Introduction
Almond milk is one of the most popular plant-based dairy alternatives on the market today. Almond milk is tasty, low in calories and often fortified with calcium and other important vitamins and minerals. This makes it an excellent dairy-free, lactose-free option for those looking to reduce their dairy intake. But, did you know that almond milk can be made from scratch in your own kitchen? Making almond milk from scratch is not only nutritious but also cost-effective, meaning all the more savings in your pocket! In this article, we’ll discuss how to make your own almond milk and the benefits of making it yourself.
Nutritious Ingredients
Almonds are one of the healthiest and most nutritious tree nuts available, filled with healthy fats, fiber, and protein. They can be made into almond flour, almond butter, or almond milk. The best way to make almond milk is using raw almonds from the store. Make sure you buy high-quality organic almonds from a reliable source since some brands may use almond oil instead of real almonds.
Almonds, water, and a few other ingredients are all that’s needed to create the perfect homemade almond milk. To flavor your almond milk, you can add a few drops of vanilla extract, cinnamon, or even cocoa powder. This will give the almond milk a great taste and an extra boost of flavor. Additionally, you can add a pinch of salt to balance the sweetness.
Soaking and Straining
Making almond milk from scratch requires soaking the almonds in water for 10 to 12 hours. This special process helps hydrate the almonds and make them easier to blend and strain. After soaking the almonds, they must be blended in a high-powered food processor or a blender with enough water until a creamy mixture forms.
The final step of making almond milk is to strain away the pulp from the liquid. This can be done using a nut milk bag or a cheesecloth. The almond milk can then be placed in an airtight container and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Benefits
The biggest advantages of making your own almond milk are that it is much more economical than store-bought varieties. It is also more nutritious as the store bought versions may have more preservatives, added sugar, additives, and artificial coloring.
Making almond milk yourself also ensures that you know which ingredients are in it. You can also customize the sweetness, flavor, or nutty taste of your almond milk, allowing you to choose the exact flavor you want.
Taste and Texture
Homemade almond milk has a slightly different taste and texture than store-bought varieties. The taste of homemade almond milk is richer and creamier, although it may have a slightly nutty flavor. The texture is more akin to a milkshake as it is slightly thicker and not quite as smooth.
Homemade almond milk is also more versatile than store-bought varieties; it can be used in smoothies, oatmeal, baking, and more. So why not give it a try and start experimenting with this delicious and nutritious nut milk!
Nutritional Content Comparison
Almond milk may contain fewer calories than many other popular dairy-free milk substitutes; however, store-bought varieties often contain additional sugars, oils, and thickeners. Homemade almond milk, however, contains none of these unnecessary additives and typically contains fewer calories and carbohydrates than store-bought versions. Depending on the number of almonds used, homemade almond milk can contain anywhere between 100 to 180 calories per cup.
Homemade almond milk also contains more protein than store-bought varieties. On average, store-bought versions contain just 1-2 grams of proteins per serving, while homemade almond milk can contain up to 7 grams. Additionally, store-bought varieties often contain a high amount of added sugars, while homemade almond milk contains none.
Almond milk is also naturally rich in essential vitamins and minerals such as vitamin E, potassium, calcium, and magnesium. By adding a tablespoon of dark leafy greens during the blending process, you can add even more nutritional benefits to your glass.
Use in Food and Drinks
Almond milk can be used in numerous dishes and drinks. It can be used to make plant-based milkshakes, coffees, and smoothies. Additionally, almond milk’s creamy texture makes it ideal for adding to breakfast cereals, porridges, and flavored yogurts. It can also be used as a creamy substitute for milk in baking recipes and as a vegan cheese replacement.
Almond milk is a great alternative to dairy and is an easy and simple way to reduce your intake of dairy products. Plus, it is naturally dairy-free and lactose-free, making it perfect for vegans and those with dairy sensitivities.
Summary and Tips
Making almond milk from scratch is an easy and delicious way to enjoy dairy-free and lactose-free milks without all the unwanted additives. Almond milk is creamy and nutritious, making it a great addition to any diet. Plus, it is more cost-effective and nutritious than store-bought varieties.
When making almond milk, it is important to purchase high-quality organic almonds to ensure maximum nutrition. Additionally, be sure to soak the almonds for 10 to 12 hours to properly hydrate them and make them easier to blend and strain. You can customize your almond milk with different flavors, such as vanilla, cinnamon, or cocoa powder. Finally, make sure to store your almond milk in an airtight jar in the fridge and use it within 3 days for best results.
