Garlic and herb goat cheese is a popular ingredient in many recipes, but not everyone can eat it due to dietary restrictions or personal preferences. Fortunately, there are several good substitutes for garlic and herb goat cheese that can allow you to still enjoy your favorite recipes.
Why Find a Substitute?
Some reasons you may need a garlic and herb goat cheese substitute include:
- Dairy allergy or intolerance – Goat cheese contains dairy, so those with a dairy allergy/intolerance need a non-dairy substitute.
- Vegetarian/vegan diet – Goat cheese is an animal product, so vegetarians/vegans will want a plant-based substitute.
- Dislike the taste – Some people dislike the tangy flavor of goat cheese and want an alternative.
- Unavailable – You may not always have access to garlic and herb goat cheese and need a stand-in ingredient.
Non-Dairy Substitutes
For those avoiding dairy, these non-dairy substitutes can mimic the texture and flavor of garlic and herb goat cheese:
Vegan Cheese
Vegan cheese comes in many varieties and can be a one-to-one swap for regular cheese in recipes. Look for a tangy vegan cheese that has some herb flavorings. Some good options are:
- Kite Hill Cream Cheese Style Spread
- Treeline Creamy French-Style Cheese
- Miyoko’s Double Cream Chive
- Daiya Cheezy Herb Cream Cheese Style Spread
Vegan cheese can be found in the refrigerated section at health food stores or large supermarkets. Read labels to verify dairy-free and vegan.
Tofu
Firm or extra-firm tofu can be crumbled or mashed to mimic the soft, spreadable texture of goat cheese. For flavor, add garlic powder, dried herbs like oregano or basil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. The tofu takes on the flavor of whatever spices you add.
Cashew Cheese
Soaked raw cashews can be blended into a rich, creamy cheese consistency. Add garlic, lemon, herbs, and salt and pepper to reproduce the tang and flavor of goat cheese. Use cashew cheese just as you would dairy cheese. It can be used in appetizers, sandwiches, pasta, etc.
Dairy-Based Replacements
If you can tolerate dairy, these cheese alternatives provide the closest match to garlic and herb goat cheese:
Herbed Cream Cheese or Neufchatel
Plain cream cheese or Neufchatel (low-fat cream cheese) can be turned into a goat cheese substitute by mixing in garlic powder, dried herbs, lemon juice, salt, and pepper until well-combined. The texture and mild tang are similar.
Feta Cheese
Crumbled feta cheese has a tart, salty flavor that is reminiscent of goat cheese. For addedsimilarity, mix in dried herbs like dill, oregano, basil or thyme. Feta works well in salads, pasta, pizza and more.
Fromage Blanc
Fromage blanc is a soft, spreadable French cheese with a creamy texture similar to goat cheese. Season fromage blanc with garlic powder, herbs, lemon zest, salt, and pepper. Fromage blanc is delicious as a dip, in sandwiches, or in any recipe.
Queso Fresco
Queso fresco is a mild, moist Mexican cheese that crumbles easily. Mix in garlic, herbs, and spices for a goat cheese flavor profile. Use queso fresco to top tacos, enchiladas, black bean burgers, or stir into casseroles and grain bowls.
Ingredients to Boost Cheesy Garlic Herb Flavor
To infuse any cheese sub with the classic garlic and herb goat cheese taste, mix in:
- Minced garlic
- Dried basil
- Dried oregano
- Dried thyme
- Dried parsley
- Lemon juice
- Salt and pepper
Start with small amounts of each seasoning and adjust to your taste preferences.
Substitution Amounts
Use the following substitution ratios as a general guideline:
| Original Ingredient | Substitution |
|---|---|
| 1 cup garlic & herb goat cheese | 1 cup vegan cheese OR herbed cream cheese/Neufchatel |
| 1 cup garlic & herb goat cheese | 1 cup seasoned firm tofu OR cashew cheese |
| 1 cup garlic & herb goat cheese | 1 cup feta, fromage blanc or queso fresco seasoned with garlic & herbs |
Adjust the amounts as needed based on the recipe and your own taste preferences. The cheese alternatives may not melt or incorporate exactly the same way as regular goat cheese, so some adjustments may be necessary.
Cooking Considerations
Keep these tips in mind when substituting for garlic and herb goat cheese:
- Vegan cheese melts best when pre-shredded and mixed with a starch like tapioca or arrowroot flour.
- Tofu and cashew cheese work well raw but may not melt well when cooked.
- Feta and queso fresco tend to get saltier when cooked, so taste before adding more salt.
- For baked dishes, spread cream cheese substitutes evenly so they don’t burn.
- If substituting in a salad, add cheese alternatives just before serving so they don’t get soggy.
Conclusion
While no substitution will perfectly replicate the unique tang and flavor of garlic and herb goat cheese, there are many delicious plant-based and dairy-based alternatives. Getting creative with seasonings and ingredients like vegan cheese, tofu, nuts, and herbs allows you to approximate the cheesy garlic flavor in recipes. Consider your dietary needs, taste preferences, and the recipe application when choosing a substitute. With so many options like feta, seasoned cream cheese, cashew cheese, and more, you can still enjoy your favorite foods without the goat cheese!