This week on Talkin' Tofu, we're getting cheesy. Vegan cheesy. Let's try the Epic Mature Cheddar block from Violife!
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We bought and taste tested this vegan cheddar cheese block. Here's what we thought about it. Below, you can find our review along with the answers to some frequently asked questions about Violin's cheddar block.
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Violife Cheddar Block review
If you want the short story on this block, Dave and I both liked it! We'd like to buy it again to make delicious sandwiches.
The longer story is that -- while this block is creamy, cheesy, and delicious -- I'm not sure that calling it mature was the best call. Maybe this is just my own preference, but when I picture a mature cheddar, I think of one with serious bite.
Dave did say that he thinks this had a nice bite, but to me, it was more like a (very good) mild cheddar.
The cheese did have a nice, smooth, creamy texture. It would be great for cutting up for a cheese board or a cheese-and-crackers snack.
We also talked about what you could do with this cheese to get that more sharp experience, and a sandwich with plenty of Dijon mustard was our conclusion. Maybe throw on some vegan deli slices and a handful of ruffled potato chips, why not?
Frequently asked questions
Yes! This vegan cheese does melt. If you're having trouble getting it to melt on top of a casserole, sprinkle a couple of tablespoons of water on top, cover with foil, and cook for a few more minutes. The steam from the water will help with melting.
The block is sturdy enough that it will hold up to grating with a regular cheese grater. You can also grate it in your food processor, if you prefer, to save time.
Violife Cheddar is coconut oil-based with cornstarch and potato starch to thicken it.
Here's the complete ingredients list, as of this writing: Filtered water, coconut oil, food starch - modified (potato and corn), potato starch, sea salt, organic ground sunflower kernel, mature cheddar flavor (vegan source), vegan source lactic acid, olive extract, beta carotene (natural vegan color), vitamin B12
Violife Epic Mature cheddar tasted like a nice, mild cheddar. It didn't have the acidity of a sharp cheddar, but it's definitely a delicious mild vegan cheddar cheese.
Yes! It's also soy-free, nut-free, and certified non-GMO.
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