Boursin is a popular French cheese spread made from cream cheese, milk, and garlic and herbs. The dairy-free version replaces the dairy ingredients with plant-based alternatives to create a similar soft, spreadable cheese.
Why make dairy-free Boursin?
There are a few key reasons one may choose to make or buy dairy-free Boursin:
- Dairy allergies or intolerances – For those who are allergic to milk proteins or lactose intolerant, a dairy-free Boursin allows them to enjoy the flavor of this iconic cheese spread.
- Vegan diet – Vegans exclude all animal products, including dairy, from their diets. Dairy-free Boursin gives them a plant-based alternative to traditional Boursin.
- Environmental concerns – Dairy production has a significant environmental impact. Some choose dairy-free options to reduce their carbon footprint.
- Preference for plant-based foods – Regardless of allergy or diet, some simply prefer the taste and texture of plant-based dairy substitutes in their foods.
Ingredients in dairy-free Boursin
There are a variety of ingredients used to make dairy-free Boursin. The primary components are:
Plant-based dairy alternatives
This forms the base that mimics the texture of cream cheese. Common options include:
- Tofu – Firm or silken tofu can be blended to a creamy, spreadable consistency.
- Cashew cream – Soaked raw cashews blended with water create a rich, dairy-like cream.
- Coconut cream – The thick cream from the top of canned coconut milk can be whipped into a spreadable texture.
- Vegan cream cheese – Many brands now make pre-made vegan cream cheese from nuts, coconut, or soy.
Fat
Adding plant-based fats helps mimic the rich mouthfeel of dairy cream cheese:
- Coconut oil – Has a smooth texture and subtle coconut flavor.
- Vegan butter – Gives a rich taste and creamy consistency.
- Avocado – Provides creaminess and healthy fats.
- Raw nuts or seeds – Cashews, macadamia nuts, and pine nuts can be blended in.
Flavorings
Herbs, garlic, and spices flavor dairy-free Boursin:
- Garlic – Minced or roasted garlic gives a quintessential Boursin flavor.
- Fresh herbs – Basil, parsley, chives add freshness.
- Dried herbs – Oregano, thyme, rosemary can provide concentrated herby tastes.
- Spices – Pepper, paprika, onion powder enhance overall flavor.
- Citrus zest – A little lemon or lime zest brightens up dairy-free Boursin.
Thickeners
Adding starch helps thicken dairy-free Boursin to the right consistency:
- Tapioca starch – Gives a smooth, creamy texture.
- Arrowroot – Allows the spread to set up while retaining a soft texture.
- Potato starch – Provides thickness without affecting taste.
Nutritional yeast
Nutritional yeast gives dairy-free Boursin a savory, cheese-like umami flavor. It also provides a vitamin B boost.
Salt
A pinch of salt enhances overall flavor and balances sweetness of other ingredients.
Acids
Small amounts of acidic ingredients like lemon juice or apple cider vinegar add tanginess reminiscent of dairy cheese.
Dairy-Free Boursin Variations
Once you have the basic dairy-free Boursin recipe down, there are endless ways to adapt it by using different primary ingredients, herbs, and flavorings. Some ideas include:
- Mediterranean Boursin – Use a cashew or tofu base with sundried tomato, basil, oregano, and garlic.
- Chive and pepper Boursin – Make with coconut cream, chives, black pepper, and a pinch of cayenne.
- Herbed Boursin – Combine coconut oil, mixed fresh herbs like dill, parsley, chives, and tarragon.
- Smoked paprika Boursin – Prepare a tofu-based version with smoked paprika, garlic, and lemon zest.
- Chipotle Boursin – Make with vegan cream cheese, chipotle peppers, cumin, and lime juice.
How to Make Dairy-Free Boursin
Here is a step-by-step guide to making easy homemade dairy-free Boursin:
- Drain and press any excess liquid from tofu if using. Soak cashews if using for cashew cream. Drain coconut cream if using.
- In a food processor, combine dairy-free base, plant-based fats, and any herbs/spices/seasonings. Process until very smooth.
- Add thickener like tapioca starch and process again until well incorporated.
- Scrape Boursin mixture into an airtight container and smooth top with a spatula. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours to allow flavors to meld and Boursin to set.
- Serve chilled or at room temperature. Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
The possibilities are endless when making dairy-free Boursin! Change up the base ingredients, herbs, and seasonings to customize your own unique flavors.
Tips for Best Results
Follow these tips to achieve a smooth, creamy homemade dairy-free Boursin with great flavor:
- Make sure plant-based cream cheese, tofu, cashews or coconut cream are well drained before adding to food processor.
- Use a high-powdered food processor for the smoothest texture.
- Add herbs and seasonings little by little until desired flavor is reached.
- Chill Boursin for at least 2 hours before serving for best consistency.
- Store in airtight container and use within 5 days for freshest texture and taste.
Uses for Dairy-Free Boursin
Dairy-free Boursin is a versatile ingredient to have on hand. Here are some great ways to use it:
- As a spread on crackers, bread, or toasted baguette slices
- Stuffed into mushrooms or potatoes
- As a creamy dip for fresh vegetables
- In pasta, risottos, or gnocchi instead of cream sauce
- On top of pizza, flatbreads, or crostini
- Swirled into soups for added richness
- As a sandwich spread in place of mayo or mustard
- Dolloped on top of roasted or grilled vegetables
- As the filling in stuffed cherry tomatoes or cucumber cups
Homemade dairy-free Boursin also makes a great high-protein gift for vegan or dairy-free friends. Simply package it up in a nice jar or container.
Is Dairy-Free Boursin Healthy?
Looking at the nutrition information can help determine if dairy-free Boursin fits into a healthy diet:
Pros
- It can be lower in saturated fat than dairy Boursin if made with plant-based oils
- Provides protein from ingredients like tofu or cashews
- Offers probiotics from tofu or nut-based yogurts used as the base
- Contains no cholesterol unlike dairy Boursin
- Serves as an excellent source of vitamins and minerals from herbs and spices used
Cons
- Can be high in calories, fat, and sodium if not made carefully
- Some ingredients like coconut cream or oil are high in saturated fat
- Many prepared vegan cream cheeses contain additives and stabilizers
- The creamy texture promotes overconsumption
Enjoying dairy-free Boursin in moderation as part of an overall healthy diet is key. Pay attention to nutrition labels if buying pre-made vegan cream cheese and adjust recipes as needed to keep salt, fat, and calories in check.
Cost of Dairy-Free vs. Dairy Boursin
On average, pre-made dairy-free Boursin costs $4-$6 for an 8 ounce tub. Dairy Boursin tends to cost $2-$3 for the same size.
Of course, making dairy-free Boursin at home is much more affordable. Homemade versions can cost as little as $2-$3 total for ingredients. The hands-on time is minimal as well with just 10-15 minutes of prep.
So while buying dairy-free Boursin pre-made may be pricier, the homemade version is just as budget-friendly as traditional dairy Boursin. Considering the benefits of plant-based alternatives, dairy-free Boursin can be well worth the occasional splurge.
Dairy-Free vs. Regular Boursin Nutrition
How does the nutrition of dairy-free Boursin stack up against regular dairy Boursin? Here is a comparison of the two:
| Nutrition Facts | Dairy-Free Boursin | Dairy Boursin |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | 60 per 2 tbsp | 80 per 2 tbsp |
| Total Fat | 5g | 8g |
| Saturated Fat | 0.4g | 5g |
| Sodium | 150mg | 170mg |
| Protein | 2g | 2g |
| Calcium | 4% DV | 15% DV |
As shown, dairy-free Boursin is lower in calories, total fat, saturated fat, and sodium compared to regular dairy Boursin. However, dairy Boursin contains more calcium. Diets including dairy products tend to be higher in nutrients like calcium, vitamin D, and vitamin B12.
Those following plant-based diets can get nutrients like calcium from fortified non-dairy milks and yogurts as well as dark leafy greens. As with any diet, eating a balanced, varied diet focused on whole foods is key to getting all needed vitamins and minerals.
Environmental Impact of Dairy vs. Dairy-Free Boursin
Dairy production has a significant environmental footprint. The dairy industry contributes 4% of human-caused greenhouse gas emissions globally. Cows also require substantial land and water resources.
Studies by researchers at the University of Oxford found that producing 1 kg of dairy protein requires:
- 10-50 times more land than 1 kg of plant protein from nuts, peas, or beans
- 10 times more water than plant proteins
- 2 times more greenhouse gas emissions than plant proteins
So choosing plant-based dairy alternatives like those found in dairy-free Boursin offers environmental benefits. According to a 2018 study, if everyone in the US substituted plant milks for dairy milks, greenhouse gas emissions could be reduced by up to 82%.
Of course, not all plant-based options have an equal impact. Coconuts or cashews shipped from afar may have a larger footprint than local dairy. But overall, well-chosen dairy substitutes tend to be more eco-friendly than their dairy counterparts.
Conclusion
Dairy-free Boursin is a versatile, flavorful alternative to traditional Boursin for those avoiding dairy. It can be made from ingredients like tofu, nuts, coconut, and plant-based cream cheese to mimic the creamy texture and tangy taste of Boursin.
Herbs, garlic, and spices flavor dairy-free Boursin. And it can be enjoyed in a multitude of dishes from spreads to dips to sandwiches. While making dairy-free Boursin requires a few more specialized ingredients, it is relatively simple to DIY at home.
Compared to regular Boursin, the dairy-free version tends to be lower in calories, fat, and sodium. It also has environmental benefits given the large impact of dairy production. Overall, dairy-free Boursin enables anyone to enjoy this iconic cheese spread regardless of dietary needs or preferences.
