Can I make vegan Parmesan cheese without nuts if I have allergies?

Yes, you can make a nut-free version of vegan Parmesan cheese using seeds like sunflower, pumpkin (pepitas), or hemp seeds. These seeds provide a similar texture and a slightly different but pleasant flavor. Make sure to toast them lightly for extra flavor before blending with nutritional yeast and seasonings. This option is safe for those with tree nut allergies and still works well as a topping on pasta, salads, or popcorn.

How should I store vegan Parmesan cheese and how long does it last?

Vegan Parmesan cheese should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator, where it will stay fresh for about 3 to 4 weeks. For longer storage, you can freeze it for up to 3 months. Avoid keeping it at room temperature to prevent spoilage, especially since homemade versions don’t contain preservatives.

Does vegan Parmesan cheese melt like traditional Parmesan?

Vegan Parmesan cheese typically does not melt like traditional Parmesan. Instead, it has a slightly gritty or powdery texture that adds flavor and nuttiness when sprinkled on dishes. While it won't become gooey or stretchy in sauces, it works excellently in recipes like pesto, pasta toppings, and salad dressings.

Can I soak cashews before making vegan Parmesan cheese?

It is best to use dry cashews rather than soaked for vegan Parmesan cheese to achieve the correct fine, powdery texture. Soaking cashews introduces moisture, which can make the mixture clump or become paste-like. If you choose to soak, be sure to dehydrate or thoroughly dry them before use to maintain the powdery consistency.

What can I use instead of nutritional yeast if I want a yeast-free vegan Parmesan?

If you need a yeast-free vegan Parmesan, you can substitute nutritional yeast with ingredients such as toasted ground sunflower seeds or add a small amount of white miso paste to replicate the savory, umami flavor. Another option is to combine ground flaxseeds or hemp seeds with garlic powder and salt for depth. Adjust seasoning to taste, as these alternatives won't fully replace nutritional yeast’s cheesy flavor but provide a tasty alternative.

Vegan Parmesan Cheese Recipe That Tastes Like Real Cheese

Name: vegan parmesan cheese
Prep time: PT-486696H38M40S
Total time: PT-486696H33M40S
Cuisine: Vegan
Ingredients: 3/4 cup raw cashews; 3 tablespoons nutritional yeast flakes; 3/4 teaspoon sea salt; 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder; lemon juice for brightness; white miso paste; plant-based milk

Description

🥜 Experience the rich, cheesy flavor of parmesan with this easy-to-make vegan parmesan cheese recipe that’s perfect for dairy-free diets.
🌱 This versatile vegan alternative enhances pasta, pizza, salads, and more while being quick to prepare and long-lasting.

Ingredients

Scale

3/4 cup raw cashews

3 tablespoons nutritional yeast flakes

3/4 teaspoon sea salt

1/4 teaspoon garlic powder

lemon juice for brightness

white miso paste

plant-based milk

Instructions

Gather ingredients: Prepare raw cashews, nutritional yeast, garlic powder, sea salt, and lemon juice. Use fresh, raw nuts for best results.

Process cashews: Place cashews in a food processor or high-speed blender. Pulse until the cashews resemble a fine meal similar to grated parmesan.

Add seasonings: Add nutritional yeast, garlic powder, sea salt, and lemon juice into the blender. Pulse several times to incorporate flavors evenly without overprocessing into a paste.

Taste and adjust: Check flavor. Add more nutritional yeast for cheesiness, lemon juice for brightness, or salt if needed.

Make dietary swaps if needed: Substitute cashews with seeds for allergies or reduce salt for low sodium.

Store properly: Transfer to an airtight container. Use immediately as a topping or refrigerate up to two weeks.

Freeze for longer storage: Portion into small containers and freeze for up to three months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before use.

Use versatile: Sprinkle on pasta, salads, soups, roasted veggies, tofu, or even popcorn. It does not melt like dairy parmesan but adds savory flavor and texture.

Notes

🌰 Use raw, dry cashews for the best powdery texture; avoid soaking to prevent paste consistency.
⚙️ Pulse ingredients just enough to achieve a fine meal texture and avoid overprocessing.
🍕 Use this vegan parmesan as a topping on pasta, pizza, salads, soups, roasted vegetables, and popcorn for added flavor.

Prep Time: 5 minutes
Optional steaming time (for firm version): 35-45 minutes plus overnight chilling
Cook Time: 0 minutes (no cooking required for basic version)
Category: Condiment
Method: Blending or steaming
Cuisine: Vegan

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 tablespoon
Calories: 44
Sugar: 0 g
Sodium: 92 mg
Fat: 3 g
Saturated Fat: 0.6 g
Unsaturated Fat: 2 g
Trans Fat: 0 g
Carbohydrates: 3 g
Fiber: 0.7 g
Protein: 1.8 g
Cholesterol: 0 mg

Keywords: Vegan, Parmesan, Cheese, Dairy-Free