Almost Vegan Queso

Wine Pairing: Arrowleaf Cellars Riesling

This recipe has been adapted several times (based on my inability to follow a recipe) from my favourite cookbook: Fraiche Food Full Hearts

RECIPE (adapted)

Ingredients:
1 cup raw cashews
1 cup unsweetened milk of choice
1/3 cup nutritional yeast
1/2 tsp onion powder
1/2 tsp chili powder
1/2 tsp of paprika (smoked if preferred)
1/2 tsp cumin
1 tsp fresh turmeric
1 tsp garlic powder
Pickled jalapeños (number is based on your spice preference! I put about 6 slices)
1/4 cup melted butter (or vegan butter)
1/4 cup fresh cilantro
1/2 cup of your favourite salsa
2 tbsp pickled jalapeño brine
Salt and pepper to taste
1/2 cup of light lager (more if needed for desired consistency)

Directions:
- Soak cashews in milk overnight
- add all ingredients to a high speed blender and blend until smooth.
- Taste and adjust flavour / consistency as desired with available ingredients.
- Transfer to a microwave safe dish (my favourite lil dip dish is linked in bio and on my website!)
- microwave on high for 2-3 minutes, stir to mix, and then heat for another 2-3 minutes.
- Stir to smooth out the texture and add toppings of choice (I added salsa, cilantro, and pickled jalapeños).
- Serve with salted Tostitos and your favourite off-dry Riesling!