Introduction
Looking for a delicious and creamy dip that’s perfect for your next gathering? This cashew-based queso is not only plant-based but also bursting with flavor. Packed with nutrients and a hint of spice, it will leave your guests reaching for more. Dive into this simple yet indulgent recipe that pairs perfectly with chips or fresh veggies.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
Cashews
2 cups raw, unsalted cashews, soaked in water for 5-24 hours and drained
Nutritional Yeast
⅓ cup nutritional yeast
Almond Milk
½ cup unsweetened almond milk
Sea Salt
2 teaspoons coarse sea salt
Lime Juice
1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
Chili Powder
½ teaspoon chili powder
Cilantro
¼ cup chopped fresh cilantro, plus more for garnish
Diced Tomatoes with Green Chiles
10 ounces diced tomatoes with green chiles, drained (1 can)
Prep Time
5 minutes (plus soaking time of 5-24 hours)
Cook Time
10 minutes
Total Time
Total time varies based on soaking duration but approximately 15-30 minutes active time.
Yield
Serves about 4-6 people as a dip.
In conclusion, this cashew queso is a fantastic addition to your snack repertoire. It’s creamy, flavorful, and incredibly easy to make. Whether you’re hosting a party or just in need of a tasty treat, this dish is bound to impress! Enjoy with your favorite chips and don’t forget to top it with some fresh cilantro for an added burst of flavor.
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Soak the Cashews
Ensure the cashews have been soaked in water for at least 5 hours or up to 24 hours. Once soaked, drain the water.
Blend the Ingredients
In a food processor or high-powered blender, combine the soaked cashews, nutritional yeast, almond milk, coarse sea salt, fresh lime juice, chili powder, and chopped cilantro. Blend on high until the mixture is fully smooth. If necessary, stop to stir the mixture to achieve the desired consistency.
Combine with Tomatoes
Transfer the smooth cashew mixture to a small skillet or saucepan. Stir in the drained diced tomatoes with green chiles, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the queso.
Heat the Mixture
Place the saucepan over medium-low heat. Stir occasionally until the queso is warmed to your liking. Be cautious and monitor the mixture to prevent burning at the edges.
Garnish and Serve
Once heated, garnish the queso with additional chopped cilantro. Serve with your favorite chips for dipping.
Notes
Soaking Tips
For optimal creaminess, soak the cashews for the full 24 hours, but a minimum of 5 hours will still work.
Flavor Adjustments
Feel free to adjust the amount of chili powder according to your preferred spice level.
Vegan Option
This queso is completely vegan, making it suitable for various dietary preferences.
Storage Instructions
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently before serving.
Cook techniques
Soaking Cashews
Soaking cashews in water for 5 to 24 hours softens them, making them easier to blend into a creamy texture for sauces and dips.
Blending
Using a food processor or high-powered blender ensures that the ingredients are combined thoroughly to create a smooth consistency. Pause to scrape down the sides as needed for even blending.
Heating
Gently heating the blended mixture in a skillet or saucepan helps marry the flavors and achieves the desired temperature without burning. Stir often to prevent sticking.
Garnishing
Adding fresh cilantro on top before serving enhances flavor and presentation, making the dish visually appealing.
FAQ
Can I substitute raw cashews with another nut?
While cashews provide a creamy texture, you can experiment with other nuts like almonds or macadamias, but the flavor and texture will differ.
Is nutritional yeast necessary?
Nutritional yeast adds a cheesy flavor and nutritional benefits, but you can omit it or use a different cheese alternative if preferred.
Can I use a different plant-based milk?
Yes, you can substitute almond milk with other plant-based milks such as soy, oat, or coconut milk, adjusting for flavor differences.
How can I adjust the spiciness?
To modify the spice level, you can reduce the chili powder or add milder spices. Alternatively, consider adding fresh jalapeños for heat.
What can I serve with this queso?
This queso pairs well with chips, veggies, or even as a topping for nachos, tacos, or burritos for added creaminess.
Conclusion
This creamy and spicy cashew queso is a delightful and healthy alternative to traditional cheese dips. The combination of soaked cashews, nutritional yeast, and vibrant ingredients creates a rich, flavorful dip that’s perfect for any gathering. The addition of lime juice and chili powder adds a tangy kick, while the fresh cilantro brightens the dish. Serve it warm with your favorite chips for a delicious and satisfying snack.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Veggie Quesadilla
Use the cashew queso as a filling for a veggie quesadilla, layering it with sautéed bell peppers, onions, and spinach between two tortillas and grilling until crispy.
Stuffed Bell Peppers
Mixed the cashew queso with quinoa or rice and use it as a stuffing for halved bell peppers, baking them until tender for a nutritious dish.
Taco Salad
Drizzle the cashew queso over a bed of mixed greens, adding black beans, corn, diced tomatoes, and avocado for a refreshing and hearty salad.
Pasta Sauce
Thinned with additional almond milk, the cashew queso can be transformed into a creamy pasta sauce, tossed with your choice of pasta and vegetables.
Nachos Supreme
Use the cashew queso as a topping for nachos, layering with black beans, corn, diced jalapeños, and avocados for a delicious appetizer or game-day snack.
