Home-Made Almond Milk
Almonds are packed with magnesium, potassium, copper, manganese, vitamin E, selenium, and calcium. Almond milk contains the same nutrients as whole almonds, making it a healthy alternative to cow's milk. Be aware, however, that the concentration of minerals and vitamins in almond milk is significantly lower than in whole nuts. Almond milk is available in most health stores but you can also make your own milk (see below).
Some almond milk manufacturers use additives and sweeteners in their products, so read the labels carefully! A great alternative to buying almond milk is to make your own home-made variety. It might sound like a lot of work, but it is in fact a cinch to prepare:
Basic Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 cup almonds
- 3 cups water
Directions
- Grind almonds in a coffee grinder. Place ground almonds into blender and add water. Blend for 2 to 3 minutes.
- Strain mixture using a sieve, sprout bag, or cheesecloth into a large carafe.
- Consume immediately or refrigerate for later use (it lasts in a refrigerator for at least a few days). Shake well before use.
Vanilla Almond Milk
Ingredients
- 1 cup almonds
- 3 cups water
- Seeds of 1 vanilla bean
- Honey, stevia, or brown sugar, to taste
Directions
- Grind almonds in a coffee grinder. Place ground almonds into blender and add water. Blend for 2 to 3 minutes.
- Strain mixture using a sieve, sprout bag, or cheesecloth into a large bowl.
- Pour back into blender and add vanilla and sweetener. Blend well.
- Consume immediately, or pour into a large carafe and refrigerate for later use (it lasts in a refrigerator for at least a few days). Shake well before use.