Dairy-free alternatives are slowly but firmly replacing animal-based products like milk, cheese, yoghurt, and butter. Whether it's for health reasons, ethical beliefs, or simply to try something new, many people are choosing to reduce or eliminate dairy from their diets. Fortunately, there are plenty of dairy-free substitutes available that can be just as tasty and even healthier. It turns out that dairy-free substitutes can be both delicious and, in some cases, extremely healthy. Without using dairy products, you can still enjoy creamy and rich versions of mac and cheese, ice cream, cream of mushroom soup, whipped cream, mousse, and even grilled cheese.
Here are five dairy-free alternatives that can make your dishes creamier:
Cashew cream
Cashew cream can replace any dairy product in a creamy recipe. Made from whole foods, cashew cream is both healthy and delicious. It can be used in place of any dairy product, and it blends seamlessly into soups, sauces, pasta dishes, and desserts.
White beans
High in protein and fibre, white beans are a great substitute for dairy in savoury dishes. Simply strain the beans, add some soup stock, and blend until creamy for a quick and easy soup base. You can also use white beans to make dips or spreads in place of mayonnaise or sour cream.
Avocado
The popularity of avocados has increased with the advent of veganism. Rich and creamy, avocados are a popular choice for vegan and dairy-free diets. They make a great topping for Mexican food, and you can also use them to make a creamy pasta sauce. Just mash them up with lemon juice, roasted garlic, and your favourite herbs. Also, avocados may be used to make a fantastic creamy salad dressing by mixing them with fresh herbs like parsley, chives, and basil, as well as lemon juice, a little bit of maple syrup, and seasonings.
If you've ever had potato-leek soup, you know how creamy potatoes can be without dairy. Blended potatoes can mimic the texture of dairy, although they lack the same fatty richness. For a creamy soup, add olive oil to your blended potatoes. You can also use blended potatoes as a thickener in sauces and gravies.
Peanut butter
Creamy and flavourful, peanut butter can be used in a variety of ways to add richness to dairy-free dishes. It can be used as a thickener for soups and stews, as well as a flavour enhancer for salads and dressings. Try pairing it with Thai flavours like lime and chilli sauce for a tasty twist.
By incorporating these dairy-free substitutes into your cooking, you can enjoy all the creaminess and flavour of your favourite dishes without any of the dairy items.