In the present day, turning vegan does not deprive you of the joys of milk-based products. There are various non-dairy milk products on the market. These are not only delicious but also healthy. In effect, one such product is vegan goat cheese.

Isn’t it amazing to have a cheese similar in flavour to that of a goat? 

As the name suggests this cheese is an alternative to goat cheese which is a dairy product. However, it is tangy and crumbly just like actual goat cheese. All in all, the difference is that it is made of crushed cashew nuts. 

If you love the flavour and taste of goat cheese, you should definitely try this less fattening option. Cashew nuts are great to reduce bad cholesterol or LDL (Low-Density Lipoprotein). Adding to it, they also have high magnesium content which can prevent heart diseases.

As a matter of fact, this cheese is healthy and nutritious with lower fat and almost zero bad cholesterol. This cheese balances the rich and creamy texture of goat cheese with the health benefits of non-dairy milk. In addition, if you want to make this cheese a healthier option, go for tofu. To clarify, cashew nuts might cause constipation or weight gain. Therefore, you can replace it with tofu which is a healthier alternative.  

When you consume vegan cheese, it is best to go for the least processed option. When you take it in moderation, it can be a great add-on to your healthy vegan diet.  

You can season your salads and crackers with this cheese to add an extra tang to them. All in all, as a vegan, you will love the idea of having a healthy and delectable cheese in your diet. The recipe to make this cheese will turn into an absolute favourite!

 

What Is Vegan Goat Cheese?

In simple words, vegan goat cheese is a cheese similar in taste to that of a goat. But dissimilar in its constituent ingredients. To clarify, it is a non-dairy alternative to goat cheese. It tries to retain the flavour and taste of goat cheese but also provides better health benefits. It is lower in fat and calorie than actual goat cheese. 

In addition, if you stand against animal cruelty, you might prefer it over its dairy counterpart. This cheese is made of tofu or cashew, coconut oil, potato starch and tahini. Another thing to note is that it is free from animal-based carcinogens. When made at home, it is the least processed and a healthy cheese option.

All in all, it is better to make it at home. In effect, homemade cheese is easily digestible because it lacks preservatives. As a vegan, it is necessary to keep a watch on the ingredients used. If the ingredients are animal-based, you fail in practising veganism. 

Veganism is not just a diet but a lifestyle. As a matter of fact, you should be aware of what constitutes your food. On the contrary, this does not mean you need to give up on mouth-watering food such as goat cheese. This healthier alternative will follow the criteria of a vegan diet and also be a treat to your tongue.

 

What Can You Do With Vegan Goat Cheese?

Vegan goat cheese is spreadable and easy to use as an appetiser or side dish. In other words, it can be used as a seasoning on salads or crackers. On the other hand, it can also be used as a spread. You can enjoy a crispy bite of toast with a spread of this cheese.

A high-protein salad with a seasoning of this cheese as a brunch would be quite healthy.

The most interesting part is, that even if you are not a vegan, you can use it as a part to meet your fitness goals. Crumble it up and add it to your pizza. As a matter of fact, the taste and flavour of this cheese can vary according to your preference. It could be salty and creamy and tangy and soft. 

Apricot jam is another great option to have your cheese with. Other great companions of this cheese are walnuts and grapes. It could be a part of your morning breakfast or brunch. Consuming this cheese can also be a part of healthy snacking. In effect, whenever you crave the taste and softness of cream, you know what is the best option for you!

 

Ingredients and Substitutions

To prepare this super healthy and light cheese, you need some basic ingredients. However, these ingredients can be replaced with other options. To clarify, you can choose ingredients according to your taste or health motives. This recipe does not take much time and is simple. The following ingredients are all that you need for this nutritious non-dairy cheese:

 

• 7 oz of Tofu: Do not use silken or high-protein tofu. You need firm or extra firm tofu, instead. Drain the tofu and press it well. As a substitute, you can use thick cashew cream. In effect, it is a soy-free option.

 

• ¼ cup of Refined Coconut Oil: This ingredient will give the cheese its texture. However, there is no substitute for this. If you use non-refined oil, it will give your cheese an unwanted coconut flavour.

 

• 1 Tablespoon of Nutritional Yeast: This gives a cheesy flavour.

 

• 1 Teaspoon of Lemon Juice: It is responsible for the signature tangy flavour.

 

• ½  Teaspoon of Apple Cider Vinegar: This will provide a distinct flavour to the cheese.

 

• 1 Teaspoon of Tahini: It gives a similar taste to goat cheese. As a matter of fact, it is used a little amount for that mild, earthy flavour.

 

• ¾ Teaspoon of Salt

 

• 1 ½  Teaspoon of Potato Starch: You need to mix it with a little water. On the contrary, you can use cornstarch in its place. 

 

• 1 Teaspoon of White and Black Pepper: You can even use fresh parsley or basil to give your cheese an authentic flavour. This one is an important ingredient and should not be skipped.

 

• 2 Tablespoons of Cold Water

 

This cheese will be a versatile add-on to your vegan diet or even a party brunch! By following some simple steps, you can prepare this delicacy.

 

Tools Required

As a matter of fact, you do not need to worry about any extra tools. The tools required to make vegan goat cheese are already in your kitchen. Analogous to this fact, if you do not have them, you can get them from a grocery store near you. Here is all that you need for this creamy delight:

 

• Immersion Blender: To blend your cheese and get a smooth texture, an immersion blender would be the best option. On the other hand, if you don’t have it, you can use a high-speed blender too. When using the latter, you will have to stop and scrape the sides for it to be a perfect blend. 

 

• Saucepan: You can use any saucepan. But it is better to use one with a heavy bottom. This will ensure that your cheese is evenly cooked.

 

• A Piece of Parchment Paper: It might sound fancy but even plastic wrap will do. You need it to wrap your cheese and mould it in the desired shape.

 

• A Rubber Spatula: You need it to stir the cheese while it heats. It is better to use a rubber spatula since the cheese will not stick to it or burn while stirring.

 

As you can see, this recipe does not require a lot of tools. If you have these, you can move to the steps to prepare the vegan cheese.

 

Vegan Goat Cheese: Step-by-Step Recipe

Here is a step-by-step guide to preparing your non-dairy goat cheese. These steps are not very complicated. Anyone who wishes to retain the tangy flavour of goat cheese can try this healthy alternative. You need to pay attention to each detail while following these steps.

 

• Step 1: Add your tofu, nutritional yeast, melted coconut vinegar, lemon juice, salt and tahini to a saucepan. Now blend all of these with your immersion blender.
• Step 2: Add your potato starch to water and stir. After this, add it to your tofu blend and blend it again till it becomes creamy.
• Step 3: Now add this mixture to a saucepan with a heavy body. Cook it for 5 minutes on medium heat. Remember to stir it constantly using a rubber spatula.
• Step 4: Once the consistency is thick and the mixture is heated, cool it down. You have to keep it for 15 minutes. In effect, pour it on parchment paper and form a cylindrical shape.
• Step 5: Now wrap the cheese in your parchment paper and place it in the fridge for 3 hours.
• Step 6: Now you can take it out of the fridge and roll it in black and white peppercorns. On the other hand, you can also use dried cranberries or herbs of your choice.

 

Here is all you need to do to make this delicious and flavourful cheese. You should definitely try it and treat your loved ones. This versatile cheese could be used for party appetisers or on a daily basis. On the other hand, it is best to limit its consumption to watch your consumption since it has refined oil which is processed.

 

Serving Suggestions, Storing and Freezing and Recipe Tips

As you know, this vegan goat cheese is a lovely appetiser. It is extremely versatile and can go with your crunchy toast or with your salad seasoning. If you like the flavour of a tangy dressing, you can even use it in your salad dressing. 

A spinach and cherry salad with pieces of vegan cheese is such a mouth-watering option. You can serve it at parties and to guests with lemons, walnuts and crackers. A cracker with a slice of apricot jam and seasoning of this vegan cheese would definitely bring heaven to you. In addition, you can use it as pizza cheese. In effect, it is a pleasure to the taste buds when it is baked.

To store your cheese, you need to refrigerate it. It stays good for around 5 days. Make sure you wrap it tightly with plastic or parchment paper. Otherwise, there are chances of change in taste and smell. On the other hand, if you plan to deep freeze it, you should be ready for a slight change in texture. To clarify, it will become less creamy. 

The duration for which it can be frozen is 3 months. On the contrary, it is best to have it fresh. Deep freezing might even hamper its goodness in context to health.

When you prepare this cheese, it is best to use fresh ground pepper. It gives a better flavour. In addition, before blending the tofu let it warm up on the countertop. This way the coconut oil will not solidify when added. You can drizzle a little agave nectar or vegan honey. All in all, if you make it at least one or two days before you consume it, the ingredients settle better. These are some smart tips to ace this recipe.

 

Nutritional Information

The amount of ingredients used for the recipe serves up to eight people. As per its nutritional profile, it is way better than the processed vegan goat cheese on the market. The amount per serving is assumed to be 2 tablespoons. Here is the nutritional information with regard to a daily value requirement. Please note that the daily requirement is based on 2000 calories per day diet.

 

• Total Fat: 8%
• Sodium 10%
• Carbohydrates 0%
• Fibre: 4%
• Sugar: 1%
• Protein: 6%
• Vitamin A: 0%
• Vitamin C: 1%
• Calcium: 3%
• Iron: 6%
• Total Calories: 88kcal
• Saturated Fat (from the total fat): 38%

 

The vegan cheese is free from animal-based carcinogenic constituents and growth hormones. It is also free from saturated animal facts. In effect, if you decide to make it at home, it acts as a cherry on top. The above is the nutrition profile of unprocessed homemade goat cheese. It is low in sugar and carbohydrates which makes it a great option to meet your fitness goals.

 

FAQs

What Is Vegan Goat Cheese Made Of?

This cheese is made of cashew nuts or tofu with coconut oil and salt. It might contain some non-dairy kinds of milk as well. The ingredients used in the recipe vary according to personal taste and preference. For instance, you might prefer a less tangy taste or a creamy texture. If you prefer a salty taste, choose ingredients high in salt. It depends on the varied flavour range of the cheese. Some people prefer a soy-free option so they would prefer cashew cream in place of soy milk. This cheese can have different constituent ingredients. In effect, you should know that it is quite versatile. 

 

What Is A Good Vegan Substitute For Goat Cheese?

If you are lactose intolerant or allergic to dairy products, tofu is a great replacement for you. It is the coagulation of soy milk and is known as bean curd. After a process of pressing it acquires a similar texture to that of goat cheese. As a matter of fact, vegan goat cheese has tofu as one of the ingredients. Therefore, if you love goat cheese, you can relish its taste through a non-dairy option. The only thing to learn is the process to make it. In addition, you should be careful enough to choose ingredients which are non-allergens.

 

Is Chevre Vegan?

Chevre is another name for goat cheese. It is made from goat’s milk. In effect, it might be counted as vegetarian food but is not vegan. Chevre is a french goat cheese which is a great source of selenium. That is to say, a mineral commonly found in seafood. Chevre is tart, tangy, bright and delicious. However, it is not something to opt for when looking for non-dairy cheese. On the other hand, there are possible ways to recreate the signature Chevre flavour for vegans. As a matter of fact, there are recipes which help you recreate your dairy favourites. 

 

How Can Goat Cheese Be Vegetarian?

If we take the traditional French goat cheese into consideration, it might contain animal rennet. This as a matter of fact is an enzyme derived from the fourth stomach of an unweaned calf. On the other hand, British goat cheese and other modern options are vegetarian. As a matter of fact, some of Chevre might be suitable for vegetarians. It is best to check the ingredients while you buy your goat cheese. As a matter of fact, most of the modern options don’t have animal rennet. In effect, it is safe to say that goat cheese is vegetarian to an extent.

 

Why Is Goat Cheese Unhealthy?

Goat cheese is a dairy product which contains high amounts of fat. It might also have more sodium which makes it unhealthy. On the contrary, when compared to cheese made from cow’s milk, it might be healthier. As a matter of fact, you should avoid its consumption if you wish to lose weight. If you are a non-vegan and love goat cheese, it is better to have it in moderation. On the other hand, it is a good source of vitamins and minerals and healthy fats. In effect, its nutritional profile is beneficial. All in all, it is healthy.

 

Is Goat Cheese Inflammatory?

The great thing about goat cheese is that it has anti-inflammatory properties. In effect, while most cheese should be avoided when following an anti-inflammatory diet, goat cheese can be consumed. Goat milk has unique fatty acids which we associate with anti-inflammatory properties. All in all, the products made from goat’s milk are easily digestible than those with any other milk. In effect, you do not have to worry about inflammation caused by goat cheese. In fact, you can opt for it as a part of an anti-inflammatory diet. It will digest better and easier than its other contemporaries.

 

Can People Who Don’t Eat Dairy Eat Goat Cheese?

Goat cheese is a dairy product for the reason that goat milk is used in the making. As a matter of fact, the answer to the question is no. If you are allergic to dairy products, don’t consume goat milk or any of its products. It is a common notion that only cow milk is dairy. In other words, some people only associate cow milk products with dairy products. On the other hand, humans domesticate a number of animals for dairy. For instance, cows, sheep, goats and buffalo among others. Don’t opt for goat cheese if you don’t eat dairy.

 

In Conclusion

To sum up, vegan goat cheese is one of the best products which are part of the booming vegan food market. According to a study, the vegan cheese market was valued at USD 2.43 billion in 2021 which has expanded ever since. In effect, with most people turning vegan and embracing the concept, vegan cheese has an eminent place. 

Vegan goat cheese is healthy, cruelty-free and also delicious. You can play with a variety of flavours and tastes as per your preference. It is close to natural goat cheese in its tangy and creamy texture. On the other hand, you should not indulge in overconsumption.

In addition, it is quite versatile. For instance, you can add it as a seasoning or use it as a spread. The version of processed cheese from the market is not as healthy as homemade. If you follow veganism, it is best to make your cheese at home. With certain simple steps, it is possible to make this non-dairy cheese. It is easily digestible, and lower in fat and carbohydrates than its dairy counterpart. If you want to balance the joys of having tasty cheese with the benefits of vegan food, you should definitely try it! 

Do you like non-dairy products? Have you ever tried vegan goat cheese? Let us know your thoughts in the comments section below!