Easy "Cheesy" Alternative to Dairy

Nacho Mama’s Cheddar Cheese
(V/GF/R)

Going dairy-free is not as difficult as you think, especially when there are simple recipes like my “Nacho Mama’s Cheddar Cheese” (vegan/gluten-free/raw) available. And, you only need a blender to make it! Recently, I taught a raw foods preparation class at Harvest Health Foods, Hudsonville. Almost ninety people attended and gave this cheese dip their collective stamp of approval. I’m sure you will too!

Nacho Mama’s Cheddar Cheese

(v/gf/r)

Makes 2 cups

1 1/2 C Cashews, raw and soaked

1/4 C EVOO

1 Red bell pepper, seeded

1/8 C Nutritional yeast

1/2 Onion

1-3 Garlic cloves

3 T Lemon juice

1 T Sesame seeds or tahini, raw

1/8 C Sprouts

1/2 t Mustard powder

1/2 t Paprika

1/4 t Turmeric

1/4 t Pepper, ground

Purified water or rejuvelac to thin to desired consistency

Sea salt to taste

Preparation:

Place raw cashews in a bowl, cover with filtered water and let soak for 4-6 hours. Drain and discard water. DO NOT — USE SOAKING WATER. Place all ingredients in a blender and blend until creamy. Thin to desired consistency with water or rejuvelac. Add sea salt to taste. Serve with flax crax and/or with cut vegetables.

Ingredients available at D&W Fresh Market.