What is Vegetarian Cheese?

Vegetarian cheese is a type of cheese made without the use of animal rennet. Animal rennet is an enzyme traditionally used in cheese-making to coagulate milk, turning it into curds and whey. Animal rennet is derived from the stomachs of young ruminant animals, like calves or goats.

Manufacturers use alternative coagulating agents such as microbial rennet (derived from fungi or bacteria) or plant-based enzymes from sources like fig leaves, thistles, or nettles to make cheese suitable for vegetarians.

The Tasty World of Vegetarian Cheese Explored

Cheese is a beloved staple in cuisines worldwide, prized for its rich flavour, creamy texture, and versatility in cooking and snacking. However, navigating the world of cheese can be tricky for those following a vegetarian diet. Many cheeses are made using animal-derived rennet, an enzyme that coagulates milk and separates the curds from the whey.

What Makes Vegetarian Cheese… Vegetarian?

The critical difference between vegetarian cheese and non-vegetarian cheese lies in the source of the rennet used to make it. Traditional rennet is extracted from the stomachs of young mammals, typically calves. However, vegetarian cheeses utilise alternative coagulants that are either plant-based, microbial or genetically engineered to mimic the curd-forming properties of animal rennet.

Common vegetarian rennet alternatives include:

1. Microbial rennet: Derived from fungi or bacteria, this is the most widely used rennet substitute in vegetarian cheeses.
2. Plant-based rennet: Extracted from plants like fig leaves, nettles, and thistles, this traditional method is still employed by some artisanal cheesemakers.
3. Genetically engineered rennet: Created by inserting the rennet-producing gene from calves into microorganisms like bacteria or yeast. While technically vegetarian, some may avoid this due to concerns over genetic modification.

Some cheeses may contain other animal-derived ingredients, such as rennet, whey protein concentrate, casein, or lactose, in addition to rennet. These are all acceptable for vegetarians who consume dairy. However, those following a vegan diet must seek plant-based cheese alternatives.

Types of Vegetarian Cheese

Thankfully, the range of vegetarian cheeses available is vast and varied. Many popular cheese varieties have vegetarian-friendly counterparts that are virtually indistinguishable in taste and texture from their traditional renditions. Let’s explore some of the most common types:

1. Cheddar – This quintessential British cheese is known for its sharp, tangy flavour and firm texture. Vegetarian cheddars are widely available and make an excellent choice for everything from cheese toasties to mac and cheese.
2. Mozzarella – Prized for its mild flavour and melty texture, mozzarella is a staple in Italian cuisine. Vegetarian versions work beautifully on pizzas, Caprese salads, and pasta dishes.
3. Parmesan – Known for its salty, umami-rich flavour and granular texture, Parmesan is a mainstay in Italian cooking. While traditional Parmigiano-Reggiano is always made with animal rennet, vegetarian “Parmesan-style” hard cheeses offer a great alternative.
4. Feta – This tangy, crumbly Greek cheese is traditionally made with sheep or goat’s milk, but vegetarian cow’s milk versions are also common. It’s perfect for sprinkling over salads or enjoying with olives and crusty bread.
5. Blue Cheese – Known for its bold, intense flavour and veiny appearance, it is a favourite among fromage aficionados. Vegetarian versions like Dorset Blue Vinney and Oxford Blue offer all the tangy goodness without the animal rennet.
6. Cream Cheese – A creamy, spreadable cream cheese is a versatile favourite. Most major brands, like Philadelphia, offer vegetarian options with microbial rennet.
7. Goat’s Cheese – Tangy and creamy with a subtle earthy note, goat’s cheese is lower in fat and more accessible to digest than cow’s milk cheeses. Many chèvre-style goat’s cheeses are naturally vegetarian but always check the label.
8. Paneer – This firm, non-melting Indian cottage cheese is a staple in curries and vegetarian dishes. It’s made by curdling milk with an acid like lemon juice or vinegar, so it’s almost always vegetarian-friendly.

How to Identify Vegetarian Cheeses

While increasing cheeses are now explicitly labelled as vegetarian, others may require some detective work. Here are some tips for checking out vegetarian-friendly cheeses:

1. Check the ingredients: Scan the label for any mention of rennet, enzymes, or animal products. If the rennet source isn’t specified, it’s safest to assume it’s animal-derived.
2. Look for certifications: Some cheeses may carry a “Suitable for Vegetarians” logo from the Vegetarian Society or other certifying bodies.
3. Know your cheese types: Some cheeses, like fresh goat’s cheese, cream cheese, ricotta, and paneer, are usually vegetarian by default. Still, it never hurts to double-check.
4. Ask the cheesemonger: When in doubt, consult your local cheese shop or delicatessen. They should be able to provide guidance on which cheeses are vegetarian-friendly.

Cooking and Serving Suggestions

Vegetarian cheeses can be used in much the same way as their traditional counterparts. Here are some delicious ideas to get you started:

1. Cheese boards: Craft a stunning cheese board with various vegetarian cheeses paired with fruits, nuts, chutneys, and crackers.
2. Grilled cheese: Whip a comforting sandwich using tangy cheddar or creamy Havarti.
3. Pizza: Top your homemade pizza with shredded mozzarella and Parmesan-style cheese for a gooey, flavourful finish.
4. Salads: Crumble vegetarian feta or blue cheese over your favourite salad for flavour and texture.
5. Pasta dishes: Grate vegetarian Parmesan over pasta dishes like spaghetti carbonara or cacio e pepe for an authentic Italian flair.
6. Soups and stews: Stir in shredded cheddar or crumbled blue cheese to elevate your favourite soups and stews.
7. Cheese sauces: Create a luscious cheese sauce using vegetarian cheddar or Gruyère for drizzling over steamed vegetables or nachos.

Conclusion

For cheese-loving vegetarians, the world of cheese is more accessible and delicious than ever. By understanding what makes a cheese vegetarian, familiarising yourself with the vast array of vegetarian-friendly varieties, and knowing how to identify them, you can continue to enjoy this beloved food without compromising your dietary choices.

From tangy cheddar to creamy mozzarella to bold blue, there’s vegetarian cheese out there for every taste and occasion. So indulge in the delicious, diverse world of vegetarian cheese!