All You Need Is Beans To Make A Creamy Vegan Sauce

When you think of creamy sauces, your mind might instantly wander to rich, dairy-filled concoctions that drench pasta and vegetables in a velvety coat. But what if you could achieve that same luscious texture without a hint of dairy? The secret to an indulgent vegan cream sauce is simpler than you'd think: beans.

In the world of vegan culinary wonders, beans have emerged as unsung heroes, proving that you don't need dairy to get that delightful creaminess in your sauces. So, why are beans the answer to your dairy-free creamy dreams?

Beans, by nature, possess a creamy texture once blended. Their neutral taste also provides a perfect canvas for various flavors, from savory to sweet, making them a blank canvas. Not only do beans lend a creamy texture, but they're also a powerhouse of nutrients. Rich in protein, fiber, and essential vitamins, beans make your sauce not only tasty but also incredibly nutritious. But best of all, the variety of beans available means you can experiment and find the perfect texture and flavor for your desired sauce.

Of course, simply whipping up beans will not create the vegan cream sauce of your dreams. But there are plenty of other tips for achieving a velvety-smooth plant-based sauce. For example, to ensure the perfect texture, make good use of a blender or food processor. For a silky sauce, blend the beans until they're completely pureed. If you do not remove the skins from the beans in advance, then you will want to ensure the sauce is blended well enough to have broken them down. 

It is also important to build your cream sauce by layering classic flavors. Start with sautéing garlic or onions as a base. Depending on the type of sauce, you can add herbs, spices, or even nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor. Remember, beans are versatile and take on flavors beautifully. Depending on your preference, you can even adjust the consistency of your sauce. For a thicker sauce, add less liquid; for a thinner one, add a bit more water or vegetable broth. You can even opt for unsweetened dairy-free milk for a creamier flavor.

Finally, to take your creamy vegan sauce to new heights, introduce additional starch such as xanthan gum or pasta water. Adding more starch can emulate creaminess while balancing out the liquids. It's also a helpful way to reign in a loose vegan sauce.

Creating a creamy vegan sauce isn't a distant dream. With hearty beans, you can recreate rich sauces with ease.