Favourite dairy free alternatives
I’ve always had issues digesting dairy products even when I was an infant. It has always been one of the main food groups to cause my IBS flair ups, but it wasn’t until adult life that I had a formal diagnosis; a dairy allergy.
Once I had that diagnosis I cut dairy products from my diet and instantly felt a lot better. No more bloating to the point of looking pregnant, no more painful cramps or other less pleasant symptons! But I was missing two of my favourite snacks, Nestle Rolo chocolates and Tesco cheese snacks.
I soon found there were many suitable alternatives available on market. So to celebrate Veganuary I’d like to share some of my favourite dairy free alternatives with you.
Tesco giant chocolate buttons
These have been a life saver when I’ve needed a chocolate fix and very reasonable at £2.00 a bag. The chocolate itself can be best described as tasting like “own brand” advent calendar chocolates.
As well as eating them as a snack they also melt reasonably well so I’ve been able to use them in baking and for making shaped chocolates.
Alpro unsweetend soya milk
Alpro soya milk has been my go to alternative for milk. I prefer the unsweetened version and love it over cereal, in a mug of hot chocolate or used to make some fluffy mashed potato.
Alpro chocolate soya milk
When I’m craving milkshake, the Alpro chocolate soya milk is my favourite. It actually tastes chocolate-y and I enjoy having one of the small cartons as a treat. Ive yet to find a good banana milkshake substitute though! So if you have any recommendations, please let me know.
Flora dairy free spread
I’ve tried various dairy free spread but Flora is definitely my favourite and, from what I remember, resembles the dairy version very well. In fact my family couldn’t tell the difference!
Tesco free from grated mozzarella
Although it doesn’t melt well and has a very distinct smell (I think it’s the coconut), it does taste good and is the best grated cheese alternative I’ve found. I like to use it in a pasta bake, sprinkled on top of spaghetti bolognese or in various Mexican dishes.
Violife sliced cheese
These are great for topping a burger (vegetarian or otherwise), in a sandwich or grilled. I’ve always been known to snack on them.
Tesco free from white lasagne sauce
After trying various free from ready meals with tasteless sauces I decided to give this sauce a try. It has that same distinct smell as the grated cheese above, but is perfect to use in white pasta bakes and in lasagne dishes.
Kirstys free from margherita pizza
Although it’s on the pricey side at £3.00 each this pizza is perfect! The cheese melts well and it tastes exactly like I remember a real pizza tasting. I love adding my own toppings to it such as chicken or pepperoni.
What about desserts?
Sugar free jelly has always been my favourite dessert, even as a child. Other than jelly I have been enjoying Tesco free from chocolate mousses and Coconut Collaborative’s dairy free salted caramel pots, both are very “more-ish”. I can never have just one.
As for ice cream, I’m very happy that Ben and Jerry’s offer an almond milk version of their chocolate fudge brownie ice cream now. It’s delicious!
What are some of your dairy free favourites? Have you tried any of the ones I’ve listed? Let me know in the comments. 😊
8 Comments
Ashley Firth
February 5, 2019 at 21:01
I have similar issues with dairy products (I’m currently undergoing tests to try and identify the problem). I must try sugar-free jelly! I always struggle with what to eat at dessert. I’m glad that Tesco seem to have a decent range to choose from xxx
Kim
February 6, 2019 at 12:07
I hope your tests go well and you find the route cause soon. It took me ages to get a diagnosis. but I’m glad I finally have one. I’m obsessed with sugar free jelly! 💗 It feels like you’re having a naughty treat but you’re actually not. I’ve also heard good things about Asda and Sainsbury’s ranges but don’t have either near me. xxx
Gina
February 5, 2019 at 18:40
I’m so glad that there are great alternatives for those who have to go dairy free! I’m not huge on dairy myself, other than cheese, and I’m slowly pulling away from that too! Then I will be able to say I’m vegan, but none of the vegan cheeses sit well with me, so I’ll stick with working on weaning myself of cheese. So glad you have found what you need to stay healthy!
Kim
February 6, 2019 at 12:04
Thanks Gina. Cheese was the hardest thing I had to give up!
Alisha Valerie
February 5, 2019 at 17:44
YES GIRL! Being vegan myself I adore that you have shared this blog post, 💜
With love, Alisha Valerie x | http://www.alishavalerie.com
Kim
February 6, 2019 at 08:03
Thank you lovely! 😊xxx
Kelly Diane
January 30, 2019 at 19:11
I use the flora spread but some of the others I hadn’t heard of. I will especially be trying out the cheese
Kim
February 7, 2019 at 06:07
I hope you like them. 😊