Name: Vegan Carbonara Pasta Recipe
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 15 min
Ingredients: 4 ounces mushrooms, chopped; 2 onions, chopped; 4 slices vegetarian bacon; 4 ounces pasta (mini macaroni); 1 tablespoon olive oil; 3 garlic cloves; 1 teaspoon mixed Italian herbs; 1/4 pint soya milk; 2 teaspoons cornstarch; 1 tablespoon soy yogurt; vegan parmesan cheese

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Welcome to my Vegan Carbonara Pasta Recipe! I’m excited to share this delicious and easy vegan rendition of a traditional Italian dish with you. This recipe is perfect for those who crave the classic flavors of carbonara but want a cruelty-free and plant-based option.

I created this recipe using a combination of fresh ingredients, such as mushrooms and onions, along with some key substitutions to achieve that rich and creamy texture typical of carbonara sauce. Instead of traditional ingredients like eggs and cheese, I’ve used raw cashews and nutritional yeast to make the sauce, giving it a nutty and tangy flavor.

Whether you’re already following a plant-based diet or just looking for a delicious meatless meal, this Vegan Carbonara Pasta recipe is sure to satisfy your cravings while being gentle on animals and the environment. So let’s get started!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Picture this: a delicious plate of creamy and flavorful pasta in front of you, without any of the guilt. Sounds like a dream come true, right? Well, with this vegan carbonara pasta recipe, that dream can become a reality.

As a vegan chef, I’ve always been on the lookout for ways to create vegan versions of classic dishes. And let me tell you, this vegan carbonara recipe is truly something special. It’s a dish that satisfies both the taste buds and the conscience.

One reason you’ll love this recipe is its authenticity. While some vegan recipes try too hard to mimic non-vegan flavors and textures but fail to hit the mark, this carbonara recipe captures the essence of the original dish. It’s savory and rich without relying on animal products for flavor.

Another reason why this recipe is so great is that it’s incredibly easy to make. With simple ingredients like pasta, onions, garlic, and soya milk, it’s perfect for anyone who loves cooking but doesn’t want to spend hours in the kitchen.

The versatility of this recipe also makes it appealing! You can easily substitute ingredients to fit your preferences. For example, if you’re gluten-free or simply trying to cut carbs, use zoodles instead of traditional pasta.

Additionally, for those times when you want something unique and extra creamy? Add some vegan parmesan cheese or pecorino romano to your carbonara sauce. You won’t regret it!

Above all else, what really sets this vegan carbonara apart is its health benefits. This dish has all the flavor of its non-vegan counterpart but without any cholesterol or saturated fat found in animal-based products.

In summary, if you’re looking for an easy-to-make but impressive vegan pasta dish that tastes like authentic carbonara while being healthy, cruelty-free and versatile – look no further! You’ll love my Vegan Carbonara Pasta Recipe

Ingredient List

Satisfy your cravings with this vegan twist on a classic pasta dish!

Here are the ingredients you will need to make this delicious vegan carbonara pasta recipe:

Pasta: You can use any type of pasta of your choice, whether it’s spaghetti, fettuccine, linguine, or even gluten-free pasta.
Vegetarian Bacon: This ingredient is what makes this vegan carbonara recipe special! You can use any type of vegan bacon or substitute it with mushrooms or smoked tofu.
Onions and Garlic Cloves: These vegetables add flavor and depth to the dish. Make sure to mince the garlic finely for better distribution in the sauce.
Olive Oil: Used to sauté and cook the onions and garlic before adding them to the sauce.
Cornstarch: This ingredient helps thicken the sauce. You can also use arrowroot powder or tapioca starch as a substitute.
Soy Milk: This plant-based milk is used to create a creamy base for the carbonara sauce. Any type of non-dairy milk can be substituted.
Nutritional Yeast: This ingredient adds a cheesy flavor without using dairy. It’s a great addition for vegans!
Raw Cashews: They add a creaminess to the vegan carbonara sauce without using dairy products. Soak them overnight or boil for 10 minutes before blending for a smoother texture.
Turmeric, Dijon Mustard and Garlic Powder: These spices enhance the flavors in the dish.
Smoked Paprika and Black Pepper: These spices give an extra kick of flavor!
Salt: To enhance the overall flavor of the dish.

Optional:

Vegan Parmesan Cheese: You can sprinkle some on top for extra cheesiness.
Mushrooms: If you prefer not to use vegetarian bacon, you can substitute it with mushrooms or add them as an additional ingredient in your carbonara pasta recipe.

The Recipe How-To

Creamy and delicious, this carbonara is completely free of animal products.

Ingredients:
– 8 oz vegan spaghetti
– 1/2 package of vegetarian bacon
– 1/2 onion, chopped
– 4 garlic cloves, minced
– 4 oz mushrooms, sliced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Vegan parmesan cheese, for topping

Carbonara sauce:
– 12 ounces firm tofu, drained and rinsed
– 3 tablespoons olive oil
– 3 tablespoons soy sauce
– Nutritional yeast, to taste
– 2 tsp cornstarch
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Black pepper to taste

Step One: Cook the Spaghetti

Bring a large pot of salted water to boiling point. Add the vegan spaghetti and cook according to the package directions until al dente. Reserve one cup of pasta cooking water just in case, then drain well.

Step Two: Cook Vegetarian Bacon

In a large skillet over medium heat go ahead and add in the vegetarian bacon and cook for about 5 minutes per side until crispy. Remove from skillet and chop into small pieces.

Step Three: Sauté Onion, Garlic, and Mushrooms

In the same pan used to cook the bacon, heat up one tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Once that is ready, add in the chopped onion and sauté for about four minutes or until translucent.

Then stir in the minced garlic followed by sliced mushrooms with a bit of salt and black pepper. Cook everything together for another six minutes or until mushrooms are softened.

Step Four: Prepare Vegan Carbonara Sauce

Combine all the ingredients listed under “carbonara sauce” in a blender or food processor. Blend on high speed for approximately two minutes or until you get a smooth and creamy texture.

Step Five: Assemble Carbonara Pasta

Add cooked vegan spaghetti into the pan with onion mixture then mix in the prepared carbonara sauce.

Toss everything together until well combined. If needed use reserved pasta cooking water to thin out the carbonara sauce until you get your desired consistency.

Finally, divide amongst serving plates with sprinkles of some vegan parmesan cheese on top of each bowl.

Enjoy your delicious vegan Carbonara!

Substitutions and Variations

Indulge in the comforting flavors of this pasta, guilt-free!

Looking for some twists and substitutes to experiment with your vegan carbonara pasta recipe? You’re at the right place! In this section, I’ll share with you some variations and alternatives that can make your vegan carbonara even more delectable.

– Plant-based bacon: Instead of using vegetarian bacon, you can substitute it with sliced mushrooms, or smoked tofu to achieve a smoky flavor. You can also use tempeh bacon or coconut bacon if you want more variety.

– Pasta choice: While spaghetti carbonara is the classic choice, you can try different types of pasta shapes such as rigatoni, penne or farfalle. You can also switch from regular spaghetti to gluten-free, brown rice or chickpea pasta for a healthier option.

– Vegan parmesan cheese: If you don’t have vegan parmesan cheese on hand, no worries. You can make your homemade vegan parmesan cheese by blending nutritional yeast, raw cashews, garlic powder and salt in a food processor until they form a grated cheese-like texture. Sprinkle it over your pasta and taste the magic!

– Silken tofu instead of cashews: Some people may be allergic to nuts or may prefer a soy-based recipe. If so, substitute the raw cashews used in the sauce with silken tofu. This will provide a creamy texture similar to cashews.

– Creamy mushroom carbonara: Add sliced mushrooms while cooking the onions for an extra earthy flavor.

– Chicken carbonara: While this isn’t entirely plant-based, you can substitute vegetarian bacon with grilled chicken slices or chicken-style seitan pieces for a protein-packed meal.

– Nut-free carbonara: Eliminate raw cashews from the recipe altogether – replace with cornstarch added to soya milk for thickening purposes. However, keep in mind that this option might change the flavor and texture slightly.

These simple substitutions and variations can turn your basic vegan carbonara pasta into an extraordinary dish that everyone at the table will relish!

Serving and Pairing

You won't even miss the eggs and bacon in this vegan version of carbonara. — You won’t even miss the eggs and bacon in this vegan version of carbonara.

When it comes to serving and pairing this vegan carbonara pasta, I like to keep things simple. Since the dish is already packed with flavor, I recommend serving it with a side salad or some fresh steamed vegetables to balance out the meal. Additionally, this pasta pairs well with a glass of crisp white wine or a light rosé.

If you’re looking to add some protein to the dish, consider topping it off with some vegan chicken strips or tofu. For a heartier version, you can also add some sautéed mushrooms or veggie bacon to enhance the savory taste of the carbonara sauce.

This pasta recipe can be customized based on your taste preferences and dietary needs. For example, if you prefer gluten-free options, you can use gluten-free spaghetti or swap out regular flour for all-purpose gluten-free flour in the sauce. You can also adjust the level of creaminess by adding more or less soya milk as needed.

Overall, this vegan carbonara pasta is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion since it’s quick and easy to make while still looking and tasting like restaurant-quality. Whether you’re vegan or not, this dish is sure to satisfy your cravings for a creamy and indulgent pasta without any dairy or meat products.

Make-Ahead, Storing and Reheating

This creamy sauce is made with cashews, giving it a slightly nutty, cheesy taste.

Creating a dish that’s so delicious, you’ll want to make a big batch of it seems perfect, right? With this vegan carbonara pasta, you can easily do that! Keep in mind that the taste and texture of any pasta dish tend to deteriorate over time, especially with the addition of sauce. But don’t worry! We have got you covered with some tips to keep your pasta tasting sumptuous for days.

Make Ahead:

This vegan carbonara pasta can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. Cook it until firm but not hard, then quickly submerge it into an icy cold water bath. Drain well before tossing in olive oil to prevent sticking. Place the pasta in an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator until ready to use.

Storing:

Store any leftover vegan carbonara pasta in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop with a little extra soya milk or olive oil to prevent drying out.

Reheating:

When reheating the pasta, always remember to avoid overcooking it. You can reheat it on a microwave-safe plate or bowl; add some extra soya milk or oil if necessary. You can also reheat on a stovetop; just toss the leftover pasta with a dash of soya milk, then heat over medium heat while gently shaking the pan until fully heated again.

Remember that leftover pasta doesn’t have the best texture, sometimes making it mushy if reheated too much. Nevertheless, this dish is delicious even when eaten cold as leftovers! Just remember to store and reheat properly for maximum enjoyment.

Tips for Perfect Results

Serve up a plate of this pasta and impress your dinner guests with its decadence.

To ensure that your vegan carbonara pasta turns out just as tasty and satisfying as you hoped it would, here are some helpful tips for perfecting the recipe:

1. Cook the pasta correctly: Follow the instructions on the package of your chosen pasta to ensure it is cooked al dente. Overcooking the pasta will result in a mushy mess.

2. Crispy vegetarian bacon: When cooking the vegetarian bacon, make sure to cook it until it’s crispy. This will add some much-needed texture to the dish.

3. Use quality vegan Parmesan cheese: The vegan Parmesan cheese adds a cheesy and salty flavor to the dish, so make sure to use a good-quality brand for optimal taste. You can also make your own vegan Parmesan cheese by blending raw cashews, nutritional yeast, garlic powder, and salt until they become a fine powder.

4. Don’t be afraid of cornstarch: If you’re making the creamy carbonara sauce from scratch, don’t skip on adding cornstarch to thicken it up. It’ll result in a better texture and consistency for your pasta.

5. The importance of onion and garlic: Onion and garlic add depth of flavor to any dish, including this one. So, don’t be tempted to skip them or skimp on their quantities.

6. Using smoked paprika: Smoked paprika can add an extra dimension of flavor to the dish without overwhelming its other flavors.

7. Get creative with substitutions: You can always experiment with different ingredients and variations based on your preferences and dietary requirements. For example, you can use gluten-free pasta or substitute silken tofu for mushrooms or bacon for a different twist.

8. Serve immediately: Vegan carbonara pasta is best served right after it’s prepared when it’s hot and fresh. Otherwise, the sauce may clump up or dry out when reheated.

By following these tips, you’re likely to create an unforgettable experience for yourself and others who enjoy delicious vegan recipes!

FAQ

As we want you to get the most out of this vegan carbonara pasta recipe, we have compiled a list of common questions for you in this FAQ section. This will help you troubleshoot any issues that may arise and provide more clarity on some of the ingredients or steps involved. Let’s address some common inquiries you may have before getting started.

What is vegan carbonara made of?

For the vegan carbonara sauce, we will be using a blender to make a creamy mixture. The sauce is a blend of various ingredients, including raw cashews, nutritional yeast, turmeric, dijon mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, black salt (which is also called kala namak), and non-dairy milk. Once we blend these ingredients together until they are smooth, we will have created our ‘egg’ sauce for the carbonara.

What can I use instead of meat in carbonara?

In this recipe, I recommend using mushrooms as a tasty and satisfying substitute for meat. This is because mushrooms can deliver a meaty flavor that closely mimics the taste of meat. Of course, you can also experiment with other plant-based meat options if you prefer, but I highly recommend giving mushrooms a try if you can get your hands on some beautiful specimens. Not only is this swap simple to execute, but it also yields delicious results.

What is the secret ingredient in carbonara?

When it comes to preparing a dish of Carbonara, using guanciale is crucial. I consider this recipe as a statement because it omits certain ingredients such as parmesan, cream, and extra egg yolks that some British individuals may believe are necessary. Instead, the main flavors come from the use of pepper, pecorino romano, and of course, the pork-based guanciale.

What is an alternative cheese for carbonara?

For this recipe, it is recommended to use either finely grated parmigiano-reggiano or pecorino-romano cheese. If these options are not available, you can substitute with parmesan. Similarly, while traditional carbonara is made with guanciale or pancetta, bacon is a viable substitute when cooking at home.

Bottom Line

In conclusion, this vegan carbonara pasta recipe is perfect for anyone who loves the creamy richness of traditional spaghetti carbonara, but wants a plant-based alternative. With its delicious combination of vegan parmesan cheese, nutritional yeast and soya milk, this recipe delivers the authentic flavors of a traditional carbonara sauce without any dairy or animal products.

What’s more, this recipe is not only easy to make, but incredibly versatile as well. You can swap out the mushrooms and vegetarian bacon for your favorite vegetables and protein sources for a dish that caters to your taste and dietary preferences.

So why not give this easy vegan carbonara recipe a try? Whether you’re entertaining guests or just cooking dinner for yourself, this hearty and flavorful dish is sure to impress. And with its simple ingredient list and easy-to-follow instructions, you’ll be whipping up mouthwatering vegan spaghetti carbonara in no time!

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Jolo

Jolo is a talented chef and food blogger with a passion for vegan and Caribbean flavors. From savory vegetarian dishes to tropical smoothies, Jolo’s Kitchen has something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for meat-free meals or creative Caribbean recipes, Jolo’s Kitchen is the perfect place for you.

A heavenly vegan carbonara recipe for foodies!