People are drinking less cow’s milk and buying more plant-based milk alternatives. Consumers are now concerned about the adverse effects of cow’s milk’s high levels of dairy fats, cholesterol, and hormones.
If you want a dairy-free, healthy alternative to cow’s milk, almond milk may be the answer. Luckily, making it at home is easy and can save you a bundle with our cooking tips.
Read on to learn how to make your almond milk.
Gather Your Ingredients and Supplies:
To make your own almond milk, you’ll need to buy almonds as the main ingredients. Gather supplies, including a high-powered blender, a fine mesh strainer, a nut milk bag, and a large bowl.
You also need a container to store your almond milk. Once your supplies are gathered, it’s time to begin the process.
Soak and Drain the Almonds:
Select your desired almonds: raw, blanched, or slivered will all work, though texture and flavor will vary. To make your almond milk, the first step is to soak and drain the almonds.
This helps to break down their complex structure, as well as release their flavor and nutrition. Start by placing 2/3 cup of almonds into a medium bowl and submerge them in water.
Allow them to soak for 6-8 hours or overnight (recommended). Once the almonds have finished soaking, drain off the water and rinse off the almonds with fresh, cold water.
This will help remove any enzymes and antinutrients found in almonds. It will enable you to reap the full range of health benefits.
Blend with Water and Strain:
Measure out one cup of the best almonds and place in a blender with four cups of water. Place the almonds in a blender and add 4 to 6 cups of filtered cold water.
Blend the almonds and water at high speed until a milky liquid is formed. After blending, place two layers of cheesecloth over a deep bowl, then pour the mixture through the cheesecloth.
Strike a balance of liquid-to-almond ratio by adding less or more water depending on the desired consistency. Repeat blending one cup of almonds and straining the mixture for a smoother and creamier final result.
Enhance your Milk for Added Flavor:
To enhance the flavor, you can add vanilla extract, coconut, cocoa powder, chia, sesame, flax, or pumpkin seeds. You may also enjoy adding dates, cinnamon, maca powder, or sea salt.
You can also sweeten it with organic honey, maple syrup, or organic agave if desired. Experiment to find your favorite flavor combinations.
Finally, pour the milk into an air-tight container and store it in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Serve your almond milk with cereal, oatmeal, smoothies, or even in your favorite baked goods.
Easy Almond Cooking Tips:
Making your own almond milk is a great way to get more control of what goes into your food and help the environment. Enjoy experimenting with different flavors and enjoy this creamy, gluten-free delicious treat!
Stop throwing away your money on store-bought almond milk! Try these cooking tips to find out just how simple and healthy homemade almond milk can be.
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