Best vegan sour cream recipe made with whole foods! This is an ideal dairy-free sour cream substitute that's ultra-creamy and super simple to make with just 5 plant-based ingredients. Besides that, this homemade cashew sour cream is soy-free, gluten-free, and oil-free, completely lactose-free.
First, soak the cashews for at least 30 minutes, covered, in hot water, or overnight with regular tap water. The longer you let them soak, the softer they will become, and the creamier the consistency of your vegan sour cream recipe turns out. After soaking, drain, rinse, and drain again until the water runs clean.
In a high-powered blender combine cashews, lemon juice, apple cider vinegar, salt, and water. Blend until you get a silky smooth and creamy consistency. Stop and scrape down the sides if needed.
Taste and add an additional teaspoon of lemon juice or more salt asper taste. Serve immediately or store in an airtight container (glass is always the best!) in the fridge for later. You can keep any leftovers, refrigerated, for up to 4 days. Give it a good stir before serving. Enjoy!
Notes
Even if you have a high-powdered blender don't skip the soaking step. By soaking the cashews, not only do you get that amazingly creamy texture but this also boosts their nutrition and improves digestion.
Always use only raw organic cashews, not roasted ones. Roasted cashews are usually salty and have a strong flavor that is not typical for sour cream. Additionally, they can contain high levels of added oils.
If you don't have a high-powered blender you can still reach a smooth texture by soaking cashews longer (overnight will be the best option). They should plump and become soft and fluffy.
I get the perfect texture and flavor with the listed ingredient measurements. Nonetheless, if you think your homemade sour cream is too thick feel free to add a bit more water, non-dairy milk, or vegan yogurt if you like. Additionally, you can add more lemon juice/salt if you desire. Test with a small amount of the additional ingredients to avoid undesirable consistency/taste.
You can add 1 tablespoon of nutritional yeast for a pronounced cheesy flavor.