How to Make Almond Milk

If you’ve never heard of almond milk before, it might be surprising that it’s possible to make milk from nuts. Almond milk is not a new phenomenon. In fact, it has been used since the Middle Ages. It is widely used as a replacement for ordinary milk. You can buy a carton of almond milk from most local food stores and vendors. However, learning how to make almond milk at home can be cheaper and fun.

Nutrients in Almond Milk

Almond milk is selling out everywhere partly because of its nutritional profile. While ordinary, store-bought milk is relatively healthy, most of its nutrients are pasteurized out. Almond milk, on the other hand, does not have any artificial additives and is filled with the vitamins and minerals found in almond nuts.

Almond milk is a great dairy alternative for vegetarians and vegans because it does not have the cholesterol or fat found in cow’s milk. It naturally contains vitamins A, B and D for improved immunity and energy. It features the minerals potassium, phosphorus, zinc and calcium for stronger bones,  muscle, immunity and cell creation.

How to Make Almond Milk at Home

Almond milk is essentially made from ground almonds and water. The almonds give it an obviously nutty flavor and it can be sweetened with sugar, honey or maple syrup. To learn how to make almond milk, you’ll need:

• 1 cup almonds
• Water as needed
• Strainer
• Food processor/blender
• Cheesecloth

Step 1:

If you’re a beginner learning how to make almond milk, it is best to soak your nuts in cold water for 2 days first. This improves texture and makes almonds easier to work with. Drain water and rinse.

Step 2:

Add almonds and 2 cups of water into a blender. Add almonds first before water.

Step 3:

Blend on the highest setting until almonds are completely pureed and water is white. This might take 2-4 minutes.

Step 4:

Pour blended almond milk through a strainer lined with cheese cloth. When the almond mixture has collected in the cheese cloth, close and twist it. Extract the milk into a glass or jug.

Step 5:

Add sweeteners if you prefer and refrigerate for later use. Leftover almond mixture can be used in cereals, shakes, smoothies and to add a nutty flavor to other recipes.

How to Make Almond Milk Tips and Tricks

If you want to make a healthy, diabetic and weight-friendly version of almond milk, do not use sweeteners. Adding sugar piles up the calories and can de-stabilize blood sugar. Almond milk has as long a shelf like as normal milk does. It is wise to use it within 7 days. The milk is safe for gluten and lactose-intolerant people, but might be dangerous if you are allergic to almonds.

Almond milk is the ultimate substitute for your store-bought milk. It is jam-packed with nutrients, and safe for diabetics, dieters, vegetarians, vegans and lactose-intolerant people. It can be sweetened to your liking and contains only organic ingredients. Learn how to make almond milk to use in desserts, pastry and many other recipes.