Are you on a vegan diet? For the unversed, veganism involves quitting consumption of meat or any other animal products, such as eggs, cheese, butter, milk, cream, ice cream or any other dairy products. Many people may be afraid to switch to this diet as it could mean saying goodbye to all these above-mentioned foods they may like. The good news is that with the rise in popularity of the vegan diet, you can now easily access vegan or plant-based alternatives for these foods. This means you do not need to quit your favourite foods, such as pizza. All pizza lovers following a vegan diet or transitioning to veganism must try this delicious restaurant-style vegan pizza at home.
What Is Vegan Pizza?
Vegan recipes are not complicated, especially this one. All you need to do is swap the meat and cheese for plant-based alternatives. This recipe also uses yeast in the dough, which is considered a vegan food. According to PETA, "Yeast is not an animal. It's a member of the fungus kingdom." Yeast falls in the same category as mushrooms.
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How Is Vegan Cheese Made?
Vegan cheeses are made using vegetable proteins such as soy, cashews, macadamias and coconut oil. Vegan cheese can also be derived from agar, tapioca, peas and arrowroot. Compared to regular cheese, vegan cheese may not melt the same. However, they taste great and there are many brands available in the market for different varieties of vegan cheeses.
Also Read: Watch: German Blogger Makes Vegan Malai Kofta; Indians Worldwide Are Overjoyed
Is Vegan Cheese Available In India?
Yes, there are several vegan cheese options available in India that can be found in grocery stores or you can order them online through grocery apps.
Choice Of Toppings For Vegan Pizza
Go gaga on the amount and variety of veggies you want as toppings on your vegan pizza. Popular choices include mushrooms, olives, broccoli, tomatoes, corn, onion, jalapeno, sun-dried tomatoes, bell peppers, artichoke, spinach and more.
Also Read: Everything You Need To Know About Veganism Before Trying It
How To Make Cheesy Vegan Pizza At Home | Vegan Pizza Recipe
This is a simple recipe that is also beginner-friendly. First, whisk the yeast and lukewarm water together. Now make the dough by mixing salt and flour in a large bowl. To add more flavour to the dough, add one tablespoon of garlic powder. Now make a well in the center of the flour and pour the yeast/water mixture and oil into the middle. Gently mix the dough and knead. Once the dough is rested and doubled, knead it again and then roll it out into a 12-inch pizza shape. Place the crust on a pizza pan/baking sheet and par-bake in the oven. Add the toppings and bake again. Instead of traditional pizza sauce, you can also use vegan garlic sauce or cashew cream. Add fresh basil leaves on top for that Italian flavour. Serve hot and fresh. Enjoy! Click here for the full step-by-step recipe.