Vegan Chipotle Cashew Crema

Smoky, creamy, and deeply flavorful-this chipotle-spiced cashew crema comes together in 10 minutes and goes with everything.

Why You'll Love Vegan Chipotle Cashew Crema

It's creamy without the cream, smoky without a grill, and bold enough to carry any dish it touches. Whether you're plant-based or just sauce-obsessed, this one's going in your regular rotation.

Tips and Tricks

• Use boiling water to quick-soak cashews if you're short on time.
• Letting the garlic sit in lime juice helps tame the raw edge while boosting citrus notes.

Variations

• Add chipotle in adobo for more heat and smoke.
• Stir in fresh cilantro for a green crema version.

Substitutions

• Sub raw sunflower seeds for cashews for a nut-free version (soaked the same way).
• White vinegar can stand in for apple cider vinegar in a pinch.

Best served with

• Grilled veggies or roasted sweet potatoes
• Tacos, burrito bowls, or nachos
• Drizzled over salads or grain bowls

How to Store Leftovers

• Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days.
• Stir before using. Freezing not recommended due to texture change.

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Vegan Chipotle Cashew Crema

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Smoky, creamy, and deeply flavorful. This chipotle-spiced cashew crema comes together in 10 minutes and goes with EVERYTHING.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Total Time 10 minutes mins

Servings: 2 cups

Course: Dressing/Condiment

Cuisine: Californian, Plant-Based

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

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• 1 cup Raw cashews unsalted
• 1 cup Water
• 1 clove Garlic
• ½ Lime juiced
• 1 tablespoon Lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon Apple cider vinegar
• 1 teaspoon Garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon Salt
• 1 teaspoon Pepper
• 1 ½ teaspoon Chili powder
• 1 ½ teaspoon Cumin
• 1 ½ teaspoon Smoked paprika

Equipment

• Blender
• Mixing bowl

Method

 

1. Soak raw cashews in water overnight (or pour boiling water over them and soak for 10 minutes to speed up).
2. Mince garlic and mix with lime juice. Let sit 30 minutes to mellow the bite.
3. Add soaked cashews, garlic-lime mix, and remaining ingredients to a blender.
4. Blend until completely smooth, adding more water to adjust consistency if needed.
5. Season with additional kosher salt to taste.

Notes

Storage: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. It will thicken as it chills, so thin with a splash of water if needed and give it a stir before serving.

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