The use of nuts in vegan cooking

For many people, the main struggle in becoming vegan is letting go of dairy products. Cheese, milk, butter, and cream are often staples in people’s favorite foods, and it can seem like vegans are deprived of those foods. However, there are many ways to use nuts and seeds to create vegan alternatives to dairy products. Here are some quick recipes to make your dishes more decadent and delicious!

Nut Milk:

Ingredients:

• 1 cup of peeled nuts (soaked for 6 hours in room temperature water) (almonds, cashews, or peeled and grated coconut)
• 2 cups of water
• Maple syrup (optional and to taste)

Instructions:

• Blend the ingredients together in a high-speed blender till smooth.
• If desired, strain with a fine strainer or a cheesecloth for a silkier consistency.
• Enjoy with cereal, fruits, granola, or add to other recipes that call for milk.

Cashew Cheese:

Ingredients:

• 1 cup cashews (soaked for 6 hours in room temperature water)
• 1 serrano pepper
• 1 garlic clove
• Water to blend (to desired consistency)
• 1 tsp maple syrup (if not vegan, you can use honey)
• Salt to taste
• Juice from half a lemon

Instructions:

• Preheat oven to 400 Fahrenheit
•  Grease the serrano pepper with a little bit of coconut oil and roast in the oven for 5-7 minutes or till blistered.
• Take the stem out of the pepper and add it to the blender with the other ingredients. 
• Blend till smooth, and enjoy. Add more water as needed. 
• Use on pizza, in quesadillas, pasta, and more.