Pizza lovers everywhere rejoice as vegan alternatives for cheese continue to evolve and improve. Gone are the rubbery, tasteless, and barely melting vegan cheese options. Today, vegan cheese can be gooey, stretchy, and flavorful, and it can play a crucial role in accentuating pizza’s magnificence. In this article, we will explore some of the best vegan cheeses for pizza and delve deeper into how these plant-based options have finally made their mark in pizza toppings.
The origins of vegan cheese are undoubtedly rooted in the ever-growing demand for plant-based alternatives to dairy products. As more and more people opt for a vegan lifestyle, the craving for a perfect vegan cheese that not only mimics the flavor and texture of traditional cheese but also melts seamlessly on pizzas has increased. Chefs and home cooks have experimented with various ingredients, including cashews, almonds, soy, and tapioca, to create the ultimate vegan cheeses for pizza.
Key Takeaways
- Vegan cheese has evolved to provide gooey, stretchy, and flavorful options for pizza lovers.
- Various ingredients are now being used to perfect vegan cheese consistency and taste.
- Understanding the right combination of ingredients and melting properties is crucial for creating a quintessential vegan pizza experience.
Origins of Vegan Cheese
The journey of vegan cheese began as a response to the increasing demand for dairy-free and plant-based alternatives to traditional dairy products. With a growing awareness of health issues, environmental concerns, and ethics surrounding the consumption of animal products, many consumers began to seek out non-dairy options.
In the early days of vegan cheese development, scientists and food artisans faced several challenges in replicating the taste, texture, and meltability of dairy-based cheese. Early attempts often resulted in rubbery or slimy textures and off-flavors, but as the technology and techniques improved over time, so did the quality of vegan cheese offerings.
Nowadays, vegan cheese is made from various plant-based ingredients, including nuts (such as cashews), soy, and coconut oil. These ingredients are combined with various starches, emulsifiers, and gums to create a wide range of plant-based cheese products that closely mimic the taste and texture of their dairy counterparts.
Some popular vegan cheese alternatives for pizza include:
- Miyoko’s Liquid Vegan Pizza Mozzarella: a well-rounded choice made with organic cashew milk.
- Follow Your Heart Vegan Shredded Mozzarella: a more “junk food” style cheese, perfect for those who crave something akin to conventional dairy cheese.
- Violife Just Like Mozzarella Shreds: another popular alternative featuring a delicious and meltable texture.
- Daiya Mozzarella Style Shreds: widely available and known for familiar meltability.
- 365 Plant-Based Mozzarella-Style Cheese: a budget-friendly option for the everyday consumer.
With more companies entering the vegan cheese market, the quality and variety of plant-based cheese products continue to evolve and improve. Today, vegan cheese is no longer a niche item and can be found in many grocery stores and even atop pizzas at popular chains.
By offering an array of substitute options, the vegan cheese industry has made it easy for those seeking dairy-free alternatives and introduced new flavors and textures to the pizza world.
Making the Perfect Vegan Cheeses for Pizza
Creating the perfect vegan cheese for pizza at home can be an exciting and delicious experience. Homemade vegan cheeses are healthier and allow for customization based on personal preferences. This section will explore some key ingredients and simple processes to make vegan cheeses that elevate your pizza.
One of the primary ingredients for making vegan cheese is cashews. Opt for organic, raw cashews, which provide a creamy texture and neutral flavor when blended. Soak the cashews in water overnight for a few hours to soften them before blending. This will ensure a smoother consistency in the final product.
Nutritional yeast is another essential ingredient for making vegan cheese, giving it a cheesy flavor. Combine this with lemon juice, which adds a tangy kick and helps to thicken the mixture. Including garlic in the recipe not only adds flavor but can also provide additional nutritional benefits. Don’t hesitate to experiment with different nuts like almonds or macadamia for a unique taste and texture.
Cornstarch is a handy addition to your homemade vegan cheese, as it helps thicken the mixture, creating a more authentic cheese-like consistency. Another option for achieving a similar result is agar-agar, a vegan gelatin substitute derived from seaweed.
Here’s a simple process to make delicious homemade vegan cheese for your pizza:
- Soak raw cashews in water for at least 4 hours or overnight.
- Drain the soaked cashews and rinse them well.
- Blend the cashews with lemon juice, nutritional yeast, garlic, and other flavorings until smooth. Add water sparingly to achieve the desired consistency.
- Cook the blended mixture with cornstarch or agar-agar in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring constantly until it thickens.
- Let the mixture cool for a few minutes, and it’s ready to be used on your pizza.
Remember that homemade vegan cheese can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week. Making vegan cheese at home allows you to experiment with different flavors and textures. It creates a healthier, more environmentally friendly alternative to traditional dairy cheese for your pizza night.
Best Store-Bought Vegan Cheeses for Pizza
When finding the perfect vegan cheese for your pizza, several store-bought options can satisfy your cravings without compromising on taste and texture. The following are some of the top choices for vegan pizza cheeses:
Miyoko’s Liquid Vegan Pizza Mozzarella is a fantastic option for those looking to replicate traditional mozzarella’s authentic gooey, melty, and stretchy texture. Made with cashew milk, this mozzarella alternative bakes wonderfully on pizza and offers a rich, creamy taste.
Violife Just Like Mozzarella Shreds have a realistic appearance and texture, making them a great pizza choice. These shreds melt and brown beautifully, providing that familiar cheesy bite. Violife also offers tasty vegan cheddar and parmesan varieties that work well on pizza.
Follow Your Heart Vegan Shredded Mozzarella is another popular choice among vegan pizza lovers. The taste and texture of this dairy-free cheese are quite similar to traditional mozzarella. This cheese is made with tapioca flour and is also great for those seeking a gluten-free option.
Daiya Mozzarella Style Shreds has been a long-time favorite among the vegan community. Although they don’t mimic traditional mozzarella as closely as other options, their gooey and stretchy nature makes them perfect for pizza. Daiya also offers delicious vegan cheddar and gouda shreds that can add a unique twist to your pizza.
Field Roast Chao Creamy Original Slices are a versatile option that can be used for more than just pizza. These coconut-based slices feature a delicate, creamy taste similar to gouda. While not specifically designed for pizza, they melt well and provide a rich flavor that complements various pizza toppings.
365 Plant-Based Mozzarella-Style Cheese is an affordable, widely available option for delicious vegan cheese. It melts nicely on pizza and has a pleasant, mild flavor that suits many different types of pizza creations.
Remember, the best vegan cheese for your pizza ultimately comes from personal preference and experimentation with different brands and flavors. Try these store-bought options as you search for the perfect plant-based cheese to complement your vegan pizza. Happy pizza-making!
Understanding Cheese Melting for Pizza
Melting is a vital characteristic to consider when choosing the best vegan cheese for pizza. Traditional dairy cheese melts, stretches, and adds a delectable mouthfeel when heated, which you’d want to replicate with vegan cheese. A few factors must be considered to achieve the desired cheese pull and texture.
The Role of Heat
Heat plays a crucial role in melting cheese. Vegan cheeses need the right temperature, one that’s carefully balanced. Too low, and the cheese won’t melt or stretch. Too high, and the cheese might burn or become overly liquid. It’s essential to find the ideal heating range, usually between 400°F and 500°F, for vegan cheese to melt efficiently while incorporating into the other ingredients on the pizza.
Stretch and Consistency
Achieving the perfect cheese stretch and consistency is another critical factor in melting. Some vegan cheese alternatives incorporate tapioca starch, which helps emulate the stretchiness of traditional mozzarella. Like a classic grilled cheese sandwich, Tapioca starch contributes to a satisfying cheese pull.
Cheese Varieties for Melting
Different vegan cheese varieties offer unique reactions to heat. Choosing the right type of cheese is essential to obtaining the desired melting effect on your pizza. Some examples of vegan cheese ideal for pizza include:
- Miyoko’s Liquid Vegan Pizza Mozzarella: This cheese is known for its gourmet taste and impressive melting properties.
- Follow Your Heart Vegan Shredded Mozzarella: Known as the best junk food cheese, this option provides excellent melting and familiar mozzarella texture.
- Violife Just Like Mozzarella Shreds: These shreds are made from coconut oil and potato starch, melting to perfection under high heat.
By focusing on heat, stretch, and consistency, you should be able to select the ideal vegan cheese for pizza. As you can appreciate, obtaining that distinctive cheese pull and mouthfeel is achievable with the right vegan cheese alternative.
Nutrition Value and Health Benefits
Vegan cheese is a delicious alternative for individuals who follow plant-based diets and has several health benefits and essential nutrients. Below are some of the key nutritional aspects and health advantages of opting for vegan cheese on your pizza:
- Protein: Many vegan cheeses contain plant-based proteins like soya and potato protein, which provide essential amino acids required for various processes in the body, such as muscle building and tissue repair. Although the protein content may vary depending on the brand and ingredients used, consuming vegan cheese can help contribute to your daily protein intake.
- Calcium: Vegan cheeses often have calcium added to them, especially those made from plant-based milk like almond or soy milk. Calcium is crucial for strong bones, teeth, and the proper functioning of nerves and muscles. When selecting a vegan cheese for your pizza, look for one fortified with calcium to ensure you get enough of this critical nutrient.
- Vitamin B12: This essential nutrient is typically found in animal-derived products, but some vegan cheeses are fortified with vitamin B12, making them a valuable source for those on plant-based diets. Vitamin B12 is vital for red blood cell formation, proper nerve function, and DNA synthesis.
- Soya: As a base for several vegan cheeses, soya provides essential nutrients like protein, fiber, and healthy fats. It’s also known to help lower cholesterol levels, making it a heart-healthy alternative to traditional dairy cheese.
- Potato protein: Often found in vegan cheese, potato protein is a good source of essential amino acids. Besides contributing to overall protein intake, it is also an easily digestible protein source and works well for individuals with allergies or intolerances to soya.
- Citric acid: This organic acid, derived from citrus fruits, is commonly used as a natural preservative in vegan cheese recipes. Citric acid has several potential health benefits, such as helping to boost kidney function and improving nutrient absorption.
In summary, depending on the brand and ingredients, vegan cheese on your pizza can provide various nutritional benefits like protein, calcium, and vitamin B12. Plant-based proteins like soya and potato can promote muscle growth, while ingredients like citric acid can improve overall health. You’ll enjoy a delicious pizza and support your well-being by choosing vegan cheese.
Creating the Quintessential Vegan Pizza
To create the perfect vegan pizza, it’s important to consider every aspect of the pizza-making process, starting with the dough and sauce, all the way to the perfect vegan cheese that browns and melts beautifully.
Begin by preparing the pizza dough. Since traditional pizza dough is naturally vegan, creating a special recipe is unnecessary. Follow your favorite pizza dough recipe, or, for added convenience, you may use store-bought dough. Ensure your dough is stretched smoothly and evenly, providing a solid base for your vegan pizza masterpiece.
Next, sauce plays a key role in developing the flavor profile of your vegan pizza. A classic tomato-based pizza sauce is the crowd-favorite option. However, try out other sauce varieties such as pesto, barbecue, or a garlic-infused olive oil base. These sauce variations can elevate your vegan pizza game and highlight the unique flavors of your chosen toppings.
Now comes the crucial decision of selecting the perfect vegan cheese. Many delicious vegan cheeses on the market are soy-free and dairy-free options that brown and melt well on pizzas. Some of the best vegan cheeses to consider for your pizza are:
- Applewood’s vegan cheese, which boasts a smoky, creamy flavor, is free from soy and gluten and fortified with calcium and vitamin B12.
- Miyoko’s Creamery VeganMozz is a fresh mozzarella-style cheese that brings a gourmet touch to your vegan pizza.
- So Delicious Dairy Free Mozzarella Style Shreds, made from coconut oil and potato starch blend for ultimate meltability.
- Follow Your Heart Vegan Shredded Mozzarella offers a deliciously melty junk-food-like cheese experience.
After assembling your pizza with the dough, sauce, and choice of vegan cheese, add any desired toppings – such as many veggies, meat alternatives, or fruit slices – to further customize your perfect vegan pizza.
Finally, preheat the oven to the recommended temperature for your chosen pizza dough recipe, and place your assembled pizza on a pizza stone or baking sheet. Bake until the crust turns golden brown and your vegan cheese melts perfectly. Allow your pizza to cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving. Enjoy your delectable, soy-free, dairy-free vegan pizza creation!
Pairing Vegan Cheese with Other Ingredients
When creating the perfect vegan pizza, it’s essential to pair your vegan cheese with complementary ingredients. Choosing the right combination can enhance flavors and textures, making your pizza a delightful experience.
One of the popular vegan cheese options is shredded mozzarella made from coconut oil and potato starch. This type of vegan cheese is known for its excellent melting properties and mild, creamy taste, making it a versatile choice for various toppings. You can try some combinations with:
- Seasonings: To bring out the full flavor of the cheese, consider using a blend of garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, basil, and black pepper. These spices add depth to the vegan cheese and amplify its taste.
- Vegetables: Pair your vegan mozzarella with onions, fresh tomatoes, bell peppers, or mushrooms for a classic, vegetable-loaded pizza. To add a bit of kick, arugula can also be an interesting choice.
- Nuts: Enhance the texture of your vegan pizza by adding some crunch. Sprinkle pine nuts or other nuts as a topping for a smooth contrast between the creamy vegan cheese and the nuts’ crispiness.
Opt for cashew-based vegan cheeses like Miyoko’s Organic Cashew Milk Mozzarella for a gourmet touch. This cheese can go beyond the shredded variety and works well with these ingredients:
- Sea salt: A light sprinkle of sea salt can intensify the rich and savory flavor profile of the cashew-based mozzarella, making it even more appetizing.
- Fresh herbs: Consider using fresh herbs like basil or oregano to add an aromatic touch to the pizza. These herbs can elevate the taste of the vegan cheese and create an authentic Italian experience.
- Grilled vegetables: Pair your cashew milk mozzarella with impeccably grilled veggies like zucchini, eggplant, or bell peppers. These ingredients complement the gourmet texture and taste of the vegan cheese.
In conclusion, these are just a few ideas for pairing vegan cheese with other ingredients on your pizza. The key to a delightful vegan pizza experience is finding combinations that work well together, accentuating the cheese’s flavors and textures. Feel free to experiment with your favorite ingredients and create a vegan pizza masterpiece.
Elevating Your Meals with Vegan Cheese
Elevating your meals with vegan cheese has never been easier, as various vegan cheese alternatives are available. Vegan cheese can transform comfort foods like pizza and mac and cheese into delicious, dairy-free delights. Gluten-free and casein-free options also make vegan cheese versatile for different dietary preferences.
One way to enjoy vegan cheese is by creating a vegan cheese board. Several options, such as spreadable cheese, boursin, and oat milk-based mousse, can be combined to accommodate different tastes. Bold flavors and textures can enhance a simple, gluten-free cracker or bread.
Here are a few popular choices for vegan cheese, which can be used in different dishes:
- Miyoko’s Liquid Vegan Pizza Mozzarella: A winner in a taste test, this meltable cheese is great for pizzas.
- Follow Your Heart Vegan Shredded Mozzarella: Perfect for a satisfying, dairy-free mac and cheese experience.
- Violife Just Like Mozzarella Shreds: Their taste and texture make them an excellent option for topping comfort foods.
- 365 Plant-Based Mozzarella-Style Cheese: Ideal for gluten-free and casein-free pizzas, as it melts and stretches like traditional cheese.
When selecting a vegan cheese, it’s essential to consider the specific dish you want to enhance. Spreadable cheese and boursin can be used in dishes that require a smooth, creamy texture. On the other hand, oat milk-based mousse maintains its integrity when added to savory dishes, and canola oil-based cheeses are known for their ability to melt and create that classic cheese pull.
In conclusion, choosing the right vegan cheese can elevate your meals by providing a taste and texture that resembles traditional cheese while accommodating various dietary needs. The options mentioned above are just a few examples of how vegan cheese can be incorporated into your favorite dishes, turning them into delicious and nutritious alternatives.
Storing and Freezing Vegan Cheese
Proper storage is key to maintaining the freshness and taste in vegan cheese. Storing most vegan cheeses, like cashew cheese and mozzarella shreds in a sealed container is ideal. Stores such as Target and Whole Foods carry various vegan cheeses, and following their package instructions for storage is always a good idea.
Freezing vegan cheese is also possible. It won’t result in any health concerns, but the texture and taste can be affected. To freeze vegan cheese effectively, follow these steps:
- Wrap individual portions: If you have a block or container of vegan cheese, it’s best to divide it into smaller portions. This way, you can easily thaw only the desired amount without affecting the rest.
- Use airtight containers or plastic wrap: To protect the vegan cheese from freezer burn and absorb any unwanted odors, use airtight containers or tightly wrap the portions in plastic wrap.
- Label and date: To track the freshness of your cheese and avoid spoilage, label each portion with the date it was put in the freezer.
While frozen vegan cheese can be used for various recipes, it’s best to utilize it for cooking purposes, such as topping your favorite pizza. The change in texture may not be ideal for serving vegan cheese on its own, but it will still provide a melty, creamy experience when baked on pizza.
In summary, properly storing and freezing vegan cheese will help maintain its flavor and quality for longer. Just keep the potential changes in mind if you decide to freeze the cheese and use it for your pizza. This way, you can confidently enjoy delicious, plant-based pizza at home.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the top dairy-free cheeses for pizza?
Various dairy-free cheese options for pizzas taste great and melt well. Some highly recommended options include Miyoko’s Liquid Vegan Pizza Mozzarella and Organic Cashew Milk Mozzarella, Follow Your Heart Vegan Shredded Mozzarella, Violife Just Like Mozzarella Shreds, and So Delicious Dairy Free Mozzarella Style Shreds.
Which vegan cheese brands melt well on pizza?
When selecting vegan cheese that melts well on pizza, consider brands such as Miyoko’s, Follow Your Heart, Violife, and So Delicious Dairy Free. These brands offer vegan cheese options specifically designed to melt and mimic the texture of traditional dairy-based cheese.
Is there a go-to non-dairy mozzarella substitute?
An excellent non-dairy mozzarella substitute would be Miyoko’s Organic Cashew Milk Mozzarella, which is highly praised for its taste, texture, and melting abilities. Other alternatives worth trying include Follow Your Heart’s Vegan Shredded Mozzarella and Violife’s Just Like Mozzarella Shreds.
Can I make my own vegan cheese for pizza?
Yes, making home made vegan cheese for pizza is possible and allows you to customize the flavor and texture to suit your preferences. Many recipes utilize a base of cashews, almonds, or other nuts combined with nutritional yeast, lemon juice, and various seasonings. Homemade vegan cheese can be used for pizza or other dishes that traditionally include dairy-based cheese.
What cheeses can I use in a vegan lasagna?
Vegan lasagna can be made using a variety of non-dairy cheese substitutes. Some options include vegan ricotta (made from tofu or cashews), vegan mozzarella substitutes (such as Miyoko’s, Violife, or Follow Your Heart), or nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor. You can also experiment with a creamy cashew cheese sauce for added richness and flavor.
Are there any restaurant-quality vegan pizza cheese alternatives?
Many restaurant-quality alternatives for vegan pizza cheese are available on the market. Some examples include Miyoko’s Liquid Vegan Pizza Mozzarella and Organic Cashew Milk Mozzarella, known for their exceptional taste and texture. Daiya and So Delicious Dairy Free also offer popular vegan cheese options for restaurant-quality vegan pizzas.
