Making almond milk at home is an easy and rewarding process that not only saves you money but also gives you control over the ingredients and flavor of your milk. This guide will walk you through the steps to make delicious almond milk and explore other popular nut milks like cashew, oat, and hazelnut.
Why Make Your Own Almond Milk?
Homemade almond milk has several advantages over store-bought versions:
- No Additives: Commercial nut milks often contain preservatives and sweeteners. Making your own ensures a pure, natural product.
- Cost-Effective: Bulk almonds are less expensive than packaged almond milk.
- Eco-Friendly: Reduce packaging waste by making nut milk at home.
Ingredients and Equipment Needed
- Ingredients: 1 cup raw almonds, 4 cups water (plus more for soaking), optional sweeteners or flavorings (vanilla, dates, or cinnamon).
- Equipment: A blender, a large bowl, a strainer, cheesecloth or a nut milk bag, and a storage container.
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Almond Milk
- Soak the Almonds: Place the almonds in a bowl and cover them with about 2 inches of water. Soak them overnight, or for at least 12 hours. This softens the almonds and makes them easier to blend.
- Drain and Rinse: Drain the almonds and rinse them under cool running water. At this point, the almonds should feel a little squishy if you pinch them.
- Blend with Water: Add the soaked almonds and 4 cups of water to your blender. Blend on high for two minutes. The water should turn white and creamy.
- Strain the Almond Mixture: Place the strainer over a bowl and line it with the cheesecloth or nut milk bag. Pour the almond mixture into the strainer. Press all the almond milk from the almond meal with the back of a spoon or by squeezing the bag.
- Sweeten or Flavor (Optional): Return the milk to the blender and add any desired sweeteners or flavors. Blend briefly to mix.
- Store: Pour the milk into a storage container and refrigerate. Homemade almond milk will keep for up to five days.
Exploring Other Nut Milks
While almond milk is a popular choice, other nut milks like cashew milk, hazelnut milk, and oat milk offer different flavors and nutritional profiles. Each follows a similar preparation process and can be a delicious alternative to try.
EseWellé Nut Milk Maker
For those who frequently make nut milk or are looking for a more efficient method, the EseWellé Nut Milk Maker is an excellent kitchen addition. This device simplifies the process, ensuring you get perfectly smooth, rich nut milk every time with minimal effort.
Learn More
For more detailed instructions and recipe ideas, visit Oh She Glows and Minimalist Baker , both of which offer a range of plant-based recipes and guides on making various nut milks.
