Faux Parmesan
on Jun 01, 2024, Updated Jul 03, 2024
A nutty, “cheesy,” and savory sprinkle that transforms any dish into a plant-based masterpiece! This vegan Faux Parmesan is perfect for adding that extra oomph to your pasta, salads, and more!
Why I Love This Recipe
Hey there, lovely food enthusiasts! Chef AJ here, the Queen of Quick and Easy plant-based recipes! I create delicious recipes that are oil-free, refined sugar-free, and salt-free. When I’m not busy creating mouthwatering dishes, I’m interviewing amazing plant-based doctors, chefs, and health experts for my YouTube show. So, trust me, I know a thing or two about keeping recipes simple, quick, and full of flavor. This Faux Parmesan uses common ingredients, comes together in under 10 minutes, and needs minimal preparation. Plus, it’s a foolproof way to add a gourmet touch to your meals with hardly any effort!
This isn’t your average cheese substitute; it’s a fantastic blend that’s nutty, savory, and downright addictive. Whether you’re a seasoned plant-based aficionado or new to this lifestyle, this recipe will quickly become a favorite in your kitchen. Sprinkle it over any dish, and watch it elevate your culinary creations to the next level!
Key Ingredients
- Raw Almonds or Cashews: These nuts provide a creamy base and rich texture, perfect for mimicking the consistency of Parmesan cheese. Plus, they’re packed with healthy fats and protein.
- Nutritional Yeast: This is what gives our Faux Parmesan its cheesy flavor. It’s also a great source of B-vitamins and protein, making it a nutritious addition to any meal.
- Benson’s Table Tasty (or your favorite salt-free seasoning): Adds a punch of flavor without the sodium, enhancing the savory taste of the Faux Parmesan.
The Process
Start by combining all the ingredients—raw almonds or cashews, nutritional yeast, and Benson’s Table Tasty—in a food processor fitted with the “S” blade or in a blender.
Process until a powdered texture is achieved. If you prefer a chunkier texture, process it less. Be careful not to overprocess the mixture, or you might turn it into almond or cashew butter!
Once it’s ready, transfer your Faux Parmesan to a glass jar or container for storage.
Chef’s Tips
- Caution: Be careful not to overprocess the mixture or you might turn it into almond or cashew butter.
- Swapping Ingredients: For a reduced-fat version, substitute ½ cup of rolled oats for the nuts.
- Ingredient Options: You can also use store-bought almond flour in place of the almonds.
How to Store the Faux Parmesan
Store your Faux Parmesan in a glass container in the fridge. Make sure the container is airtight to maintain its freshness and prevent moisture from getting in.
Frequently Asked Questions
Your Faux Parmesan will stay fresh for up to two weeks if stored in an airtight container in the fridge.
If you don’t have a food processor, a high-speed blender will work as well. Just make sure to pulse the mixture to avoid over-processing.
Serving Suggestion
Faux Parmesan is incredibly versatile. Sprinkle it over your favorite pasta dishes, salads, soups, or even popcorn for a cheesy, savory kick. Pair it with my Quick Sun-Dried Tomato Marinara or Quick Dijon Balsamic-Glazed Brussels Sprouts!
Summary
This Faux Parmesan comes together quickly and easily, perfect for those who want to add a cheesy touch to their meals without any dairy. It’s convenient, affordable, and made with ingredients you can find at your local grocery store. Eating plant-based has never been easier or more delicious!
If you tried this recipe, I’d love to see your results! Share your culinary creation on social media and tag me. As the Queen of Quick and Easy, nothing makes me happier than seeing how my convenient plant-based recipes inspire your kitchen adventures. Let’s celebrate the love of cooking and enjoy the deliciousness together!
Faux Parmesan
Equipment
- Food processor
Ingredients
- 1 cup raw almonds or cashews
- ½ cup nutritional yeast
- 1 tbsp Benson’s Table Tasty, or your favorite salt-free seasoning
Instructions
- In a food processor fitted with the “S” blade or in a blender, combine all the ingredients and process until a powdered texture is achieved. If you like it chunkier, process it less.
This is great on pizza or pasta and many casseroles!
Made this for the first time yesterday and it was excellent. Put it on top of vegan chili. Added about 1/2 tsp. salt because I felt it needed it.