Velvety Vegan Liquid Mozzarella Recipe With A Touch Of Lemon Zest

Don’t have time to read the full blog post? JUMP TO THE RECIPE HERE!

Finding the perfect vegan cheese can feel like a culinary quest filled with compromises—until you discover the game-changer: vegan liquid mozzarella. I remember the first time I made this recipe; the anticipation was palpable.

Traditional mozzarella, with its gooey and stretchy joy, seemed irreplaceable. Yet, the quest for a plant-based alternative that didn’t sacrifice texture or taste was paramount for my dairy-free lifestyle. The journey led me to this homemade marvel.

Infused with the creamy richness of cashews and the savory depth of nutritional yeast, this vegan liquid mozzarella transformed my pizzas and pasta. It became a staple in my kitchen, proving that no compromise is necessary for indulgence.

What Is Vegan Liquid Mozzarella? 

Vegan liquid mozzarella is a dairy-free cheese alternative designed to mimic the texture and flavor of traditional mozzarella cheese but in a fluid form. It primarily uses plant-based ingredients such as cashews or almonds, nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor, and often incorporates tapioca for stretchiness.

This mozzarella alternative is perfect for drizzling over vegan pizzas, pasta, and salads, offering a creamy, rich, and satisfying taste.

It’s a versatile ingredient in vegan cooking, providing a melting quality that resembles its dairy counterpart’s, making it a popular choice for those following a vegan or lactose-intolerant diet.

Fact: Cashews, the base of many vegan cheeses, are not true nuts but seeds from the cashew apple, a fruit native to Brazil.

Recipe Directions

• Begin by gathering all your ingredients. This ensures a smooth cooking process without interruptions.
• Place the silken tofu, rice vinegar, agave syrup, nutritional yeast flakes, tapioca starch, fine sea salt, vegetable oil, and water into the cup of a high-speed blender.
• Blend the mixture on high until it achieves a smooth consistency. An immersion blender or food processor can be effective alternatives for those without a high-speed blender. Ensure the mixture is thoroughly blended to avoid lumps.
• Once blended, pour the mixture into a small saucepan and set it over medium-low heat on the stove.
• With a whisk in hand, stir the mixture constantly. This step is crucial as the mixture will begin to thicken suddenly. The constant motion prevents sticking and ensures even cooking, leading to a thick and stringy texture reminiscent of traditional melted cheese or fondue. The transformation is swift, so keeping a vigilant eye during this stage is essential.
• Remove the pan from the heat when the mixture reaches the desired consistency. The vegan cheese should now be stretchy and stringy, perfect for drizzling over your favorite dishes.
• This vegan liquid mozzarella is ready to use immediately. However, if you prefer a thicker consistency, transfer it to a container and chill in the fridge. It will not solidify but will become more spoonable upon cooling.
• For an enhanced experience, cook the vegan cheese under the grill or broiler for a few minutes before serving. This final touch allows the cheese to melt, bubble, and brown, unlocking its full flavor potential.

Variations, Add-Ons, And Toppings 

Variations

• Herb-Infused: After cooking, stir in finely chopped fresh herbs such as basil, oregano, or thyme into the mixture to infuse it with aromatic flavors.
• Spicy Kick: Add a dash of red pepper flakes or a bit of finely minced jalapeño to the blend before cooking for a spicy version.
• Garlic Flavor: Blend in a clove of garlic with the initial mixture for a subtle garlic undertone.
• Truffle Cheese: A few drops of truffle oil mixed into the cooked cheese offers a luxurious taste.

Add-Ons

• Sun-Dried Tomatoes: Finely chopped sun-dried tomatoes can be folded into the cheese after it has thickened for a tangy, umami flavor.
• Roasted Bell Peppers: Adding chopped roasted bell peppers provides sweetness and a smoky flavor.
• Nutritional Boost: After cooking, sprinkle in some hemp or chia seeds for an extra nutritional boost. They’re virtually tasteless but add omega-3 fatty acids and additional nutrients.

Toppings

• Fresh Basil or Arugula: Topping your dishes with fresh basil leaves or arugula after adding the vegan mozzarella adds freshness and a peppery bite.
• Balsamic Glaze: Drizzling balsamic glaze over the melted cheese creates a beautiful contrast and adds a sweet, tangy flavor.
• Crushed Nuts: A sprinkle of crushed walnuts, almonds, or pine nuts adds texture and a nutty flavor that complements the creamy mozzarella.
• Edible Flowers: For a visually stunning presentation, edible flowers can be used to top dishes with vegan mozzarella, which is perfect for special occasions.

Vegetable Substitutions 

• Zucchini Puree: Zucchini puree can replace silken tofu for a lighter version, offering a mild flavor and creamy texture.
• Cauliflower Cream: Steamed and blended cauliflower provides a neutral base that absorbs the flavors of the other ingredients well.
• Pumpkin Puree: Adds a subtle sweetness, vibrant color, and creamy consistency.
• Sweet Potato Puree: Offers a naturally sweet taste and creamy texture, enriching the cheese’s body.
• Butternut Squash Puree: A great fall alternative, adding a slightly sweet flavor and creamy texture.
• Carrot Puree: Carrot puree can be a nutritious addition for its slight sweetness and boost of color.

Quick Tip: For the smoothest vegan liquid mozzarella, soak your cashews overnight. This softens them, ensuring a creamier texture when blended, enhancing the final product’s richness and smoothness.

Best Side Dishes 

1. Garlic Bread The creamy texture of vegan liquid mozzarella pairs wonderfully with the crispy, garlicky surface of toasted garlic bread.
2. Caprese Salad This is a modern twist on the classic, using sliced tomatoes, fresh basil, and drizzles of balsamic reduction alongside dollops of vegan mozzarella.
3. Roasted Vegetables Seasonal vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and eggplants roasted to perfection make a colorful and nutritious side.
4. Quinoa Salad A light, protein-packed salad with quinoa, mixed greens, cucumbers, and a tangy vinaigrette, topped with spoonfuls of vegan mozzarella.
5. Stuffed Mushrooms Baby mushrooms are stuffed with a mixture of breadcrumbs, herbs, and vegan mozzarella and baked until golden.
6. Grilled Asparagus Char-grilled asparagus spears seasoned with salt, pepper, and lemon juice, finished with a generous drizzle of melted vegan mozzarella.
7. Sweet Potato Fries Oven-baked or air-fried sweet potato fries served with vegan liquid mozzarella for dipping.
8. Bruschetta Crispy slices of baguette topped with a fresh mix of diced tomatoes, basil, olive oil, and a dollop of creamy vegan mozzarella.
9. Zucchini Noodles Spiralized zucchini noodles lightly sautéed with garlic and olive oil, topped with vegan liquid mozzarella for a low-carb, comforting dish.
10. Polenta Rounds Grilled or baked polenta rounds serve as a gluten-free base for vegan mozzarella, roasted cherry tomatoes, and a sprinkle of fresh herbs.

How To Serve? 

• Drizzled Over Vegan Pizza: A creamy, cheesy topping enhances the pizza.
• As a Dip for Breadsticks or Veggies: Perfect for a creamy, savory dipping experience.
• In Vegan Lasagna: Add moisture and creaminess between the layers of pasta and vegetables.
• Over Baked Potatoes: A delightful, cheesy topping complements the earthy potato flavor.
• Grilled Cheese Sandwiches: Provides the melt and stretch factor essential for a great vegan grilled cheese.
• On Top of Vegan Nachos: Elevates nachos with a creamy, cheesy drizzle.
• In Stuffed Bell Peppers: Adds a creamy texture and rich flavor to the filling.
• With Vegan Mac and Cheese: Mix it into cooked pasta for an instant creamy sauce.
• Over Steamed or Grilled Vegetables: A cheesy sauce makes veggies irresistible.
• As a Cheese Sauce in Vegan Burritos or Tacos: It brings a creamy element to Mexican-inspired dishes.
• In Savory Breakfast Crepes: A unique way to start the day with a cheesy twist.
• As a Fondue: Serve as a dip with pieces of bread, vegetables, or vegan meat alternatives for a fun and interactive eating experience.

Quick Tip: Add a dash of white miso paste to enhance the vegan liquid mozzarella flavor. It introduces a subtle umami depth, closely mimicking the taste of traditional cheese.

Storage & Make Ahead 

• Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container. Keeps well for up to 5 days.
• Freezing: Freeze in a sealed container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before use.
• Stir Well: If separation occurs, stir vigorously or blend until smooth.
• Make Ahead: Prepare a larger batch and store it as directed. Having it ready in the fridge or freezer simplifies meal prep and enhances quick meals.
• Reheat Gently: Warm over low heat, stirring frequently, to prevent sticking or burning.
• Consistency Adjustment: If it is too thick after storage, gently heat and whisk in a small amount of water or vegetable broth to achieve the desired consistency.

Fact: Tapioca starch in vegan liquid mozzarella recipes is key for its characteristic stretchiness, mimicking the gooey melt of traditional mozzarella without any dairy products.

Frequently Asked Questions 

Can I Use Almond Milk Instead Of Silken Tofu In The Vegan Liquid Mozzarella Recipe?

You can substitute silken tofu with almond or plant-based milk for a lighter texture. When using plant milk, aim for an unsweetened and unflavored variety to maintain the cheese’s intended flavor profile. The consistency may vary slightly, so you might need to adjust the quantity to achieve the desired thickness.

Is Vegan Liquid Mozzarella Gluten-Free?

The basic ingredients of vegan liquid mozzarella—such as cashews, nutritional yeast, tapioca starch, and plant-based milk—are naturally gluten-free. However, if you’re strictly avoiding gluten, check all ingredient labels for cross-contamination warnings.

Some nutritional yeast or plant milk brands might be processed in facilities that also handle gluten-containing products.

How Can I Achieve A Stretchier Texture With Vegan Liquid Mozzarella?

The key ingredient is tapioca starch, which enhances the stretchiness of vegan liquid mozzarella. Tapioca starch is known for its ability to create a stretchy, gooey texture reminiscent of dairy cheese.

If you desire an even stretchier consistency, consider increasing the amount of tapioca starch slightly. Remember to adjust the liquid content accordingly to maintain the right balance.

Can I Make Vegan Liquid Mozzarella Without A High-Speed Blender?

Yes, you can still make vegan liquid mozzarella without a high-speed blender. An immersion blender or a standard food processor can be alternatives, though they may require more blending time to achieve a smooth consistency.

Make sure all ingredients are thoroughly blended to avoid grittiness. Soaking nuts like cashews beforehand can also help create a smoother blend with less powerful equipment.

How Should I Store Vegan Liquid Mozzarella, And How Long Does It Last?

Vegan liquid mozzarella should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Properly stored, it can last for up to 5 days. If you notice any odd smells, discoloration, or mold, it’s best to discard the cheese.

For longer storage, you can freeze the vegan mozzarella in a sealed container for up to 2 months. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before use. Note that freezing and thawing may slightly alter the texture.