Vegan Caprese Sandwich

There is nothing quite like the almighty grilled cheese sandwich. Sarah and I were recently at a restaurant here in Pittsburgh that specializes in gourmet grilled cheese sandwiches, and we fell in love. We knew we could achieve one of our favorites in a delicious, vegan form, and we succeeded! Behold, the Vegan Caprese Sandwich!


This recipe is really all about making this vegan mozzarella (from It Doesn't Taste Like Chicken). Here's what you need:

For the cheese:
- 1/4 cup cashews, soaked overnight
- 1 cup hot water
- 2 tbsp. + 2 tsp. tapioca flour
- 1 tbsp. nutritional yeast
- 1 tsp. lemon juice
- 1/2 tsp. salt
- 1/4 tsp. garlic powder

For the sandwich:
- Italian bread
- Tomato
- Fresh basil
- Vegan mozzarella
- Balsamic vinaigrette

For the vinaigrette:
- Balsamic vinegar
- Extra virgin olive oil
- Salt
- Black pepper


Here's what you do:

1. Make the cheese:
- Combine all ingredients in a blender, and blend until liquid.
- Heat in a small saucepan on low heat, stirring constantly.
- The mixture will start to form clumps. Continue stirring until thick and stretchy.

2. Make the vinaigrette:
- Combine equal parts red wine vinegar and extra virgin olive oil.
- Add a pinch of salt and black pepper.
- Whisk to combine.

3. Assemble the sandwich:
- Cut 2 thick slices of your bread.
- On one slice, brush with the vinaigrette, on the other, add a thick layer of the vegan cheese.
- Top with tomato slices and fresh basil leaves.
- Grill in a hot, buttered skillet to your liking.