Vegan Mac and Cheese
I hope this comprehensive guide has inspired you to make this delicious and comforting Vegan Mac and Cheese! It’s a perfect plant-based version of a classic comfort food that’s sure to please everyone.
Ingredients
Here’s a complete list of the ingredients you’ll need, with precise measurements:
- 8 ounces elbow macaroni or your favorite pasta
- 1 cup raw cashews, soaked for at least 4 hours or boiled for 10 minutes
- 1 cup unsweetened almond milk or other plant-based milk
- 1/4 cup nutritional yeast
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon turmeric (for color, optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/4 cup of water (if needed)
Instructions
Let’s get cooking! Here’s a detailed, step-by-step guide:
Step 1: Cook Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set it aside.
Step 2: Prepare Cashews (if not already soaked)
If you haven’t soaked the cashews for at least 4 hours, boil them in water for 10 minutes to soften them. Drain the boiled cashews.
Step 3: Blend Sauce Ingredients
In a high-speed blender, combine the soaked or boiled cashews, almond milk, nutritional yeast, lemon juice, apple cider vinegar, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, turmeric (if using), salt, and pepper.
Blend until completely smooth and creamy. This may take a few minutes, depending on your blender. If the sauce is too thick, add water, a little at a time (up to 1/4 cup), until the desired consistency is reached.
Step 4: Heat Sauce
In a large saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
Pour in the blended cheese sauce. Cook, stirring constantly, until the sauce is heated through and slightly thickened, about 5-7 minutes.
Step 5: Combine Pasta and Sauce
Add the cooked and drained pasta to the saucepan with the cheese sauce.
Stir well to coat the pasta evenly with the sauce.
Step 6: Serve
Serve the Vegan Mac and Cheese hot, optionally garnished with fresh herbs (such as parsley or chives), a sprinkle of nutritional yeast, or a drizzle of olive oil.
Enjoy this creamy, cheesy, and comforting plant-based meal!
Find it online: https://www.eatswithsoul.com/vegan-mac-and-cheese/