Nacho Cashew Cheese Sauce (Print version)

Creamy dairy-free sauce with smoky nacho flavor, ready in 25 minutes

# Ingredient List:

→ Nuts and Seeds

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

→ Vegetables and Aromatics

02 - 1/2 cup diced roasted red bell pepper (jarred or homemade)
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 (optional, for color)
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 Make It:

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. Blend until completely smooth and creamy, pausing to scrape down sides as needed. Adjust consistency with additional water, 1 tablespoon at a time.
02 - Taste the sauce and adjust seasoning with additional salt or lemon juice if desired. For more heat, blend in hot sauce or chipotle to your preference.
03 - Transfer the sauce to a small saucepan. Heat gently over medium-low heat, stirring frequently for 5-7 minutes until warmed through and slightly thickened.
04 - Serve warm as a dipping sauce, or drizzle generously over nachos, tacos, or roasted vegetables.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • It comes together in just 25 minutes but tastes like it simmered all afternoon
  • The texture is unbelievably creamy and rich without a drop of dairy
  • You can customize the heat level from mild to spicy
02 -
  • Soaking the cashews in hot water is absolutely necessary for that ultra smooth texture
  • The sauce thickens as it heats, so start slightly thinner than you think you need
  • Raw sunflower seeds make a great nut-free substitute if needed
03 -
  • A high-speed blender makes all the difference for getting that restaurant smooth texture
  • Making it a day ahead lets the flavors meld and develop even more depth

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