Creamy Vegan Sauce Recipe

Whipping up this creamy cashew sauce made me feel like a culinary magician, transforming simple nuts into a luscious, silky creation. It’s become my secret weapon for adding a burst of flavor to salads, grain bowls, and roasted veggies with minimal effort.

I adore making mouthwatering, healthful recipes that everyone can relish, and this Creamy Vegan Sauce is no different. It’s loaded with the must-have nutrients from raw cashew nuts and gives out so much flavor, you’ll want to use it on everything.

That’s partly because I added a ridiculous amount of garlic to it. Of course, a creamy sauce simply isn’t creamy enough without some good old-fashioned cashew nuts, pureed to perfection.

Creamy Vegan Sauce Recipe Ingredients

• Raw Cashews: Rich in protein and healthy fats; create a creamy texture.
• Lemon Juice: Provides a bright, tangy flavor and vitamin C boost.
• Nutritional Yeast: Adds cheesy flavor and is high in B vitamins.
• Apple Cider Vinegar: Enhances tanginess and aids in digestion.
• Garlic: Infuses aromatic depth and offers immune-boosting properties.

Creamy Vegan Sauce Recipe Ingredient Quantities

• 1 cup raw cashews, soaked for at least 2 hours
• 3/4 cup water, plus more if needed for desired consistency
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 2 tablespoons nutritional yeast
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
• 1 clove garlic
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• 1/2 teaspoon sea salt, or to taste
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

How to Make this Creamy Vegan Sauce Recipe

1. Start with the soaked cashews. After the soaking time, drain and rinse them before blending.

2. Place the cashews in a high-speed blender. Add 3/4 cup of water.

3. Add the lemon juice, nutritional yeast, apple cider vinegar, and garlic to the blender.

4. Incorporate the Dijon mustard, sea salt, and black pepper.

5. Mix the combination on high until it achieves a smooth, creamy texture, stopping intermittently to ensure the sides are well integrated.

6. Add water, one tablespoon at a time, to the sauce if it is too thick, blending between each addition until the sauce has reached the desired consistency.

7. Sample the sauce and see if it needs more seasoning. If it does, now is the time to add it. Use more salt or lemon juice to enhance the flavor.

8. Pour the sauce into a serving bowl or a storage container.

9. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes so that the flavors can meld together for a richer taste.

10. Function as a dip, a dressing, or simply drizzle over your desired dish in most any culinary application. Enjoy!

Creamy Vegan Sauce Recipe Equipment Needed

1. Measuring cups
2. Measuring spoons
3. Bowl for soaking and draining cashews
4. High-speed blender
5. Knife (for garlic and lemon)
6. Cutting board
7. Spatula
8. Serving bowl or storage container
9. Refrigerator for chilling

FAQ

• Can I use roasted cashews instead of raw?It is suggested that one use unroasted cashews, as they yield a creamier result. Using roasted cashews may change the flavor and texture.
• How should I soak the cashews?The cashews should be soaked in water for a minimum of 2 hours or, for optimal results, overnight. To soak them in a hurry: cover with hot water for at least half an hour.
• Can I substitute lemon juice with something else?Sour lime juice can serve as an acceptable substitute, but it may change the flavor somewhat.
• Is there an alternative to nutritional yeast?Nutritional yeast is crucial for a cheesy taste; however, if you can’t find it, use a tiny bit of miso paste (or nothing at all, if it’s not in your pantry) and realize that your “cheese” sauce is going to have a different flavor.
  
• How long does this sauce last in the refrigerator?Keep the sauce in a lidded container in the refrigerator. It’ll be good for 5-7 days.
• Can I freeze the sauce?Indeed, place in an airtight container and store in the freezer for no more than 1 month. When you want to use it, move to the refrigerator to thaw. Stir vigorously before using.
• What can I use this sauce for?This sauce has many possible uses. It can dress a salad or serve as a dip. It can also go on pasta. It can be spread inside a sandwich or a wrap. Creamy and delicious, it can also be called up to give

Creamy Vegan Sauce Recipe Substitutions and Variations

1 cup raw cashews. Substitute with 1 cup blanched almonds or sunflower seeds for a nut-free option.
2 tablespoons lemon juice. Substitute with 2 tablespoons lime juice or apple cider vinegar.
2 tablespoons nutritional yeast: If you want a different umami flavor, try 2 tablespoons of miso paste in place of the nutritional yeast.
1 clove garlic. Substitute: 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder or 1/4 teaspoon onion powder.
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard: Replace with 1 teaspoon yellow mustard or 1 teaspoon tahini for a milder flavor.

Pro Tips

1. Use Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh lemon juice and garlic for the best flavor. Pre-squeeze the lemon juice and mince the garlic just before using to ensure a vibrant taste.