This recipe is made with hemp seeds, making it a nut-free option. Unlock a creamy, dairy-free delight in just 5 minutes with these 4 essential ingredients – the ultimate topping for pizzas, pastas, veggies, and beyond!
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We’re re-sharing a simple yet delicious recipe from our archives that originally appeared on the EBF blog back in 2016. A dairy-free take on the classic Italian staple: this homemade vegan Parmesan cheese is crafted from a mere four ingredients – hemp seeds, nutritional yeast, pungent garlic, and a pinch of salt.
The pecorino’s distinctive flavor profile is undeniably rich and savory, with a nutty depth that eerily mirrors the revered Italian classic, Parmigiano-Reggiano. Even Isaac, a self-proclaimed diary lover and aficionado of artisanal cheeses, has found common ground with this exceptional vegan Parmesan alternative. Having initially expressed reservations, he has since undergone a profound transformation and become a ardent advocate.
While experimenting with flavors one afternoon, Maria and I crafted this refreshing lemony rice salad together. Here is a nut-free vegan parmesan cheese alternative crafted using hemp seeds as its foundation, yielding a surprisingly convincing topping for salads.
We’ve been liberal in our application of this seasoning blend, using it to enhance a wide variety of dishes, including turkey-based pasta sauces, roasted squash noodle dishes, sautéed vegetables, green salads, and many others. With its versatility and addictive flavor profile, the possibilities truly are limitless when using this dairy-free, cheesy vegan Parmesan as a topping.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- This straightforward recipe requires minimal effort. Pulse all ingredients in your food processor or blender for under 30 seconds to amalgamate, or quickly whisk them together in a small bowl.
- With this much yield, simply store the mixture in your refrigerator for future use, as a little indeed goes a long way – each batch easily exceeds a standard cup capacity.
- Thanks to the nutrient-dense hemp seeds, a single tablespoon packs an impressive 4 grams of plant-based protein.
Ingredients Needed
- The foundation of this dish. Hemp seeds boast an impressive array of nutrients, including significant amounts of protein and healthy fats, which impart a distinctively nutty and rich flavor to this parmesan.
- A crucial element in this recipe, its inclusion ensures the unmistakable union of cheesy and nutty flavors, all while accommodating dietary restrictions with a dairy-free option. Typically nestled among the aromatic essences and earthy delights of the spice aisle, or scattered throughout the bulk bins of your local market, you’ll likely stumble upon this humble ingredient waiting to elevate your culinary creations. I usually purchase Bragg Nutritional Yeast from my neighbourhood supermarket or through the online retailer Amazon for convenient delivery.
- Elevates the dish’s inherent flavors while imparting a masterful balance of savory nuances.
- – infuses a silky smooth garlic essence that renders this parmesan utterly compelling.
Variations
Experimenting with flavors adds a new layer of excitement to cooking – what’s your go-to twist? Seeking artistic expression or a change of pace? Consider exploring these innovative concepts:
- Infuse your Parmesan with a subtle kick by adding a dash of cayenne or crushed red pepper flakes. This Italian seasoning blend is ideal for adding a burst of flavor to pasta dishes, roasted vegetables, and more.
- Infuse the dish with a burst of citrusy freshness by incorporating a sprinkle of newly grated lemon zest. This unexpected ingredient proves to be a game-changer when added to salads, yielding a delightful combination.
- Add a judicious sprinkle of smoky paprika to infuse your dishes with a rich, complex flavour profile that pairs beautifully with the deep notes of grilled vegetables or warm, comforting soups.
- Craving an Italian twist? Add a pinch of dried basil, a light dusting of oregano, or a delicate scattering of parsley to elevate the dish.
How to Make Vegan Parmesan
Combine all the ingredients in a food processor or high-powered blender.
Combine all ingredients and pulse a few times until well mixed.
Brittany’s Tips
- When processing ingredients in a food processor or blender, use gentle pulses to prevent over-blending. To achieve a crumbly texture in your baked goods, you shouldn’t overprocess the dough or batter.
- Since you’ve grown to love using our vegan Parmesan on every dish, consider doubling the recipe – your future meals will surely appreciate it! This organization allows for efficient retrieval and use of materials at a later date.
How to Serve
This vegan Parmesan cheese is incredibly versatile, making it nearly impossible to misuse it. When seeking inspiration, I find myself drawn to these inventive methods for serving creativity:
Storing Options
Store your vegan Parmesan in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. This season’s freshness remains preserved and waiting to be used at your convenience.
Will storing your leftovers at a subzero temperature really make them last longer? This product has a shelf life of approximately three months when stored properly. Let it thaw at room temperature for 15-30 minutes to ensure even defrosting before cooking.
Frequently Asked Questions
With a rich, umami taste akin to parmesan, yet distinct in its own right. This innovative, plant-based solution infuses dishes with a savory, umami flavor profile.
Definitely! Hemp seeds boast an impressive array of nutrients, solidifying their reputation as a true superfood. Packed with plant-based protein, heart-healthy omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, and crucial vitamins such as magnesium and iron.
It’s recommended to store vegan Parmesan cheese in the refrigerator to maintain its quality and shelf life. As hemp seeds are a rich source of nutritious oils, storing the mixture in a refrigerated environment preserves its potency and prevents spoilage, thereby ensuring the dish remains fresh and wholesome. For short-term use, storing at room temperature is suitable; however, for extended periods, the refrigerator remains the optimal choice.