Almond Milk
Almond milk is a creamy and nutritious plant-based beverage made by blending soaked raw almonds with filtered water. This simple recipe can be enhanced with a touch of sweetness from pitted dates for a delightful flavour, while a pinch of salt can be added for extra depth. Almond milk is dairy-free, low in calories, and rich in vitamins and healthy fats, making it an excellent alternative to cow's milk. Enjoy it in smoothies, cereals, or on its own for a refreshing drink!Although shop-bought packaged plant-based milks are convenient, making them yourself is super simple, fun and costs a fraction of shop-bought packages and can be made without the oil needed.Source your quality nuts from bulk food stores, as they work out a lot cheaper. Make sure you buy really fresh nuts, organic if possible and get creative!
Equipment
- 1 High speed blender 900w minimum
- sterilised glass bottles
- Muslin or cheesecloth for straining or a very clean dish towel. You can also buy purpose-built bags.
Ingredients
- 1 cup raw almonds soaked in cold filtered water overnight
- 5 cups filtered water try not to use tap water
- 2 pitted dates if you want it sweet
- a pinch of salt optional
- For variations in flavour, try adding one teaspoon of vanilla essence.
Instructions
- Drain and rinse almonds and place in the blender with salt and dates if using.
- Add the 5 cups of water.
- Blend on high speed for two minutes.
- Strain using the muslin or nut bag or a thin sanitized dish towel. If no nut bag is available, lay the clean dish towel over a mixing bowl, pour over the almond milk then carefully gather the corners, and lift up. Then, squeeze until all of the liquid is extracted. The pulp can be discarded or used in other ways, such as homemade crackers.
- Transfer milk to a sterilised covered bottle and refrigerate. The milk will stay in the fridge for 4-5 days, although it is best when fresh. Shake the milk bottle well before using, as it tends to separate.
- This recipe has approx. 10 grams of calcium per half cup serve and no cholesterol.
Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!