Almond Milk: The Natural Alternative to Dairy! Discover the Benefits and Learn How to Make Your Own
Revised Post:
Go Nuts! Almond Milk, The Natural Alternative To Dairy!
(Article Reprint, Raw-Riffic Happenings! Issue 8/15/09, e-Newsletter)
If you are lactose intolerant like me, cow’s milk is out of the question. But don't worry, there's a delicious alternative that offers numerous health benefits—almond milk! Discover the historical significance of almond milk, its nutritional value, and how you can easily make your own at home.
Almond milk has been used for centuries and was the preferred drink during the Middle Ages due to its high protein content and longer shelf life compared to dairy milk. It was a suitable choice during Lent and widely consumed in regions from the Middle East to East Asia.
Not only is almond milk a fantastic option for vegetarians and vegans, but it is also preferred over soy milk, which many people have a low tolerance for. This dairy-free milk is nutritious, low in saturated fat, and lactose-free. Packed with B vitamins, vitamin E, and minerals such as zinc, magnesium, and iron, almond milk is a great source of brain food and has been associated with reducing the risk of heart attacks.
Unlike commercially made almond milk, which often contains additives and sweeteners, homemade almond milk offers superior nutrition and taste. By following a simple recipe, you can create creamy almond milk in the comfort of your own kitchen. Soak raw almonds overnight, blend them with purified water, and customize the flavor by adding pitted dates or a touch of raw agave nectar. To achieve a smooth texture and longer shelf life, you can also include lecithin granules.
Straining the milk ensures a silky finish. Use a nylon or silk mesh bag, or even muslin or tights, to separate the milk from the pulp. Once strained, your homemade almond milk is ready to be enjoyed in cereals, smoothies, shakes, ice cream, and even nut cheeses.
Making your own almond milk allows you to avoid commercially made products that may lack nutrition and contain additives. Though readily available in many grocery stores and supermarkets, these products do not match the quality of fresh, raw almond milk.
Now, let's get started and make your own almond milk with this simple recipe:
Raw Almond Milk Recipe:
Ingredients:
1 cup raw almonds (soaked for 8 hours)
2-3 pitted dates
½ tsp. non-alcoholic, organic vanilla extract
1 tsp. lecithin granules
4-5 cups purified water
Instructions:
Soak raw almonds for at least 8 hours or overnight.
Blend soaked almonds, pitted dates, vanilla extract, lecithin granules, and purified water in a blender until smooth.
Adjust the consistency by adding more or less water.
Strain the milk using a nylon or silk mesh bag, muslin, or tights.
Squeeze out the milk into a container, and discard or repurpose the remaining pulp.
Store the almond milk in an airtight container, preferably a mason jar, in the refrigerator for up to 4 or 5 days.
Enjoy the creamy and nutritious goodness of homemade almond milk!
Expand your nut milk repertoire with this delightful chocolate variation:
Chocolate Raw Cashew Milk Recipe:
Ingredients:
1 to 1 ½ cups raw cashews (soaked for 2-4 hours)
2-3 tablespoons raw cacao or raw carob powder
1 tablespoon raw coconut butter (optional)
3-4 pitted dates
½ tsp. non-alcoholic, organic vanilla extract
1 tsp. lecithin granules
4-5 cups purified water
Instructions:
Follow the same instructions as for the raw almond milk recipe, substituting cashews and adding raw cacao or carob powder and raw coconut butter for a delicious chocolatey twist.
Now that you know how to make your own almond milk, you can enjoy its numerous health benefits while avoiding dairy-related discomfort. Experiment with flavors, and discover the versatility of almond milk in various culinary creations.
Where can you find almond or nut milk? Nowadays, an increasing number of grocery stores and supermarkets, both natural and mass retailers, carry a variety of almond nut milks. However, remember that commercially made almond milk might not offer the same nutritional value as freshly made raw almond milk. By preparing your own, you can ensure the highest quality and taste.
Unleash the power of almond milk and savor a dairy-free experience that is both nutritious and delicious!
Source List:
Original Article: "Raw-Riffic Happenings! Issue 8/15/09, e-Newsletter" by Debbie Marsh, Raw-Riffic Food.
Source for historical information: "Article Reprint, Raw-Riffic Happenings! Issue 8/15/09, e-Newsletter" by Debbie Marsh, Raw-Riffic Food.
This is awesome! Cannot wait to try out this recipe. Thank you!