Nacho Average Nachos

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This month at my vegan Meet-up, "Meatless Monday's and Beyond," we talked about non-dairy "dairy," aka dairy substitutes. The potluck is always amazing and this time we were also treated to a food demo on how to make your favorite dairy foods, non-dairy. We even got to sample - don't get me started on the chocolate mousse, WOW!

Cheese seems to be the hardest thing for people to give up and there is good reason for that. For more on this subject, read this article.  But while it may be difficult to wean yourself off of milk products (pun intended), you don't have to miss the taste. Here's my recipe for nachos that's quick, easy, nutritious and yummy - lactose intolerant people, rejoice!

Bean Layer

  • 1 tbsp Olive Oil
  • ½ medium Onion, peeled and chopped
  • 2 cloves Garlic, minced
  • 2 tsp Chili Powder
  • 1 tsp Cumin
  • 1/2 tsp Salt
  • Dash Cayenne Pepper
  • 1 can Pinto or Black Beans, drained & rinsed (save the liquid)


Cheez Layer

  • 1 medium Onion, peeled & coarsely chopped
  • 1 Roasted Red Pepper, from jar & drained
  • 3 tbsp Toasted Cashews
  • 1 tbsp Tahini
  • 1 cup Nutritional Yeast
  • ½ tsp Salt


Toppings (any or all!)

  • Salsa
  • Avocado or Guacamole
  • Green Onions
  • Sliced Black Olives
  • Deli Sliced Jalapeno Peppers
  • Fresh Corn
  • Cilantro

Tortilla Chips


Directions:
Bean Layer

  1. Saute onion in olive oil until translucent, about 5 minutes. Add garlic and continue sautéing until fragrant, about 30 more seconds.
  2. Add chili powder, cumin, salt and cayenne, stirring until combined. Cook for 1 minute.
  3. Add drained beans, smashing with a wooden spoon or potato masher, and cook for about 5 minutes. Add the reserved liquid as you go, to achieve the right consistency.


Cheez Layer

  1. Combine all ingredients in a blender in order given and puree until smooth and creamy. Add up to ½ cup of water if necessary. (Hint: if you are using a Ninja or similar blender, reverse the ingredient).


Build Your Nachos

  1. Place your base of tortilla chips or don’t. I find it easier to serve the chips separately and use the toppings as a dip.
  2. Layer the refried beans, cheez sauce and any toppings.
  3. Dig in!




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