Unsugared Almond Milk
Making almond milk from almond butter is a convenient and quick way to enjoy homemade almond milk without the need for soaking and blending whole almonds. This method is particularly beneficial for busy individuals who want to incorporate nutritious, homemade plant-based milk into their diet without spending too much time in the kitchen.
Here's a straightforward and efficient recipe to make fresh almond milk using almond butter and filtered water:
Serves 4
Total time: 5 minutes
Ingredients
2 tablespoons almond butter (preferably raw and unsweetened)
2 cups filtered water
Optional for flavor: A pinch of sea salt, 1-2 dates or 1 tablespoon of maple syrup for sweetness, 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Assemble It
Blend Ingredients: In a high-speed blender, combine the almond butter and filtered water. If you're opting to add any of the optional ingredients for flavor (sea salt, sweetener, vanilla extract), add them now.
Blend Until Smooth: Blend on high for 1-2 minutes or until the mixture is thoroughly combined and smooth. There should be no separation of water and almond butter; it should become creamy and milk-like.
Taste and Adjust: Give your almond milk a quick taste. If you prefer it a bit sweeter or more flavorful, feel free to add a bit more sweetener or vanilla extract and blend again for a few seconds. But remember, this is all about unsugaring - so if you don’t absolutely need the flavor, skip it!
Strain (Optional): For an even smoother texture, you can strain the almond milk using a nut milk bag, cheesecloth, or a fine mesh strainer. However, this step is often unnecessary when using almond butter, as it should already be quite smooth.
Store and Refrigerate: Pour the almond milk into a clean bottle or jar and store it in the refrigerator. Homemade almond milk is best enjoyed within 3-5 days. Shake well before each use, as it may naturally separate over time.
Tips for Success
Quality Matters: The taste of your almond milk greatly depends on the almond butter you use. Opt for high-quality, raw, and unsweetened almond butter for the best flavor.
Water Ratio Adjustments: Feel free to adjust the water ratio according to your preference. Less water will result in creamier almond milk, while more water will make it lighter.
Nutritional Benefits of Homemade Almond Milk
Almond milk made from almond butter retains most of the nutritional benefits of almonds, including being a good source of Vitamin E, magnesium, and healthy fats. It's a fantastic dairy-free, lactose-free, and vegan alternative to traditional milk.
Enjoy your homemade almond milk in smoothies, oatmeal, coffee, or simply by itself! Not only is this method quick and easy, but it also allows you to control the ingredients, avoiding the additives and preservatives often found in store-bought versions. Cheers to health, convenience, and the joy of making your own nutritious, unsugared almond milk at home! 🥛✨