Cooking With Plants Recipe by Anja Cass

08 December 2025

This creamy vegan smoked paprika cheese is completely nut-free, soy-free and oil-free, making it a great option for anyone with allergies or wanting a whole-food plant-based cheese alternative. The combination of oats, sweet potato and chargrilled bell pepper creates a rich, smoky, sliceable cheese that grates, melts and sets beautifully.

Ingredients

Blender Mixture

• 1 cup water

• 1 cup oats

• 1 cup steamed sweet potato

• 1 chargrilled red bell pepper (marinated in vinegar, no oil)

• 1/2 cup nutritional yeast

• 1 tbsp smoked paprika

• 2 1/2 tsp Celtic sea salt

• 1/2 tsp white pepper

• 1 tsp onion powder

• 1 tsp garlic powder

• 2 tbsp lemon juice

• 1 cup additional water

Agar Base

• 1 1/3 cups water

• 2 1/2 tbsp agar agar powder

Instructions

Step 1: Blend the Cheese Base

1. Add all blender ingredients into a high-powered blender.

2. Blend for about 1 minute until smooth, creamy and well-combined.

3. Set aside while preparing the agar mixture.

Step 2: Activate the Agar Agar

1. Add 1 1/3 cups water and 2 1/2 tbsp agar agar powder to a saucepan.

2. Cook over high heat for about 2 minutes, whisking constantly until it comes to a boil and begins to thicken.

3. Reduce heat and continue whisking for another 3–4 minutes to fully activate the agar.

4. Turn off heat and immediately transfer the hot mixture into the blender.

Step 3: Blend Again

1. Work quickly, as agar begins to set fast.

2. Pulse and then blend for another minute until the mixture becomes glossy and thick.

Step 4: Set the Cheese

1. Pour the cheese mixture into containers or molds of your choice.

2. Smooth the tops so they set evenly.

3. Refrigerate for about 30 minutes or until firm.

4. Remove from molds. Your cheese should slice, grate and hold its shape perfectly.

Serving Suggestions

This smoked paprika cheese is delicious with:

• Crackers and olives

• Jalapeños

• Wraps and sandwiches

• Pasta dishes

• Plant-based grazing boards

You can also customise the flavour by adding extra herbs, chilli flakes, peppercorns or garlic.