Almond milk has become one of the most popular plant-based alternatives to dairy milk. It is light, nutritious, and free from preservatives or artificial emulsifiers often found in packaged versions. Making almond milk at home is not only simple but also allows you to enjoy it fresh, in its purest form.
At Zama, we believe that food made at home connects us more deeply with the ingredients we use. Almond milk is a great example. With just a handful of almonds, some water, and a few minutes of effort, you can prepare milk that is clean, natural, and versatile. It can be used in tea, coffee, smoothies, or desserts, and the best part is you know exactly what has gone into it.
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Recipe Details
Ingredients
1 cup raw almonds
1-2 cups water (for blending)
1-2 drops vanilla extract (optional)
Step-by-Step Process
Step 1: Soak the Almonds
Start by soaking 1 cup of raw almonds in water for 6–8 hours or overnight. Soaking softens the almonds, making them easier to peel and blend, while also improving digestibility.
Step 2: Peel the Almonds
Once soaked, drain the water and gently squeeze the almonds to remove their skins. This step ensures your almond milk has a smooth, creamy texture without bitterness.
Step 3: Blend the Almonds
Place the peeled almonds in a blender and add 1-2 cups of fresh water. Blend on high speed until the mixture turns smooth and milky. If you prefer a richer milk, use less water; for lighter milk, add more.
Step 4: Strain the Milk
Line a muslin cloth or nut milk bag over a large bowl. Pour the blended almond mixture into it. Gather the cloth, twist it tightly, and squeeze to extract the milk. What drips out is your fresh almond milk.
Step 5: Add Flavour (Optional)
For a gentle flavor, add a few drops of vanilla extract and stir well. This gives the milk a subtle sweetness and aroma.
Step 6: Store or Serve
Transfer the almond milk to a clean glass jar or bottle. Store it in the refrigerator and consume within 3–4 days. Shake well before use, as natural separation is normal.
Variations
Sweetened Almond Milk: Blend in a spoon of jaggery, honey, or dates for a natural sweetener.
Flavored Almond Milk: Add cinnamon, cardamom, or nutmeg for a warm, spiced taste.
Thicker Almond Cream: Reduce the water while blending to make a thicker version, perfect for desserts or creamy sauces.
Cocoa Almond Milk: Blend with a spoon of unsweetened cocoa powder for a chocolate-flavored drink.
Zama Tip
When straining the milk, squeeze the muslin cloth gently but firmly. This helps extract maximum milk while keeping the texture smooth. If you strain too quickly, some fine pulp may pass through, making the milk slightly grainy. Take your time with this step for the best results.
FAQ
1. How long does homemade almond milk last?
It stays fresh in the refrigerator for 3–4 days. Always store it in a clean, airtight container.
2. Can I heat almond milk?
Yes, but do it gently on low heat. Avoid boiling, as it may change the texture.
3. Is almond milk vegan and dairy-free?
Yes. Almond milk is 100% plant-based, lactose-free, and suitable for vegan diets.
4. Can I skip peeling the almonds?
You can, but peeling ensures a smoother and less gritty milk.
5. What can I do with leftover almond pulp?
Use it in curries, sweets, smoothies, or bake it into cookies and bread. It’s high in fiber and should not be wasted.
