Anyone got good plant-based cheese suggestions?

I’ve tried a bunch of vegan cheeses and so far, they’ve been a letdown. The ones with probiotics to add that ‘fermented’ taste have a specific flavor that I just can’t enjoy—maybe it’s the probiotics or something else.

Most posts in this forum have lots of recommendations, but I notice that people who haven’t had real dairy in a while might taste things differently. So, I’m asking fellow vegetarians who still eat dairy sometimes—do you have any plant-based cheese that actually tastes good? I’m not expecting it to taste exactly like real cheese, but just something that satisfies that cheese craving as I try to cut down on dairy. Is Rebel Cheese as good as the hype for people who still eat dairy? What are some of your go-to brands here in the States?

I just want to avoid that ‘vegan cheese taste’ if you know what I mean!

I’ve been loving Chao cheese. Not sure if it’s fermented, but it melts really well.

Aris said:
I’ve been loving Chao cheese. Not sure if it’s fermented, but it melts really well.

I enjoyed Chao too! It’s made with fermented tofu and other ingredients.

Lennon said:

Aris said:
I’ve been loving Chao cheese. Not sure if it’s fermented, but it melts really well.

I enjoyed Chao too! It’s made with fermented tofu and other ingredients.

Sounds promising! I like Field Roast products, so I’ll give Chao a try.

@Lior
Best way to enjoy it is on a sandwich. On its own, it’s just okay, but it’s perfect for cheese toast or sandwiches with Field Roast slices.

Miyoko’s cheese is awesome, especially the mozzarella.

Briar said:
Miyoko’s cheese is awesome, especially the mozzarella.

It’s my go-to for pizza and spreading on crackers. Just love it.

Briar said:
Miyoko’s cheese is awesome, especially the mozzarella.

As a big cheese fan, Miyoko’s soft cheese tastes great. It’s like flavored chèvre without the weird aftertaste.

Briar said:
Miyoko’s cheese is awesome, especially the mozzarella.

I love their oat milk butter, so I’m happy to hear their cheese is good too!

Follow Your Heart blue cheese had me double-checking it wasn’t real when I had it at a vegan burger place. My family enjoys their feta crumbles too.

Have you tried finding a local ‘fauxmagerie’? I’ve had the best luck there.

Nyx said:
Have you tried finding a local ‘fauxmagerie’? I’ve had the best luck there.

I’ll look around! I’m in the Boston area, so there might be something in the city.

Lior said:

Nyx said:
Have you tried finding a local ‘fauxmagerie’? I’ve had the best luck there.

I’ll look around! I’m in the Boston area, so there might be something in the city.

Yeah, I’d bet there’s something nearby. Good luck!

Treeline cashew-based cheeses are great. The garlic and herb flavor reminds me of Boursin.

I like Miyoko’s at the store, but my favorites are from local vendors at farmers markets. You might find some good ones if you’re in a bigger city.

Violife cream cheese is surprisingly good. I also like the smoked gouda and feta from Follow Your Heart. Violife’s feta isn’t a perfect match, but it’s great with crackers or hummus.

Sam said:
Violife cream cheese is surprisingly good. I also like the smoked gouda and feta from Follow Your Heart. Violife’s feta isn’t a perfect match, but it’s great with crackers or hummus.

Agree on Violife and Follow Your Heart! Avoid Daiya though. For pizza, try a ‘vegan parm’ recipe—it doesn’t taste like Parmesan but works well as a dairy-free pizza topping.

@Bay
Daiya was one of the first I tried, and it turned me off of vegan cheese for a while!

Lior said:
@Bay
Daiya was one of the first I tried, and it turned me off of vegan cheese for a while!

Rebel Cheese is amazing. I always keep it stocked at home.

Tatum said:

Lior said:
@Bay
Daiya was one of the first I tried, and it turned me off of vegan cheese for a while!

Rebel Cheese is amazing. I always keep it stocked at home.

I’ve been eyeing their Thanksgiving cheese board. Think I’ll go for it!