Cashew Queso with Nutritional Yeast (Vegan) Recipe
This creamy and flavorful vegan Cashew Queso with Nutritional Yeast is a perfect plant-based alternative to traditional cheese dips. Made with raw cashews, nutritional yeast, and a blend of spices, this dip is smooth, cheesy, and slightly spicy. Quick to prepare and versatile for snacking or party appetizers, it's perfect for those seeking a dairy-free, vegan cheese sauce.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 5 minutes
- Yield: 1 serving
- Category: Dip
- Method: Blending
- Cuisine: Vegan
- Diet: Vegan
Ingredients
Cashew Base
- 1 ¼ cup raw cashews
- 1 ¼ cup water (reduce to 1 cup for a thicker dip)
- ¼ cup nutritional yeast
Seasonings
- 2 teaspoons chili powder (seasoning blend, not ground chilis)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon ground cumin
- ½ teaspoon paprika (sweet or smoky)
Additional Flavorings
- 1 can diced green chilis
- Hot sauce (Frank's or Valentina's recommended, to taste)
- Diced jalapeño (fresh or pickled, to taste)
Instructions
- Blend the Base: Combine the raw cashews, water, nutritional yeast, chili powder, salt, garlic powder, cumin, and paprika in a high-speed blender. Start blending at a low speed and gradually increase to high. Continue blending for a full minute until the mixture is extremely smooth and creamy.
- Adjust Flavor: Taste the queso and adjust seasoning as desired. Add hot sauce and diced jalapeños for extra heat. If the dip needs brightness to balance the chili powder flavors, add one teaspoon of apple cider vinegar or lemon juice.
- Store and Serve: Transfer the queso to a jar and refrigerate. It keeps well for 3-4 days, although it’s likely to be enjoyed quickly!
Notes
- For a thicker dip, reduce the water quantity to 1 cup instead of 1 ¼ cups.
- Feel free to customize heat levels by adding more hot sauce or jalapeños based on taste preference.
- This queso is perfect served as a dip with chips or drizzled over vegetables and Mexican dishes.
- Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
