Creamy Carrot-Almond Spread
This vibrant and nutritious Creamy Carrot-Almond Spread is a delightful addition to any meal! Inspired by my favorite nutritional yeast cookbook, this vegan-friendly spread is perfect for enhancing your toast, baked potatoes, and sandwiches with its rich, savory flavor. The combination of tender carrots, creamy almond butter, and the unique umami of nutritional yeast creates a luscious texture and taste that is sure to please. For a colorful twist, consider using a variety of heirloom carrots for added sweetness and visual appeal. Enjoy this versatile spread in countless ways, and feel good knowing it's packed with wholesome ingredients!
N/A
Servings
33
Calories
6
Ingredients
Ingredients
Chopped Carrot
1 cup (about 2-3 large carrots or a cup of baby carrots)
Water
1 cup (for boiling)
Almond Butter
1 tablespoon (creamy, unsweetened)
Nutritional Yeast Flakes
2 tablespoons (for a cheesy flavor)
Tamari Soy Sauce
1 teaspoon (or soy sauce or Bragg's)
Salt
1 pinch (to taste)
Instructions
1
In a medium saucepan, bring 1 cup of water to a boil over high heat.
2
Once boiling, reduce the heat to medium and add the chopped carrots. Cover loosely with a lid and let simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the carrots are fork-tender.
3
After cooking, drain the carrots and transfer them to a food processor or chopper equipped with a strong metal blade.
4
Add the almond butter, nutritional yeast flakes, tamari soy sauce, and a pinch of salt to the food processor.
5
Process all the ingredients together until completely smooth and creamy. Scrape down the sides as needed to ensure an even consistency.
6
Taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary, then transfer the mixture to an airtight container.
7
This spread can be enjoyed right away or refrigerated for up to one week. Serve it with your favorite snacks, meals, or as a dip for fresh vegetables.
Nutrition Information
1g
Fat
4g
Carbs
1g
Protein
1g
Fiber
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Creamy Carrot-Almond Spread?
It is a vibrant, nutritious, and vegan-friendly spread made from tender carrots, almond butter, and nutritional yeast, perfect for toast and sandwiches.
Is this carrot spread recipe vegan?
Yes, this recipe is entirely vegan and dairy-free as it uses almond butter and nutritional yeast instead of animal products.
How long does it take to cook the carrots for this recipe?
The carrots should be simmered for 20-25 minutes, or until they are fork-tender.
What type of almond butter should I use?
The recipe recommends using creamy, unsweetened almond butter for the best texture and flavor.
What can I use if I don't have Tamari?
You can substitute Tamari with regular soy sauce or Bragg's Liquid Aminos.
How long will the Creamy Carrot-Almond Spread last in the refrigerator?
The spread can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week.
Can I use baby carrots instead of regular carrots?
Yes, you can use approximately one cup of baby carrots as a substitute for 2-3 large carrots.
What is the purpose of nutritional yeast in this recipe?
Nutritional yeast flakes are added to provide a savory, cheesy flavor and a rich umami profile.
How many calories are in a serving of this spread?
Each serving contains approximately 33 calories.
What kitchen equipment do I need?
You will need a medium saucepan for boiling and a food processor or chopper equipped with a strong metal blade.
Is this spread gluten-free?
Yes, provided you use Tamari (which is naturally gluten-free) rather than standard soy sauce.
How much fat is in this recipe?
Each serving contains approximately 1 gram of fat.
Can I use different types of carrots?
Absolutely. Using heirloom carrots can add extra sweetness and visual appeal to the spread.
How much fiber does this spread provide?
This spread provides 1 gram of fiber per serving.
What are some ways to serve this spread?
It is great on toast, baked potatoes, sandwiches, or as a dip for fresh vegetables.
Does this recipe contain cholesterol?
No, this recipe contains 0mg of cholesterol.
How many ingredients are required?
The recipe requires 6 basic ingredients: carrots, water, almond butter, nutritional yeast, tamari, and salt.
Is there added sugar in this spread?
No, there is no sugar listed in the nutrition facts or the ingredients list.
How do I ensure the spread is completely smooth?
Process all ingredients in a food processor and scrape down the sides as needed to ensure an even, creamy consistency.
Can I eat this spread immediately?
Yes, it can be enjoyed right away or chilled for later use.
How much protein is in one serving?
Each serving provides about 1 gram of protein.
What is the carbohydrate count per serving?
There are 4 grams of carbohydrates per serving.
Should I drain the carrots before processing?
Yes, you should drain the carrots after boiling before transferring them to the food processor.
What heat setting should I use to boil the water?
Start by bringing the water to a boil over high heat, then reduce to medium once the carrots are added.
Is this recipe dairy-free?
Yes, it is 100% dairy-free, making it suitable for those with lactose intolerance or dairy allergies.
Can I add more salt?
The recipe suggests a pinch of salt, but you should taste and adjust the seasoning to your preference before storing.
What is the texture of this spread?
The texture is luscious, creamy, and smooth once fully processed.
Can I make this if I don't have a large food processor?
Yes, a smaller chopper with a strong metal blade can also be used since the recipe yields a manageable amount.
Is the almond butter salted or unsalted?
The recipe specifies unsweetened almond butter; if using salted, you may want to skip the extra pinch of salt.
What makes this spread 'savory'?
The combination of nutritional yeast and tamari soy sauce provides a deep, savory umami flavor.