Blend cashews with filtered water until very smooth. Place in a 1/2 gallon open-mouthed glass jar. Cover tightly with plastic wrap and secure with a rubber band. Cover with a towel and allow to sit in a warm place overnight. Pour cashew mixture into a large mixing bowl, combine with remaining ingredients and mix well. Variations: Use macadamia nuts or pine nuts; or blend 1 cup of chopped red pepper with cultured cashew mixture, before adding the remaining ingredients; or replace cilantro with other fresh herbs; or add 1/4 cup grated carrots or beets; or replace bell pepper with other fresh veggies. Serve with crackers or salad. From Vegan World Fusion Cuisine cookbook.

2 cups cashews
1 cup filtered water
1/3 cup red bell pepper, diced
2 1/2 tablespoon green onion, diced
2 tablespoon cilantro, minced
1 teaspoon garlic, minced (optional)
1 teaspoon Nama shoyu, or to taste
1/4 teaspoon sea salt, or to taste
pinch crushed red pepper flakes