Description
Delicious and crispy Vegan Fried Queso Bites made from creamy cashew-based cheese, coated in a crunchy breadcrumb crust and fried to golden perfection. These dairy-free appetizers are perfect for snacking or entertaining, offering a plant-based twist on classic fried cheese bites.
Ingredients
Scale
Vegan Cheese Mixture
- 1 1/2 cups raw cashews, soaked for 2 hours and drained
- 1/2 cup unsweetened plant-based milk
- 1/4 cup nutritional yeast
- 2 tablespoons tapioca starch
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon salt
Breading Station
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup unsweetened plant-based milk (for dredging)
- 1 1/2 cups breadcrumbs
For Frying
- Vegetable oil (enough for frying, about 2-3 cups)
Instructions
- Prepare the Cheese Mixture: In a blender, combine the soaked cashews, 1/2 cup plant-based milk, nutritional yeast, tapioca starch, lemon juice, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, and salt. Blend until completely smooth to create a creamy base.
- Cook the Cheese: Pour the blended mixture into a saucepan over medium heat. Stir constantly for 5 to 7 minutes until it thickens and achieves a stretchy, cheese-like consistency.
- Set the Cheese: Transfer the thickened cheese mixture into a parchment-lined dish and spread it evenly. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours until fully firm and set.
- Cut into Bites: Once firm, cut the set cheese into small bite-sized cubes suitable for frying.
- Prepare Dredging Station: Arrange three bowls—one with flour, one with plant-based milk, and one with breadcrumbs—for coating the cheese bites.
- Bread the Bites: Dip each cheese cube first in flour, then plant-based milk, and finally coat thoroughly with breadcrumbs.
- Heat the Oil: In a deep pan, heat vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C), ensuring there is enough oil to fully submerge the bites.
- Fry the Bites: Fry the breaded cheese bites in batches for 2 to 3 minutes until golden brown and crispy. Avoid overcrowding the pan.
- Drain and Serve: Remove bites with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels to remove excess oil. Serve warm for best texture and flavor.
Notes
- Add chopped jalapeños into the cheese mixture for an extra kick of flavor.
- For a healthier option, air-fry the bites at 375°F for 8 to 10 minutes, flipping halfway through.
- Freezing the cheese bites before frying makes them firmer and easier to handle during breading and frying.
