Are you tired of searching for that perfect plant-based alternative to your favorite dairy-based smoked gouda? Look no further, as this comprehensive guide will lead you on a journey through some of the most delicious and mouthwatering vegan smoked gouda options. With an ever-growing array of non-dairy cheese products, we’re here to help you find the best of the best.
Let’s dive into some of the best vegan smoked gouda choices available on the market today:
1. Daiya – Smoked Gouda Style Block
Daiya is a well-known brand in the vegan community, famous for their wide variety of dairy-free products. Their smoked gouda style block is no exception:
- Taste: A rich, smoky flavor reminiscent of traditional smoked gouda.
- Texture: Smooth and creamy with a slight firmness that melts beautifully when heated.
- Ingredients: Made from coconut oil and tapioca starch, Daiya’s smoked gouda is soy-free and gluten-free.
- Uses: Perfect for melting on sandwiches or pizza, shredding into salads, or enjoying straight out of the package.
2. Follow Your Heart – Smoked Gouda Slices
As pioneers in the plant-based industry, Follow Your Heart never disappoints with their innovative and tasty products. Their smoked gouda slices are a must-try:
- Taste: A slightly tangy and savory flavor profile with mild smokiness.
- Texture: These pre-sliced pieces have a velvety texture that melts evenly when heated.
- Ingredients: Crafted from coconut oil and potato starch, these slices are both soy-free and gluten-free.
- Uses: Ideal for stacking on sandwiches or burgers, layering in a panini, or melting on top of a casserole.
3. Violife – Smoked Gouda Flavour Slices
A leading brand in the vegan cheese scene, Violife offers a delicious smoked gouda option that is sure to delight your taste buds:
- Taste: A mild smoky flavor combined with the characteristic tang of gouda.
- Texture: Soft and smooth slices that melt seamlessly when heated.
- Ingredients: Made from coconut oil and starch, these slices are free from soy and gluten.
- Uses: Enjoy them straight out of the package, melted onto toast, or incorporated into your favorite recipes.
How to Make Your Own Vegan Smoked Gouda at Home
If you’re feeling adventurous and want to create your own vegan smoked gouda masterpiece, we’ve got you covered. Here’s a simple recipe to get you started:
Ingredients
- 1 ½ cups raw cashews (soaked overnight)
- ¼ cup tapioca starch
- 2 tbsp nutritional yeast
- 2 tbsp refined coconut oil (melted)
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- 1 tsp liquid smoke
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp onion powder
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- 1 cup water
Instructions
- Drain and rinse the soaked cashews thoroughly.
- In a high-speed blender, combine all ingredients and blend until completely smooth.
- Transfer the mixture to a saucepan and cook over medium heat, stirring constantly for about five minutes until it thickens into a stretchy consistency.
- Pour the mixture into a silicone mold or lined container and smooth the surface with a spatula.
- Refrigerate for at least four hours or overnight to set up.
You can then enjoy your homemade vegan smoked gouda by slicing it, grating it, or even melting it on top of your favorite dishes.
How to Pair Vegan Smoked Gouda
Now that you’ve discovered some of the best vegan smoked gouda options, let’s explore a few ways to pair them with other foods and beverages:
Food Pairings
- Combine vegan smoked gouda with fresh fruits like apples, grapes, or pears for a delightful snack.
- Add a smoky twist to your salads by tossing in crumbled or shredded vegan smoked gouda.
- Create an indulgent vegan cheese board by pairing smoked gouda with crackers, olives, and other plant-based cheeses.
Beverage Pairings
- A crisp white wine such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio compliments the smokiness of vegan smoked gouda.
- For beer lovers, try an amber ale or a lager as they tend to pair well with the flavors of smoked gouda.
- Non-alcoholic options include sparkling water with lemon or iced tea infused with fruity flavors.
In conclusion, finding the best vegan smoked gouda is no longer a daunting task. With plenty of delicious store-bought options and even the possibility to make your own at home, there’s something for everyone. So go ahead – get adventurous and indulge in some scrumptious plant-based smoked gouda today!