What is vegan cheese made of? It’s an assortment of plant-based ingredients. You’ll find that most vegan cheese brands are made from things like cashews, tapioca, coconut, tofu, almonds, soy and nutritional yeast.

Here’s the deal-breaker question: Does vegan cheese taste like regular cheese? In my experience, yes! And when it melts, it has a perfectly gooey (not chewy) consistency that most traditional cheeses can’t touch.

Violife

Do you miss grating fresh Parmesan onto your pasta or pizza? Check out Violife’s Just Like Parmesan Wedge. It crumbles and shreds just like a true Italian Parm but is dairy-, soy-, nut- and gluten free so it’s perfect for almost anyone with food allergies. Grate it over our vegan pasta salad for a picnic treat.

Vevan Foods

Located in southwest Wisconsin, Vevan Foods is taking on the dairy-based cheese industry right in their own backyard, and doing a good job of it. They currently offer three flavors, Ched, Mozza and P’Jack, in shreds and slices. The P’Jack has a spicy kick, perfect in any warm and toasty panini.

Good Foods

When Tex-Mex food is on the menu, queso is almost a must. Good Foods cauliflower-based queso has a nice bite and creamy texture, great for dipping or pouring on top of burritos. Their full line of products includes a Ranch dip, Buffalo and Tzatziki, all plant-based and ready to serve.

Moocho

If you’re looking for cheddar- or mozzarella-like shreds, Moocho offers up dairy-free shreds that melt beautifully and taste even better. Layer their mozzarella shreds in lasagna or baked pastas, pile their fiesta blend in tacos and load up casseroles with their cheddar shreds.

GoVeggie! Foods

Satisfy your cheese cravings with GoVeggie vegan cheese slices, shreds, blocks and spreads. They even have grated vegan Parmesan. GoVeggie products have roughly six grams of protein per serving and 50% less fat than traditional dairy cheese, which makes this stuff a vegan go-to. Want to make your own vegan cheese? Check out this creamy cashew cheese recipe!

Daiya Foods

Daiya Foods offers a variety of dairy-free, plant-based products, including vegan cheese sticks, cheesy mac-and-vegan-cheese and more. The best part? Your taste buds won’t know the difference. Daiya’s stuff is deliciously cheesy and free from gluten, soy, eggs, fish and shellfish. To find the right milk, check out the results of our taste test to find our picks for the best non-dairy milk.

Follow Your Heart

Years ago, Follow Your Heart was a simple mom-and-pop sandwich counter. Now, the company is a full-blown international brand that makes everything from sliced and shredded vegan cheeses to vegan mayo. (That would be the famous Veganaise!) Hosting a vegan dinner party? Here are vegan recipes even the meat-eaters love.

Kite Hill Artisan Vegan Cheese

If you’re in the mood for Italian, Kite Hill is the place to look for rich ricotta, creamy nondairy spreads. In an effort to make vegan cheese that actually tastes good, celebrity chef Tal Ronnen, cheesemaker Monte Casino and Stanford biochemist Dr. Pat Brown joined forces to create a plant-based cheese that could beat a tasty traditional dairy cheese. What’s their secret? High-end almonds!

Going vegan doesn’t have to be difficult. Here’s a seven-day vegan meal plan to get you started.

Three Girls Vegan Creamery

Three Girls Vegan Creamery is an Italian, plant-based eatery in Guilford, Connecticut. Every day the girls are serving up cheesy homemade Italian classics, from gluten-free lasagna to vegan mac and cheese balls. Luckily, you don’t need to go to Connecticut to try their food. Three Girls offers shipping throughout the U.S., so you can enjoy their cannoli dip, almond ricotta and dairy-free cream cheese whenever you’d like.

Treeline Treenut Cheese

Treeline Treenut Cheeses are crafted from cashew nuts that have been naturally cultured and flavored to perfection. Choose from soft French-style nut cheeses, aged nut cheeses and Treeline’s premium New York Style cashew cream cheese. Want to try a little bit of everything? Treeline actually offers variety packs for the vegan-curious.

Miyoko’s Creamery

Celebrity chef Miyoko Schinner is the mastermind behind Miyoko’s Creamery. Growing up as a vegetarian ignited Miyoko’s passion for flavorful French gourmet cheeses. In hopes of combining her love for animals and her appetite for fine food, Miyoko created Miyoko’s Creamery so you can shop for anything from vegan cheese wheels to vegan butter.

So Delicious Dairy-Free Shreds

So Delicious Dairy-Free Shreds are exactly what they sounds like—dairy-free shreds that transform into gooey deliciousness when melted. You can even find So Delicious shreds at most grocery stores. Look for cheddar jack, cheddar or mozzarella for all your vegan cooking needs! Bonus: So Delicious also sells dairy-free frozen treats like vegan ice cream.

The post 12 of the Best Vegan Cheese Brands You Can Buy appeared first on Taste Recipes.

Roe & Co. Irish Whiskey

This brand pays homage to George Roe, a well-known whiskey maker of the 19th century. Released in March 2017, Roe & Co. is described as a “non-chill filtered Irish whiskey.” It’s bottled at 90 proof and emits soft notes of pear, apple and caramel. This is how to drink whiskey neat.

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Teeling Single Grain Irish Whiskey

If you’re looking for a unique taste, Teeling Single Grain is the way to go. Following the distilling process, this Irish whiskey matures in California cabernet sauvignon casks. The result? An intense, fruity-tasting amber liquid.

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The Tyrconnell 16-Year-Old Irish Whiskey

For years, The Tyrconnell has been turning out quality, cask-finished Irish whiskey. This single malt, however, is possibly the best the brand has created. Made entirely from Irish barley, this double-distilled whiskey is filled with flavors of warming vanilla, citrus, rounded spice and graham cracker. Use this popular brand in Irish whiskey drinks.

Johnnie Walker Gold Label Reserve Scotch Whisky

You’ve probably heard about Johnnie Walker in a song or two. There’s a reason sorrowful country singers chose JW—its smooth, refined taste. Celebrated by Scotch drinkers everywhere, Johnnie Walker Gold Label Reserve is a harmonious blend of Speyside and Highland whisky with subtle woodsy notes.

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Arran Robert Burns Single Malt Scotch Whisky

In honor of Scotland’s national poet, Robert Burns, Arran released a Scotch whisky in his name—the Arran Robert Burns Single Malt. Made at the award-winning Isle of Arran Distillery, the Arran Robert Burns Single Malt is perfect for sipping. It will leave you with sweet and creamy notes of toffee-glazed pecans, fresh summer fruits and honey.

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Macallan Sherry Oak 12 Years Old

The Macallan Sherry Oak 12 Years Old is a true classic. Aged in specially-selected sherry seasoned oak casks, this Scotch whisky offers a “richness and complexity” like no other. It’s perfect for serving to guests as an after-dinner drink.

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Jack Daniel’s Tennessee Straight Rye Whiskey

Crafted using water from Lynchburg’s Cave Spring Hollow, Jack Daniel’s Tennessee Straight Rye Whiskey is undeniably spicy, yet smooth enough to sip. Made with 70% rye, 18% corn and 12% malted barley, this rye will add a bit of a kick to your usual whiskey drinks.

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Crown Royal Northern Harvest Rye Whisky

Crown Royal Northern Harvest Rye Whisky is an award-winning, light-bodied dream that pairs well with just about anything. In 2016, it was awarded World Whisky of the Year from Jim Murray’s Whisky Bible—making it the very first Canadian whisky to earn the title. In 2017, Crown claimed the title of Canadian Whisky of the Year.

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Redemption 10 Year Barrel Proof Rye

If heat is what you’re looking for, then Redemption 10 Year Barrel Proof Rye should be your first pick. Named one of Whiskey Advocate’s Top 10 Whiskeys to Try, Redemption 10 Year Barrel Proof Rye is the perfect combo of sage, dill and caramel.

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Evan Williams Black Label

Don’t let its affordability fool you. Evan Williams Black Label is a bestselling Kentucky straight bourbon for a reason. It’s smooth, sweet and loaded with flavor—which is surprising for an 86 proof whiskey. If you’re easing yourself into the would of bourbon, I’d definitely recommend Evan Williams Black Label. Sip neat or use it to make a mint julep.

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Maker’s Mark

Maker’s Mark is probably one of the most well-known bourbon whiskey brands out there. It’s easy to find and even easier to drink. Even people who don’t drink whiskey will recognize the iconic red wax-sealed bottle. Like Evan Williams, Maker’s Mark is a great way to get into bourbon without (unintentionally) assaulting your taste buds.

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Knob Creek Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey

Knob Creek is a full-proof, full-of-flavor bourbon. It’s robust, woody and unapologetic in taste. Despite its high proof, Knob Creek is sweet, with notes of caramel and maple. If you like flavorful bourbon with power, Knob Creek is the brand for you. Try it straight up, in an Old Fashioned or Boulevardier.

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Ballantine’s Blended Scotch

Created in 1910, Ballantine’s Finest blended Scotch whisky hits the spot whenever you’re in the mood for something that’s slightly sweet. Its complex yet elegant blend of both single malt and single grain whisky offers a gentle nose of honey, vanilla and fresh bread. See how Scotch compares to other types of whiskey.

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Suntory Hibiki 21-Year-Old

This year, Suntory’s Hibiki 21-Year-Old won the title of World’s Best Blended Whisky for the sixth time. Judges describe this blended Japanese whisky as “elegant, sweet and complex. This whisky is full of dried fruit, orange peel, strawberry jam and baked apple from start to finish.” What’s not to love about that?

The post The Most Popular Whiskey Brands for Sipping and Cocktails appeared first on Taste Recipes.

Getting braces seems to be a rite of passage for most teens. And the first few days post-op (or post-adjustment) can be uncomfortable. You’ll feel a bit of tenderness and soreness, but don’t worry. This is perfectly normal! (To help ease the pain, we’ve come up with a list of soft food recipes for the day after).

Usually, patients begin feeling better within two or three days. Even so, it’s not uncommon for your cheeks, lips and tongue to become irritated as they’re getting accustomed to the braces. And throughout the duration of your treatment, there are certain foods you should avoid eating so as not to risk damaging the wires or your teeth. Luckily, we’ve put together a list of tasty foods you are able to eat.

Yogurt

Yogurt is high in protein, calcium and gut-healthy probiotics (AKA “good bacteria”). This extra boost of probiotics can benefit your gums by pushing out any bad bacteria that may cause cavities. Plus, yogurt makes for a healthy breakfast, lunch or snack whenever your teeth are sore because you don’t have to chew it! Be sure to brush your teeth afterward, though. Even something as healthy as yogurt has naturally-occurring sugars that can lead to tooth decay. Pro tip: Save money by making DIY yogurt in your kitchen.

Pancakes

Having yogurt for breakfast every morning can get old quick. The good news? Pancakes, waffles and muffins (without nuts) are all on the list of foods you can eat with braces. You should steer clear of syrup and anything else sugary, sticky and sweet, though, as these tasty treats can get caught in your braces, leaving you susceptible to cavities. Like yogurt, pancakes open a world of opportunity when it comes to toppings (and filling!). Skip the mix and go crazy with your own take on pancakes with this simple how-to on making pancakes from scratch.

Fish

Pork, beef and even chicken can be difficult to eat—especially if putting pressure on your teeth causes pain. If you find yourself craving meat, fish is the perfect alternative. It’s not only easy to chew but according to researchers at Harvard Medical School, the omega-3 fatty acids in fish have been proven to lower the rate of gum disease. This is because omega-3 fights bacteria-causing inflammation. Fatty fish like Atlantic mackerel and salmon are packed with vitamin D, which allows your body to absorb and use calcium effectively. Calcium should be a critical part of your diet post-op because it protects the gums and teeth from disease. Looking for some pescatarian inspiration? Here are easy fish dinners you can make in 30 minutes or less.

Soup

Soup is the ultimate comfort food. It’s a go-to for sick days, cozy nights on the couch and the perfect meal for new braces or an aching mouth. We’re not opposed to store-bought soup, but we recommend putting in a bit of work to make homemade soup. Why? Because homemade soup is loaded with minerals, gelatin and collagen—all of which make for healthy, strong bones and teeth! Plus, the vitamins and protein found in homemade broth can increase your healing rate.

Sweet Potatoes

If you’re in the mood for something sweet (and substantial), try adding a few sweet potatoes to your weekly routine. Sweet potatoes are packed with vitamin A, which has been proven to help keep your teeth and gums healthy. What’s more? Sweet potatoes are versatile. You can fry, mash, bake, steam or even broil them for a delicious snack or side dish.

Eggs

Eggs are a multifaceted source of protein and phosphorous. When combined with vitamin D and calcium, phosphorus works its magic to build strong bones and teeth. The best part? Eggs can be eaten for breakfast, lunch or dinner. Pack boiled eggs for lunch or scramble a veggie-filled omelet for dinner—no matter how you cook them, eggs are soft enough for even the sorest mouth.

Cooked Veggies & Fruits

Crunchy carrots and other veggies can do serious damage to your braces, creating pain and unnecessary trips to the orthodontist’s office to fix loose wires. It’s best to avoid raw fruits and vegetables until your adjustment period (the first few weeks) has passed. Even then, you should be careful. We’re not saying you need to give up your fruits and veggies completely, but you will need to do a bit of prep. Try cutting your fruits into small, bite-sized chunks. If you’re a fan of corn on the cob, cut the kernels off before eating. Slow-cooked vegetables also make for a tasty and satisfying side dish.

Smoothies

Smoothies and juices are a great way to get nutrients without making a full-on meal. Smoothies are also the perfect “food” for days when your braces have your gums feeling extra sensitive. Load up your blender with one of these tasty recipes. Or, get creative and make your own concoction! Either way, smoothies are a simple way to fill your stomach on the go.

Pasta

Pasta is delicious, filling, and super easy to make. (It’s also easy to chew!) You can chow down on spaghetti, ravioli, macaroni and cheese and any other noodle your heart desires. Increase the nutritional value of your meal by using whole wheat pasta or bean- and legume-based noodles. You can also try adding tons of veggies and no-sugar-added, low-sodium pasta sauce. Hungry yet? Here are some incredible five-star pasta recipes to get you started.

The post 9 Foods You Can Eat With Braces appeared first on Taste Recipes.

Promote Weight Loss

Eggplants are high in fiber and low in calories, making them the perfect addition to any weight loss plan. Bonus: Eggplants are super versatile! You can bake them into a scrumptious eggplant Parm, mash them into a baba ghanoush or twirl them into rollatini—the possibilities are endless.

Improve Memory

Eggplant skin isn’t just pretty and purple, it’s covered with a powerful antioxidant called nasunin that protects brain cell membranes and assists in the transport of nutrients and the removal of waste. What’s more? Nasunin has also been proven to prevent neuroinflammation and increase blood flow—which could help improve memory.

Build Strong Bones

Tired of milk? Throw an eggplant in the juicer! The natural plant compounds in this wondrous fruit have been proven to reduce osteoporosis, promote stronger bones and increase bone density. Eggplants are also packed with iron and calcium—two very important minerals for bone health.

Combat Dry Skin

Skin tends to get dry, especially during the winter months. Prep for winter (or take a self-care day) by whipping up an eggplant facial mask. All you’ll need is half a cup of shredded eggplant, 2 Tbsp. aloe juice and 1 tsp. honey. Stir them up and spread them on your skin. Let it sit for 10-15 minutes, then wash off completely. Next, try this avocado mask.

Boost Hair Growth

Eggplants contain healthy enzymes that stimulate the hair follicles, which promotes healthy hair growth. Eggplant is also high in water content, which helps to restore and soften those pesky brittle strands. Wash your hair with eggplant juice to maintain the natural shine and luster of your hair. Here are more foods to eat for a lustrous mane.

Prevent Signs of Aging

Eggplants deliver some vitamin C, which protects our skin and body from oxidative damage. Vitamin C also prevents other signs of aging, including fine lines, wrinkles and dark spots.

Lower Blood Pressure

You know that beautiful purply-black skin we’ve been talking about? Well, it turns out it’s not just good for your brain but for your blood pressure, too. Eggplants contain anthocyanin, which has been proven to drop patients’ blood pressure.

Balance Blood Sugar Levels

Adding eggplant to your diet may keep your glucose levels in check. This is because eggplants are high in fiber. Fiber can lower the blood sugar by slowing the rate of digestion and the absorption of sugar — slower absorption not only keeps glucose levels balanced, but it also prevents spikes and crashes.

Rich in Nutrients

This superfood is a wonderful alternative when you’re trying to cut down on calories, but are still craving something hearty and delicious. Here are approximate nutritional specs per 1 cup cooked eggplant (99g):

• Calories: 35
• Total Carbohydrate: 8.64g
• Dietary Fiber: 2.5g
• Copper: .1mg
• Vitamin B1: .1mg
• Manganese: .1mg
• Vitamin B6: 85mcg
• Vitamin B3: .6mg
• Vitamin K: 2.9mcg
• Folate: 14mcg

Hungry yet? Try our favorite eggplant recipes.

The post 9 Amazing Health Benefits of Eggplants appeared first on Taste Recipes.

Fiesta Taco Plates

Tacos are amazing, there’s no doubt about that. But, they’re also messy—which is why this set of fiesta taco plates ($17) is #1 on our list. The colorful plates are equipped with three taco-shaped compartments, in addition to two slots for beans, rice, guac or whatever else your taco-loving heart desires. Plus, they’re microwave-safe, which makes reheating so easy. Put the plates to work with our top taco recipes.

Purchase here.

The Taco Cleanse

We’re not usually ones to promote a cleanse, but this so-called taco cleanse is worth the read. Created and published by a group of vegan taco scientists (who knew there was such a thing?) The Taco Cleanse ($18) offers readers an inside look at authentic Tex-Mex cuisine. Learn how to make tortillas, whip up fresh picadillo and much more.

Purchase here.

Guacamole Serving Dish

It seems like most taco enthusiasts are also fans of guacamole. What better present to get a guac-o-holic than a guacamole serving dish set ($19) featuring the mantra: “It’s five o’guac somewhere?” Each dish also comes with a six-inch serving spoon stamped with the phrase “Holy Guacamole.” Next, check out these crazy (and delicious!) ways to top your guac.

Purchase here.

Cast-Iron Tortilla Press

If the taco lover in your life is a serious connoisseur, he or she may need a tortilla press ($24). With over 1,500 Amazon reviews, this cast iron beauty is the press to get. It’s heavy-duty and perfect for pressing tortillas (of course), tostones, arepas (try out this arepas recipe!), empanadas or mini pie shells. Just pick up the ingredients you’ll need at any Mexican grocery store.

Purchase here.

Ceramic Tortilla Warmer

What good is a tortilla press if you don’t have somewhere to store the goods? (You know, in the few seconds before they’re devoured.) This ceramic tortilla warmer ($23) is perfect for warming or reheating tortillas, pitas, flatbread, waffles, biscuits and more. And unlike most tortilla warmers, the Uno Casa has a tight-fitting lid that locks in freshness, keeping your tortillas tasty for longer. Use your tortillas to make these delicious apps.

Purchase here.

World’s First Tortilla Toaster

Did you know you can actually buy a tortilla toaster? Neither did we, until we came across the “World’s First Tortilla Toaster” ($65). Why a tortilla toaster, you ask? It’s easier than warming tortillas on the stove. And way better than warming tortillas in the microwave—which can make them soggy and inedible if done incorrectly. If you like your shells on the crispy side, this baby is built to toast up to six tortillas at the same time.

Purchase here.

Home Bar Set

Taco night isn’t really taco night without margaritas, right? This 14-piece home bar set ($40) includes everything your taco enthusiast would need to make margaritas (here’s how), sangria, martinis or any other concoctions. This drink mixer set is also equipped with a chilling effect to enhance the flavor of your cocktail, whatever it may be.

Purchase here.

Unicorn Taco Holder

This has to be one of the best gifts for taco lovers! Let your little ones gallop to the dinner table and devour their tacos with pizzazz, thanks to this unicorn taco holder ($15). If your tiny taco lover is a picky eater, this adorable collectible is the perfect way to entice them to gobble up other foods, too, like waffles, sandwiches or one of these magical recipes.

Purchase here.

Condiment Server Caddy

Make taco night easier with this condiment server caddy ($28). Instead of dirtying five separate bowls, this caddy can hold the lettuce, tomatoes, onions, peppers, cheese and other fixins’. Plus, they’ll stay nice and cool.

Purchase here.

Heated Chip and Dip Tray

Your taco lover will be the hostess with the mostess with this heated chip and dip tray ($55). Because nothing’s worse than a tub of cold, wet queso. Fill ‘er up with one of these creamy and cheesy dip recipes.

Purchase here.

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