For $2.39, I picked up a small (8 oz/227 g) tub of this cream cheese substitute spread at Aldi. At that time, I hadn't noticed it contains 9g of fat, 4.5 saturated and 2 trans. I guess I was so existed to find a non-dairy alternative that I forgot to read the label!
First of all, it's *** VERY smooth***, firm and thick, just like cream cheese. Although it doesn't taste like cream cheese, and there is a slight soy flavor, the taste isn't offensive or strong. Really, as a substitute, it's pretty good in terms of the in-your-mouth experience, although I would probably not eat it plain. I didn't see a flavored variety at Aldi, though.
Much to my disappointment, though, not only does it have trans fat, it also contains gums (guar & xanthan) my body is intolerant of, so I won't be using it again. It's a shame, because I really wanted something to simulate dairy dips like french onion and dill. Does anyone have any suggestions?
I decided I wanted to make a dip right away, so I took about 4 oz and mixed it in a short coffee mug with about the same amount, maybe less, of warm water, as well as a healthy dose of Specially Selected Smoked Chili Salt.
It takes a bit of stirring to mix it together, and I didn't bother to get all the lumps out, but it turned out well. To test it, I dipped two different brands of tortilla chips in it...But that's in a video review I've prepared.
If you're one of the millions who doesn't care that much about your health, that flavor and a full tummy trump the consequences of eating food that may hurt you, I can safely recommend this spread. However, if you're supposed to stay away from trans fat and the like, you'll have to avoid this.
