic powder, onion powder, and nutritional yeast. Blend until the mixture is smooth and creamy, scraping down the sides as needed.
- Culture the Cheese: Open the probiotic capsule (or use the vegan cheese culture) and sprinkle the contents into the blended cashew mixture. Stir or pulse the mixture briefly to incorporate the culture.
- Shape and Age the Cheese: Line a small round container or mold with a piece of cheesecloth or muslin. Scoop the cashew mixture into the prepared container, pressing it down gently to remove any air pockets. Cover the top with the excess cheesecloth or muslin and secure it with a rubber band or string.
- Age the Cashew Camembert: Place the covered cheese in a warm, dark place (like a cupboard or a dedicated cheese aging cabinet) and let it age for 5-10 days, depending on your desired level of tanginess and firmness. During this time, flip the cheese daily and gently press down to help it maintain its shape.
- Enjoy Your Homemade Cashew Camembert: After the aging process, your Cashew Camembert is ready to enjoy! Carefully remove the cheese from the mold and peel off the cheesecloth or muslin. The cheese should have a soft, spreadable texture and a delightful tangy flavor.
Cashew Camembert is a versatile vegan cheese that can be used in a variety of ways. Serve it on a cheese board with crackers, bread, and your favorite accompaniments, or use it as a creamy base for sauces, dips, and even baked dishes like vegan quiche or mac and cheese. The beauty of homemade Cashew Camembert lies in its simplicity and customizability. You can experiment with different seasonings, herbs, and even add ins to create your own unique version of this delectable dairy free cheese.
And don’t forget the perfect pairing – a bottle of your favorite wine! The rich, creamy texture of the Cashew Camembert and the complexity of a good wine make for an indulgent and satisfying experience. Bon Appetit!
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Questions And Answers:
- What are the main ingredients in Cashew Camembert? The main ingredients in Cashew Camembert are raw cashews, water, probiotics or a vegan starter culture, and various seasonings such as garlic, herbs, and lemon juice.
- How is Cashew Camembert different from traditional dairy-based Camembert? Cashew Camembert is a completely plant-based and dairy-free alternative to traditional Camembert cheese. It is made by culturing and aging a blend of soaked cashews and seasonings, rather than using dairy products like milk and cream.
- What are the health benefits of Cashew Camembert? Cashew Camembert is a nutritious vegan cheese option, as cashews are a great source of healthy fats, protein, and essential vitamins and minerals. It is also free of cholesterol and lactose, making it a suitable choice for those with dietary restrictions or preferences.
- How long does the process of making Cashew Camembert take? The process of making Cashew Camembert can take several days to a few weeks, depending on the desired level of ripeness and flavor development. The cashews need to be soaked, blended, and then cultured, which can take anywhere from a few days to a couple of weeks.
- How can Cashew Camembert be used in recipes? Cashew Camembert is a versatile vegan cheese that can be used in a variety of recipes. It can be served as a standalone cheese on a charcuterie board, used as a spread on crackers or bread, or incorporated into dishes such as mac and cheese, lasagna, or even baked into a vegan quiche.