Are you confused about deciding between Dairy Milk vs Plant-Based Milk? Plant-based milks are an increasingly popular dietary staple, but which one is best for your nutritional needs? Or maybe you prefer the homemade version! If that’s the case, why not try making your own plant-based milk at home – it’s easy to do!
In this blog post, we’ll explore some of the different types of DIY plant-based milks, their benefits and some tips on how to make them. So whether you’re a vegan or just trying something new, let’s go through all there is to know about DIY plant-based milks.
Plant-Based Milk
Plant-based milks have become increasingly popular in recent years as more people adopt plant-based diets or seek alternatives to cow’s milk due to lactose intolerance, allergies, or ethical concerns. There are numerous types of plant-based milk available in the market, each with its unique flavour, texture, and nutritional profile.
Here are some of the most popular types of plant-based milk:
1. Almond Milk: Made from a combination of ground almonds and water, almond milk has a creamy texture and a nutty flavour. It also contains vitamin E and is low in calories.
2. Soy Milk: Soy milk is a beverage made by blending soybeans and water. It has a smooth texture and a mild, nutty taste. Additionally, it is an excellent source of protein and calcium.
3. Oat Milk: Rolled oats and water are the only ingredients used to make oat milk. This plant-based milk has a distinctly sweet and creamy taste, along with a slightly thicker texture. Oat milk is also a nutrient-rich beverage, providing a good amount of fibre and iron.
4. Coconut Milk: The process of making coconut milk involves blending mature coconut meat with water. This results in a thick, smooth liquid with a mildly sweet taste. Although it has a high level of saturated fat, it also contains lauric acid, which is thought to possess antibacterial and antiviral properties.
5. Rice Milk: Brown rice and water are used to make rice milk. It has a mildly sweet taste and a thin consistency. Although it is low in calories and fat, it is not high in protein.
6. Hemp Milk: Hemp milk is a type of milk that is made by blending hemp seeds with water. It has a distinctive nutty taste and a smooth, creamy texture. Additionally, it contains a high amount of both omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, making it a healthy choice.
7. Cashew Milk: Ground cashews and water are used to make cashew milk, which has a sweet, nutty taste and a creamy texture. It is also low in calories and a good source of vitamin E.
Plant-based milk can be a great alternative to cow’s milk for those who are lactose intolerant, allergic to dairy, or simply looking for a healthier option. It is important to note that not all plant-based milk is nutritionally equal, so it’s important to read the labels and choose the type that best suits your needs.
Benefits of Making Plant-Based Milk at Home
There are numerous benefits to making your plant-based milk at home. Firstly, it’s cost-effective. Buying plant-based milk from the grocery store can be expensive, but making it at home can save you money. Secondly, you have control over the ingredients used in the process. You can customise the sweetness, flavour, and consistency to your personal preference. Thirdly, making plant-based milk at home is an eco-friendly alternative. You can reduce waste and environmental impact by reusing the nut pulp as a base for other recipes, such as crackers, energy balls, or even as gluten-free flour replacement.
How to Make Plant-Based Milk at Home
Making plant-based milk at home is simple and cost-effective. It allows you to control the ingredients and avoid any additives or preservatives that may be present in store-bought varieties. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to make plant-based milk at home:
Step 1: Choose Your Base Ingredient
Select the ingredient you want to use as the base for your milk. The most popular options are nuts, seeds, grains, or coconut. Some popular choices include almonds, cashews, oats, hemp seeds, rice, and shredded coconut.
Step 2: Soak Your Base Ingredient
Soak your chosen ingredient in water for a few hours or overnight. Soaking helps to soften the ingredient and make it easier to blend. The soaking time varies depending on the ingredient, but most nuts and seeds should be soaked for at least 4 hours, while oats can be soaked for just 30 minutes.
Step 3: Rinse and Drain
After soaking, rinse the ingredient thoroughly and drain off the water. This helps to remove any impurities and improve the taste of the milk.
Step 4: Blend with Water
Add your soaked and drained ingredient to a blender with fresh water. The ratio of water to base ingredient depends on the desired consistency of your milk. A general rule of thumb is to use 1 cup of base ingredient to 4 cups of water. Blend on high speed until smooth and creamy.
Step 5: Strain
Pour the blended mixture through a nut milk bag, cheesecloth, or fine-mesh strainer to remove any pulp or solids. Squeeze the bag or cheesecloth to extract as much milk as possible.
Step 6: Optional Additions
Add any additional flavourings or sweeteners to taste. Some popular options include vanilla extract, honey, maple syrup, or dates.
Step 7: Store and Enjoy
Pour the milk into a jar or bottle and store it in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Shake well before using, as separation may occur. Enjoy your homemade plant-based milk in smoothies, coffee, cereal, or as a refreshing drink on its own.
Creative Ways to Use Plant-Based Milk
Plant-based milk can be used in various recipes, from baking to cooking to beverages. Here are a few ideas:
● Use plant-based milk instead of cow’s milk in recipes such as pancakes, muffins, or waffles.
● Make a creamy sauce using plant-based milk as the base.
● Use it as a substitute for cow’s milk in coffee, tea, or smoothies.
● Make vegan ice cream using plant-based milk as a base.
Making plant-based milk at home is a great way to save money, have control over the ingredients used, and reduce waste. It’s a simple process that requires minimal equipment and can be used in various recipes. With these tips and tricks, you can make your plant-based milk at home with ease.
So give it a try and enjoy the delicious, creamy plant-based milk!
