Smoky Vegan Macaroni and Cheese
Try this Smoky Vegan Macaroni and Cheese recipe
Try this Smoky Vegan Macaroni and Cheese recipe
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons nutritional yeast
- 1 teaspoon sea salt plus more to taste
- pinch of cayenne pepper (optional)
- dash of hot sauce (optional)
- 12 to 16 ounces brown rice elbow pasta depending on desired level of cheesiness (i use 12 ounces for a cheesier mac 'n' cheese)
- 1 1/3 cups filtered water
- 2 tablespoons arrowroot powder/flour/starch
- 2 teaspoons smoked paprika or to taste
- 2/3 cup raw cashews soaked in boiling water for 10 minutes and drained (to soften)
- 1/3 cup chopped roasted red peppers
- Carbohydrate 10.2237041666667 g
- Cholesterol 0 mg
- Fat 10.906065 g
- Fiber 2.161625 g
- Protein 6.17952083333333 g
- Saturated Fat 2.13274333333333 g
- Serving Size 1 1 to 6 serving (116g)
- Sodium 10.6968333333333 mg
- Sugar 8.06207916666667 g
- Trans Fat 0.566144999999997 g
- Calories 153 calories
Step-by-step
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook until al dente and drain, reserving 1 cup of the pasta water.
- Return the pasta to the pan.
- Meanwhile, make the Smoky Cashew Cheddar Cheese by adding the soaked and drained cashews, filtered water, roasted red peppers, arrowroot, apple cider vinegar, smoked paprika, sea salt, black pepper, cayenne (if using), and hot sauce (if using) to a high-speed blender.
- Blend on high for 2 to 3 minutes or until completely smooth, stopping to scrape down the sides as needed.
- Once the pasta is ready, pour the Smoky Cashew Cheddar Cheese mixture into a medium saucepan.
- Heat over medium for 5 minutes or until very thick and just shy of stretchy, whisking constantly.
- Once thickened, immediately turn off the heat to avoid overheating. Arrowroot loses its thickening power if overheated, so be attentive to it.
- Spoon the cheese over the pasta and toss to coat, adding pasta water, a few tablespoons at a time, as needed to thin the sauce.
- Season with more sea salt, smoked paprika, and black pepper, to taste.
My Smoky Vegan Macaroni and Cheese Adventure
As a busy professional woman, finding time to cook healthy and delicious meals can be a challenge. I’m always looking for recipes that are quick, easy, and satisfying, and this Smoky Vegan Macaroni and Cheese recipe has become a real winner in my weeknight rotation. It’s surprisingly simple to make, yet it tastes unbelievably decadent and creamy. Forget everything you think you know about vegan mac and cheese – this is the real deal.
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and adaptability. I love how versatile it is. Sometimes, I’ll add a handful of wilted spinach for extra nutrients and a vibrant green pop of color. Other times, I’ll spice things up with a few dashes of your favorite hot sauce (because who doesn’t love a little heat?). The smoked paprika adds a depth of flavor that elevates the dish beyond the ordinary, making it truly memorable. The cashew cheese sauce is incredibly smooth and rich, almost unbelievably so for a vegan creation. It’s a testament to the power of simple ingredients expertly combined. And let’s be honest, the best part? It’s completely guilt-free! I can enjoy a generous helping without that heavy, sluggish feeling that often accompanies traditional creamy mac and cheese.
One of the aspects I appreciate most about this recipe is the minimal cleanup involved. Everything comes together in a couple of pots, making it perfect for a busy weeknight dinner. Plus, the ingredients are readily available in most supermarkets, making it convenient and accessible to anyone. I often double or even triple the recipe so I have leftovers for lunch throughout the week. It reheats beautifully, retaining its creamy texture and amazing flavor.
Beyond the Recipe: Embracing a Balanced Lifestyle
This Smoky Vegan Macaroni and Cheese recipe isn't just about a delicious meal; it represents a larger approach to my life. Balancing work, social life, and self-care requires careful planning and resourceful cooking. This recipe fits seamlessly into that balanced lifestyle. It allows me to enjoy comfort food without compromising my healthy eating goals. The satisfying creaminess of the cashew cheese sauce doesn't rely on heavy cream or butter, and the use of brown rice pasta provides a good source of fiber. It's a small step towards a healthier diet that feels luxurious and indulgent.
For me, cooking is an act of self-care. It's a time to de-stress, get creative in the kitchen, and nourish myself with wholesome food. This recipe offers a delightful blend of ease and indulgence, allowing me to savor each bite and appreciate the simple pleasures of good food. The process of making it is therapeutic; the chopping, blending, and stirring are a quiet meditation, a moment of pause in a busy schedule. And the end result? A warming, comforting, and undeniably delicious bowl of vegan mac and cheese that’s both good for the body and the soul.
Tips and Variations for the Perfect Mac and Cheese
Cashew Soaking: Soaking the cashews beforehand is key to creating a super-smooth and creamy cheese sauce. Don’t skip this step! I find that 10 minutes in boiling water is perfect. Remember to drain them thoroughly before blending.
Arrowroot Power: Arrowroot powder is a fantastic thickening agent, but it’s important to avoid overheating it. Once the sauce has thickened, immediately remove it from the heat to prevent the arrowroot from losing its thickening properties. A little patience goes a long way here!
Flavor Adjustments: Feel free to experiment with different spices and herbs. A pinch of nutmeg, a few dashes of Worcestershire sauce (vegan, of course!), or some chopped fresh herbs like chives or parsley would all be delightful additions.
Pasta Choice: Brown rice pasta is my personal preference because of its nutty flavor and hearty texture. But feel free to use any pasta shape you like, whether it’s elbow macaroni, shells, or rotini. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Make it a Meal: This mac and cheese is wonderful on its own, but you can easily elevate it to a complete meal. Add some roasted vegetables like broccoli or Brussels sprouts for extra nutrition and flavor. A side salad would also be a refreshing complement to this rich and creamy dish.
This Smoky Vegan Macaroni and Cheese recipe is more than just a meal; it's a journey of discovery, a testament to the possibilities of plant-based cooking, and a testament to the fact that healthy eating doesn’t have to be boring or complicated. It’s a recipe that’s simple enough for a weeknight dinner yet flavorful enough for a special occasion. Try it, and I promise you won’t be disappointed! Enjoy!
