Create Your Own 7-Step Vegan Liquid Mozzarella That Will Transform Your Pizza Nights!
introduction
Is there anything more comforting than a warm, cheesy pizza? For those following a vegan diet or simply looking to cut down on dairy, the idea of pizza without cheese can seem daunting. Enter Vegan Liquid Mozzarella – a creamy, dreamy, melt-in-your-mouth topping that will elevate your homemade pizzas to a whole new level! This recipe is not only delicious but also easy to prepare and incredibly satisfying.
why make this recipe
Why choose Vegan Liquid Mozzarella? Besides being dairy-free, it’s packed with wholesome ingredients that nourish your body. This recipe offers a delightful alternative to traditional mozzarella, making it a fantastic choice for anyone wanting to enjoy pizza without sacrificing flavor or texture. It’s smooth, savory, and can be customized to your preferences. Plus, making it at home means you control the ingredients, ensuring a nutritious and tasty result without any unnecessary additives. It’s a win-win for your taste buds and your health!
how to make Vegan Liquid Mozzarella
Making Vegan Liquid Mozzarella is a breeze! You’ll be impressed at how simple it is to whip up this creamy topping in just a few steps. Let’s dive right into the ingredients and the quick directions.
Ingredients:
- ½ cup raw cashews (measure dried unsoaked cashews and a well-filled somewhat heaping half cup)
- ¾ cup water (use 1 tablespoon less for thicker mozzarella)
- 2 teaspoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1 small garlic clove or ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ¾ teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- 1/8 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon Yellow or white miso (or use chickpea miso for soy-free)
- 2 teaspoons tapioca starch (or 1 teaspoon all-purpose flour)
- Optional add-ins: 1 to 2 teaspoons nutritional yeast, 1 tablespoon non-dairy yogurt, or 1 teaspoon sauerkraut brine or pickle brine
- 1 ¼ cup all-purpose flour
- 1/3 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon oregano
- 1 teaspoon active yeast
- ½ cup warm water
- 2 teaspoons olive oil
- ¼ cup pizza sauce (or as needed)
- Freshly torn basil leaves
- 2 teaspoons olive oil to drizzle
- 1 garlic clove (finely minced)
Directions:
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Make the mozzarella cream: Begin by adding your drained cashews and all the other ingredients (except for flour and the pizza toppings) into a blender. Blend everything until you achieve a super smooth consistency. This usually takes about a minute of blending, followed by letting it rest for five minutes before blending again. Repeat this process three to four times. The result should be creamy with no grittiness. Set this mixture aside; no cooking needed!
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Make your pizza crust: You can choose to use a store-bought crust or try making your own. If you’re making the dough, combine yeast with warm water and one tablespoon of flour. Mix and let it sit for five minutes to activate the yeast.
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Add in one cup of flour, salt, oregano, and olive oil. Mix thoroughly until all flour is combined. Gradually add flour, one tablespoon at a time, until the mixture is sticky but not overly so. Shape it into a ball and let it rise under a damp towel for at least 20 minutes near a warm oven.
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Preheat and shape the dough: Set your oven to 425°F (215°C). Sprinkle flour on the dough and transfer it to a lined baking sheet. Press the dough outward to create a thin crust, with thicker edges to prevent burning.
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Add toppings: Spread your favorite pizza sauce generously over the crust. Use a spoon to make big dollops with the liquid mozzarella on top of the sauce and drizzle some more all over. Add fresh basil leaves and sprinkle minced garlic mixed with olive oil for an extra kick. Feel free to add red pepper flakes for heat!
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Bake your pizza: Place your pizza in the oven and bake it for 10 minutes. Afterward, switch to broil mode for the final 3-4 minutes until the mozzarella gets that beautiful golden brown color.
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Slice and enjoy! Remove the pizza, let it sit for a minute to cool, then slice and serve. Enjoy that ooey-gooey goodness!
how to serve Vegan Liquid Mozzarella
Vegan Liquid Mozzarella is perfect for pizzas, of course! However, you can also use it in various dishes. Think drizzled over pasta, topped on baked potatoes, or even as a dipping sauce for fresh bread. Feeling adventurous? Use it in lasagnas or as a creamy base for casseroles. The possibilities are truly endless.
how to store Vegan Liquid Mozzarella
If you have any leftovers (though we doubt you will!), store the Vegan Liquid Mozzarella in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It should be good for about three days. Simply reheat it gently on the stove or in the microwave when you’re ready to enjoy it again. Just be careful not to overheat it, as it may separate.
tips to make Vegan Liquid Mozzarella
For the best results, soak your cashews for at least an hour or two before blending. Soaking makes them easier to blend into that creamy texture. If you want a thicker mozzarella, adjust the amount of water based on your preference. Don’t hesitate to experiment with flavors; adding nutritional yeast gives it a more cheesy depth, while the miso adds umami richness. Play around until you find your perfect mix!
variation (if any)
Feel free to customize this recipe! If you’re looking for a flavor twist, try adding different herbs or spices to the liquid mozzarella blend. You could also experiment with various types of flour for the crust, such as gluten-free options or spelt flour. You’ll find that each variation brings a unique taste to your table.
FAQs
Can I freeze Vegan Liquid Mozzarella?
Yes, you can freeze it! Just ensure it’s stored in an airtight container. Thaw it in the refrigerator before using, and reheat gently.
What if I don’t have miso?
If you’re out of miso, you can simply omit it or substitute it with a bit more nutritional yeast or a splash of soy sauce for added depth.
Can I use this on other dishes besides pizza?
Absolutely! This Vegan Liquid Mozzarella is versatile. Use it as a dip for veggies, in pasta bakes, or drizzled over roasted vegetables. Get creative in the kitchen!
With Vegan Liquid Mozzarella on your plate, pizza night has never been this exciting or cheesy! Enjoy the delicious flavors and the impressive gooeyness without any dairy. Happy cooking!