Brazil Nut 'Parmesan'
This 5-minute Brazil Nut 'Parmesan' is a surprisingly effective and delicious vegan alternative to traditional cheese, perfect for adding a savory, umami boost to your favorite dishes.
For 12 servings
Measure all ingredients accurately and have them ready. Ensure your Brazil nuts are raw and unsalted.
Add the Brazil nuts, nutritional yeast, garlic powder, onion powder, and fine sea salt to the bowl of a food processor. If desired, add the optional black pepper.
Secure the lid on the food processor. Pulse the mixture in short bursts, typically 1-2 seconds per pulse, to begin breaking down the nuts.
After every 5-7 pulses, stop the food processor and use a spatula to scrape down the sides of the bowl. This ensures all ingredients are evenly incorporated and processed.
Continue pulsing and scraping until the mixture reaches a coarse, crumbly texture that closely resembles grated Parmesan cheese. It should be fine but not pasty.
Be careful not to over-process the mixture. If processed for too long, the Brazil nuts will release their natural oils and turn into a butter or paste, losing the desired crumbly texture.
Taste the Brazil Nut 'Parmesan' and adjust the seasoning as needed. You may add more salt, nutritional yeast for cheesiness, or garlic/onion powder for deeper savoriness, pulsing briefly to combine.
Transfer the finished Brazil Nut 'Parmesan' to an airtight container for storage.
What to keep in mind.
4 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1Avoid over-processing: The key to the right texture is short, controlled pulses. Over-processing will turn it into nut butter.
- 2Adjust seasoning to taste: Don't be afraid to taste and adjust the salt, nutritional yeast, or garlic/onion powder to match your preference.
- 3For a finer texture: If you prefer a very fine 'Parmesan', you can sift it through a fine-mesh sieve after processing, then re-process any larger pieces.
- 4Storage is key: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain freshness and prevent the nuts from going rancid, especially in warmer climates.
Adapt it for your goals.
Spicy Kick
Add 1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon of red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the mixture before processing for a subtle heat.
Herbaceous BlendHerbaceous Blend
Incorporate 1/2 teaspoon of dried oregano, basil, or Italian seasoning for an aromatic, herb-infused 'Parmesan'.
Nut Free OptionNut-Free Option
For a nut-free version, substitute roasted sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds for the Brazil nuts. Adjust processing time as needed.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Rich in Selenium
Brazil nuts are an excellent source of selenium, a powerful antioxidant that supports thyroid function and boosts the immune system.
B Vitamin Boost
Nutritional yeast is packed with B vitamins (including B12 if fortified), which are essential for energy metabolism, nerve function, and red blood cell production.
Plant-Based & Dairy-Free
This recipe offers a delicious and healthy alternative for those avoiding dairy, providing savory flavor without cholesterol or lactose.
Frequently asked questions
When stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator, it can last for up to 2-3 weeks. You can also freeze it for longer storage, up to 2-3 months.
