Here I want to talk to you about the kitchenware that we’ll use to make the recipes in this workshop.

It’s very straight forward, but I added this lesson because I want to make sure you have everything you need to get the best results when you make the recipes, so I’m providing some extra hand-holding.

If you’ve been using these small kitchen appliances for a while and feel that you don’t need this information, just skip this lesson or head straight to the kitchen.

The Food Processor

The food processor is a pretty common kitchen appliance, and many of you probably have it at home. I really like my food processor and use it in many of my recipes to this day.

When I was writing my first cookbook, Oy Vey Vegan,  I only used the food processor to create the cheeses, spreads, everything. So, I can tell you from experience that you can make all the recipes in this workshop with just a food processor.

While you won't get the same smooth consistency with the food processor as you would with the Vitamix, you will have good, yummy dishes.

If you don't want to spend the money on an expensive appliance like the Vitamix, you can easily do all of the recipes in this workshop and in my cookbook with your food processor.

The Magic Bullet Blender

The Bullet is one of my favorite tools in the kitchen.

• It’s affordable compared to other options, and you really get a lot for your money.
• You can reach the same smooth consistency with the Bullet as you would with the Vitamix.
• It’s super easy to use and clean. Simply put it in the dishwasher after each use, and you're done.
• It’s perfect for small quantities.

Super easy to use, great results and inexpensive - I love the Bullet!

The Vitamix

The Vitamix is the most powerful blender I know. 

The consistency that you get with the Vitamix is the smoothest, which is especially important when you make cheeses, smoothies, spreads, and everything that needs to get really smooth.

The nice thing about the Vitamix is that it's so strong it can get that super smooth texture even when making big batches, which is important when hosting a group.

The Vitamix is also one of the most expensive blenders in the market. 

When I learned about the Vitamix, I was a bit skeptical, because I thought that the food processor was good enough - I was getting good results with it, and I was happy. I wasn’t thrilled about adding another appliance to my kitchen. I was afraid that it’ll be another thing to take place in my cupboards or collect dust on my counter. 

I really waited quite a bit before taking the plunge, but I can assure you - I use it all the time! 

If you plan to start making your own plant-based cheeses, spreads, and smoothies, and if you want to get pro-level results, the Vitamix is definitely worth the investment.

The Vitamix vs. The Bullet vs. The Food Processor

The difference between the tools is in the consistency of the cheese that they allow you to create, in the batch size that they can handle, and of course, in their price.

You will get the smoothest consistency with the Vitamix and the Bullet. With the food processor, you’ll get a less smooth texture.

The Vitamix can handle larger batches compared to the bullet, which means that if you only have the bullet and you want to get that smooth consistency, you will need to blend in smaller batches, which may take you a little longer. On the other hand, the bullet is really perfect when you're making small batches as it's small and so easy to clean.

If you can afford it, I would go for the Vitamix.

Otherwise, you are fine with the bullet and a food processor.

Hand Mixer

A hand mixer also called a hand blender is a great tool to have in the kitchen. It is inexpensive, and you can do many of the recipes with it. In fact, I used the hand blender when I did the cheesy bites. But, you could do the cheesy bites also in the food processor. So, if you don't have the hand blender, it’s OK too. 

Other Kitchenware Used in This Workshop

These are basic items that you probably have in your kitchen or can easily find in stores:

• Containers to soak the cashews and almonds
• Strainer
• Spatula
• Wooden spoon
• Cutting board
• Bowls in different sizes
• Measuring cups
• Mixing spoons and cutting knives
• Molds
• Small and large ice cream scoops (optional)
• Silicon brush or olive oil spray (optional: baking cups)
• Rolling pin
• Baking sheets
• Mini muffin pan (12)
• Nonstick pan
• Cheesecloth
• Parchment paper and plastic wrap
• Containers to store the dishes (mason jar for the grated Parmesan)