EASY CASHEW QUESO (dairy-free)

This quick vegan Cashew Queso is made with pantry ingredients in one container! It's cheesy and creamy with a hint of heat making it a perfect addition to your Mexican-inspired dishes. Add a healthy drizzle over sheet-pan nachos, enchiladas, tacos, burritos and tostadas or enjoy as a dip with tortilla chips and guacamole.

Yields about 1 1/2 cups

Ingredients:

• 1 cup raw cashews* (see note)

• 1 cup boiling water

• 1 (4 ounce) can diced green chiles, mild

• 2 Tbsp Frank’s Original Red Hot (or Cholula)

• 3 Tbsp nutritional yeast

• ½ tsp garlic powder

• ½ tsp onion powder

• ¼ tsp turmeric powder

• 1/4 tsp sea salt, or to taste

• 8 twists freshly ground black pepper

Method:

1. To a high-speed blender, add all the ingredients. Combine until smooth and creamy, about 1-2 minutes.

2. Taste and adjust seasonings - adding more Frank’s for heat, and salt for saltiness.

*NOTE: If you don’t have a high-speed blender, soak the cashews in hot water for one hour, then discard soaking water. Blend all ingredients (including fresh hot water) in a food processor or blender until smooth and creamy, about 4 minutes or so.