This vegan feta cheese recipe tastes just like the real thing! With its creamy texture and tangy flavor, this homemade vegan feta is the perfect addition to salads, sandwiches, or any dish in need of a savory kick. Or, snack on these vegan feta bites on their own.
Made from simple and wholesome ingredients, this recipe will show you how easy it is to create a dairy-free alternative that captures the essence of traditional feta cheese. Let’s dive in and make some vegan feta magic! If you’re interested in more homemade plant-based cheese recipes, feel free to explore my complete vegan cheese recipe collection here.
Ingredients & Substitutions
When it comes to making vegan feta cheese, here are the ingredients you’ll need. First off, you’ll require a block of extra firm tofu, which should be pressed to remove excess moisture. Additionally, you’ll want to have on hand some extra virgin olive oil, lemon juice, and red wine vinegar (though apple cider vinegar can be used as a substitute).
To enhance the cheesy flavor, nutritional yeast is included, along with Italian seasoning for a delightful herbal touch. For added depth of taste, we recommend including onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and a touch of white miso paste.
Now, let’s talk about possible ingredient substitutions. If you don’t have extra firm tofu, you can try using firm tofu instead, but keep in mind that the texture might be slightly different.
As for the olive oil, feel free to experiment with other high-quality oils such as avocado oil or grapeseed oil if you prefer. If you don’t have red wine vinegar, apple cider vinegar can be used as a suitable replacement. The Italian seasoning can be substituted with a blend of dried herbs like oregano, basil, thyme, and rosemary. Lastly, if you don’t have white miso paste, you can omit it or substitute it with a small amount of soy sauce.
Remember, cooking is all about creativity, so feel free to adapt this recipe according to your taste preferences and the ingredients you have available. Get ready to enjoy your homemade vegan feta cheese in no time!
Helpful Tools
- Tofu Press: Investing in a tofu press is highly recommended as it helps remove excess moisture from the tofu more effectively than manual pressing. It ensures a firmer texture and allows the tofu to absorb the flavors of the marinade better.
- Airtight Container: Having a medium-sized airtight container is essential for marinating the tofu. It allows you to mix the marinade ingredients thoroughly and coat the tofu evenly. Additionally, the airtight seal helps to retain flavors and prevent any leaks or spills during the marinating process.
- Cutting Board and Knife: A sturdy cutting board and a sharp knife are essential for cutting the tofu into bite-sized cubes. Opt for a knife that allows for precise cuts, ensuring consistent-sized pieces.
- Mixing Utensil: You’ll need a mixing utensil such as a spoon or whisk to combine the marinade ingredients thoroughly. This will help incorporate all the flavors and spices evenly.
- Serving Dish: Once the tofu has marinated, having a nice serving dish or plate to present your vegan feta cheese is a great way to make it visually appealing. It can be a simple platter or a salad bowl, depending on how you plan to enjoy the cheese.
How to Make Vegan Feta Cheese
To make this delicious vegan feta cheese, follow these easy steps. Start by preparing the marinade in a medium-sized airtight container. Combine the olive oil, vinegar, nutritional yeast, Italian seasoning, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and white miso paste. Give it a good mix to ensure all the flavors blend together harmoniously.
Next, cut the extra firm tofu into bite-sized cubes. Place the tofu cubes into the container with the marinade. Close the lid tightly and gently shake the container, ensuring each tofu piece is coated with the flavorful marinade.
Tofu Vegan Feta Marinade
Now comes the waiting game. Allow the tofu to marinate for at least one hour. This time allows the tofu to absorb the flavors and develop a deliciously tangy taste reminiscent of traditional feta cheese.
Once the tofu has marinated to your satisfaction, you can serve it as a snack or incorporate it into your favorite dishes. Sprinkle the vegan feta cheese over salads, stuff it into sandwiches, or use it to elevate any dish in need of a savory kick. The possibilities are endless! Enjoy the creamy texture and tangy flavor of your homemade vegan feta cheese creation.
Tips & Tricks
- Pressing the Tofu: Before marinating, it’s crucial to press the tofu to remove excess moisture. This will result in a firmer texture and better absorption of flavors. Use a tofu press or wrap the tofu block in a clean kitchen towel, place a heavy object on top, and let it sit for about 30 minutes to an hour.
- Adjusting the Marinade: Feel free to adjust the marinade ingredients to suit your taste preferences. Add more lemon juice for extra tanginess or increase the amount of nutritional yeast for a cheesier flavor. Don’t be afraid to experiment and find the perfect balance that satisfies your palate.
- Marinating Time: While a minimum marinating time of one hour is recommended, longer marinating times will intensify the flavors. For even more depth of taste, you can marinate the tofu overnight in the refrigerator. Just make sure to give it a gentle shake every now and then to redistribute the marinade.
- Storage: If you have any leftovers or want to make a bigger batch in advance, store the vegan feta cheese in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It can last for up to five days, allowing you to enjoy its goodness over multiple meals.
- Experiment with Additions: If you want to elevate the flavor profile even further, consider adding some extras to the marinade. Chopped fresh herbs like parsley, dill, or basil can provide a refreshing herbal note. You can also include finely minced garlic or a dash of your favorite hot sauce for a kick of spiciness.
FAQ: Easy Vegan Feta Cheese
While the recipe calls for extra firm tofu, you can experiment with firm tofu if that’s what you have on hand. Keep in mind that the texture may be slightly different, but it should still work well.
Absolutely! To make this recipe gluten-free, ensure that you use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari instead of regular soy sauce. Also, double-check the ingredients of the red Thai curry paste and any other optional additions for gluten content.
Absolutely! If you prefer a different oil, such as avocado oil or grapeseed oil, feel free to use it instead. It may impart a slightly different flavor, but it will still result in a tasty vegan feta cheese.
Yes, you can substitute red wine vinegar with apple cider vinegar if needed. The flavor may vary slightly, but it will still provide a pleasant tanginess to the feta cheese.
Nutritional yeast adds a cheesy flavor to the feta cheese, but if you don’t have it or prefer not to use it, you can omit it from the recipe. The feta cheese will still have a tangy taste from the other ingredients.
The vegan feta cheese can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days. Make sure to check for any signs of spoilage before consuming.
Freezing may alter the texture of the feta cheese, so it’s not recommended. It’s best enjoyed fresh or stored in the refrigerator for a few days.
Easy Tofu Feta Cheese
Ingredients
- 1 block extra firm tofu, pressed
- ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil
- 3 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tbsp red wine vinegar (can sub apple cider vinegar)
- 2 tbsp nutritional yeast
- 1 tbsp italian seasoning
- ½ tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp white miso paste
Instructions
- In a medium sized airtight container add in olive oil, vinegar, nutritional yeast, Italian spice, onion powder, garlic powder, salt and white miso paste. Mix well to combine.
- Cut the tofu into bite sized cubes, and add into the marinade. Close the lid and shake gently to coat all tofu pieces in the marinade.
- Allow to marinate for at least 1 hour, serve as a snack or on any dish you would enjoy feta cheese!
Notes
Nutrition
Conclusion
With its creamy texture, tangy flavor, and versatility, this homemade dairy-free alternative will elevate your culinary creations to new heights. Whether you sprinkle it over salads, stuff it into sandwiches, or use it as a savory snack, your taste buds are in for a treat.
Remember to play around with the marinade and adjust the seasonings to suit your preferences. Don’t be afraid to get creative and explore different variations and serving ideas. Enjoy the satisfaction of knowing you’ve created a plant-based feta cheese that captures the essence of the traditional favorite.
So great band quick loved it also healthy
Thanks so much Fallon!