Nacho Cashew Cheese Sauce (Printable View)

A creamy, plant-based cheese alternative with smoky spices and zesty flavor ideal for dipping or topping your favorite Tex-Mex dishes.

# Ingredient List:

→ Nuts

01 - 1 cup raw cashews soaked in hot water for 15 minutes then drained

→ Vegetables

02 - 1/2 cup diced roasted red bell pepper jarred or homemade

→ Seasonings

03 - 2 tablespoons nutritional yeast
04 - 2 teaspoons fresh lemon juice
05 - 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
06 - 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
07 - 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
08 - 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
09 - 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
10 - 1/2 teaspoon turmeric for color optional
11 - 1 teaspoon salt or to taste

→ Liquids

12 - 3/4 cup water plus more as needed for desired consistency

→ Optional Enhancements

13 - 1 teaspoon hot sauce or chipotle in adobo for extra heat
14 - 1 tablespoon olive oil for extra creaminess

# How to Prepare:

01 - Combine drained cashews roasted red bell pepper nutritional yeast lemon juice garlic powder onion powder smoked paprika cumin chili powder turmeric salt and water in a high-speed blender
02 - Blend until completely smooth and creamy pausing to scrape down sides as needed Adjust consistency with additional water 1 tablespoon at a time
03 - Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt or lemon juice if desired For additional heat blend in hot sauce or chipotle
04 - Pour sauce into a small saucepan Heat gently over medium-low heat stirring frequently for 5-7 minutes until warmed through and slightly thickened
05 - Serve warm as a dip or drizzle over nachos tacos or roasted vegetables

# Expert Suggestions:

01 -
  • This sauce comes together in under 30 minutes but tastes like it simmered all day
  • Its incredibly versatile and keeps in the fridge for easy weeknight meals
02 -
  • Let your cashews soak for at least 15 minutes in hot water for the creamiest results
  • The sauce will thicken as it heats, so start thinner than you think you need
03 -
  • Invest in a high-speed blender, it makes all the difference in achieving that velvety texture
  • Taste your sauce before heating, as the flavors will concentrate and intensify

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