First things first, let’s prepare those cashews. Soaking them will soften them and make the blending process a breeze. How long? At least 30 minutes for a creamy texture, but if you’re in a pinch, even a 10-minute soak in hot water works!

Once your cashews have soaked, drain them and give them a quick rinse under cool water. This step helps eliminate any excess starch.

Now the magic begins. Add the soaked cashews, water, nutritional yeast, chili seasoning, garlic powder, cumin, paprika, sea salt, and lime juice to your blender. Here’s where you can also toss in any of those optional ingredients if you’re feeling adventurous.

Pop the lid on your blender and start blending. You want a smooth and creamy consistency. If it’s too thick, add a little more water until you reach your desired texture.

Remember to stop and taste. This is your creation! You might want to add a pinch more salt or lime juice. Adjust the seasoning to suit your palate.

Transfer your freshly made queso into a serving bowl, and dig in! Serve it warm with your favorite tortilla chips or use it as a topping for other dishes.