Vegan Mac & Cheese with Broccoli is a comforting and nutritious twist on the beloved classic macaroni and cheese. This plant-based rendition invites everyone, including vegans, those with dairy intolerances, and health-conscious eaters, to indulge in a creamy, cheesy pasta dish without any animal-derived ingredients. By pairing the rich, savory flavors of vegan cheese alternatives with the vibrant, crunchy texture of fresh broccoli, this dish fulfills the craving for hearty comfort food while providing an extra serving of greens.
The ‘cheese’ sauce is often made from a base of cashews or potatoes and carrots that are blended to a silky smooth texture, with nutritional yeast adding the quintessential cheesy flavor. Spices such as garlic powder, onion powder, turmeric for color, and a pinch of mustard deepen the taste, emulating the nostalgic essence of traditional mac and cheese. Almond milk or another plant-based milk may be used to adjust the creaminess of the sauce.
In addition, broccoli not only brings a pop of color but also amps up the nutritional value, offering fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants. Vegan Mac & Cheese with Broccoli is perfect as a main course or a side dish, lending itself well to customization with additional veggies or spices according to personal preference. This dish proves that vegan cuisine can be just as rich and gratifying as its non-vegan counterparts, making it a fantastic choice for family dinners, potlucks, or any meal where comfort is desired.
Vegan Mac & Cheese with Broccoli recipe
Vegan Mac & Cheese with Broccoli
Equipment
- 1 medium pot
- 1 small saucepan
Ingredients
- 7 oz. broccoli florets
- 7 oz. dry whole-grain macaroni
- For Cheese Sauce
- 2 medium-sized potatoes cooked and chopped
- 1/2 medium-sized carrot chopped
- 1 small onion chopped
- 1 medium clove garlic minced
- 1/4 cup soy milk
- 4 tbsp nutritional yeast
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1/2 cup cashews soaked for at least 30 minutes to 1 hour
- 3/4 cup water
- 1 tsp sea salt
- Pinch of cayenne
- Pinch of paprika
Instructions
- Cook the pasta in a medium pot according to the direction on the pack. Add the broccoli florets 5 after cooking.
- Remove the pot from the heat once the pasta and broccoli is softens, drain and set aside.
- Meanwhile, heat a small saucepan over medium heat add onion, garlic and carrot, add water or vegetable broth and bring to a boil over medium heat until the carrot is softened. Add the cooked potatoes and let it heat for a while.
- Transfer to the bowl of a high powered blender and add other ingredients for the sauce and blend until smooth
- To assemble, transfer the pasta and broccoli into a serving large bowl and top with the sauce and mix with spoon until well mixed and coated. Enjoy!
- Store any leftover in an air tight container and keep in the fridge. It’s more delicious the next day, use within a week, it also freeze well.
Cooking Tips about Vegan Mac & Cheese with Broccoli
- Choice of Pasta: Choose pasta that holds sauce well, such as shells, macaroni, or rotini. Whole wheat or gluten-free options work if you have dietary restrictions.
- Blanch the Broccoli: Blanch the broccoli in boiling water for a couple of minutes to preserve its vibrant green color and nutrients before mixing it into your dish.
- Creamy Sauce Base: Create a velvety cheese sauce using cashews soaked and blended until smooth. Alternatively, use a mixture of potatoes, carrots, and onions boiled and blended for those with nut allergies.
- Nutritional Yeast: Don’t skimp on nutritional yeast; this is essential for achieving that cheesy flavor without real cheese.
- Season to Taste: Experiment with garlic powder, onion powder, mustard powder, turmeric (for color), and a bit of smoked paprika to deepen the flavors of your ‘cheese’ sauce.
- Gradually Add Liquid: When mixing your sauce, add almond milk or any plant-based milk gradually to control the consistency, aiming for creamy rather than runny.
- Combine Well with Pasta: Ensure that your cooked pasta is well coated with the cheese sauce for maximum flavor in every bite.
- Add Crunch: Consider topping your mac and cheese with a sprinkle of breadcrumbs and baking for a few minutes for a delightful crunch.
- Incorporate the Broccoli: Mix steamed or blanched broccoli florets into the dish at the end so they keep their texture and don’t get mushy.
- Let Sit Before Serving: Allow the dish to sit for a couple of minutes after baking, as the ‘cheese’ sauce will continue to thicken, providing a better texture and flavor.
Serving suggestions about Vegan Mac & Cheese with Broccoli
- Main Course Delight: Serve it as a hearty main dish, perfect for satisfying comfort food cravings while delivering a dose of greens thanks to the broccoli.
- Buffet Side Dish: Include it in a buffet spread as a side that will compliment a variety of plant-based mains, from vegan roasts to grilled vegetables.
- Customizable Toppings: Offer a toppings bar with options like crushed red pepper, vegan bacon bits, toasted breadcrumbs, or additional nutritional yeast for guests to customize their portions.
- Baked Casserole: Transfer the mixed mac and cheese into a baking dish, add a breadcrumb topping with a drizzle of melted vegan butter, and bake until golden brown for a deliciously crispy top layer.
- Kid-Friendly Fare: The familiar flavors and creamy texture make it an excellent option for kids. Serve with a side of fruit for a balanced meal.
- Potluck Contribution: It’s a great potluck dish that can be made in large quantities ahead of time, kept warm in a slow cooker, and served amongst friends and family.
- With Crispy Tofu: Add pan-fried or baked crispy tofu cubes on top for added protein and texture contrast.
- Stir in Some Heat: For those who like it spicy, stir in some hot sauce or diced jalapeños before serving for an extra kick.
- Comforting Soup Addition: Make a mac and cheese soup by thinning out the dish with some vegetable broth – cozy and soothing for colder days.
- Lunchbox Idea: It’s also a great meal to pack for lunch the next day, as it reheats well and the flavors continue to meld overnight.
Top 5 FAQs about Vegan Mac & Cheese with Broccoli
- What ingredients are used to make the “cheese” sauce in Vegan Mac & Cheese with Broccoli? The cheese sauce is commonly made from a combination of cashews or vegetables like potatoes and carrots, blended until smooth. Nutritional yeast is added for its cheesy flavor alongside unsweetened plant-based milk for creaminess.
- How can I ensure that my broccoli stays vibrant and doesn’t become mushy? You should blanch the broccoli by cooking it in boiling water for just a couple of minutes. This helps preserve its bright green color and crunch before you add it to the mac and cheese.
- Is Vegan Mac & Cheese with Broccoli a healthy meal option? Yes, this meal is not only comforting but can also be quite nutritious. It provides fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants thanks to the inclusion of broccoli, and is typically lower in saturated fat than traditional mac and cheese since it’s dairy-free.
- Can I make this dish gluten-free? Absolutely! Just opt for gluten-free pasta such as those made from rice, quinoa, or legumes. Be sure to check that all other ingredients, such as plant-based milk and nutritional yeast, are certified gluten-free as well.
- How long does Vegan Mac & Cheese with Broccoli last in the fridge, and can it be frozen? Stored in an airtight container, it can last for 3-5 days in the refrigerator. Yes, it can be frozen. Freeze individual portions and then thaw and reheat in the microwave, adding a little plant-based milk if necessary to loosen up the sauce.
In conclusion, Vegan Mac & Cheese with Broccoli is more than just a plant-based alternative to a comfort food classic; it’s a culinary celebration of flavor and nutrition. Embracing the richness of a creamy ‘cheese’ sauce made from wholesome ingredients like cashews or blended vegetables and the savory punch of nutritional yeast, this dish delights the palate while also catering to ethical and health-conscious considerations.
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