I started making my own almond milk because I got frustrated when I could not find one that did NOT contain carrageenan. Most of the time when I tell people I make my own almond milk, they look at me like I am in the backyard milking almonds. 😊 Sometimes they are even fascinated and think that I am magical and that it takes a long time to do. Or some even think that almond milk is traditional milk from a cow with an almond flavor (it's not.). While I would love for people to continue thinking I am magical, I will burst the bubble and tell you, it is SUPER SIMPLE and takes a mere 10 minutes from start to finish (excluding soaking), including clean up! Once you taste this rich, creamy deliciousness I doubt you will ever drink boxed almond milk again.
Almond Milk
Ingredients:
1 cup raw almonds (not roasted or salted)
1/4 cup raw macadamia nuts (optional but highly recommended)
1/4 cup raw hazelnuts (optional but highly recommended)
3 1/2 cups filtered water
5 dates, pitted (optional)
1/4 tsp vanilla extract (optional)
1/2 tsp cinnamon (optional)
Directions:
1. Place almonds, macadamia nuts (if utilizing) and hazelnuts (if utilizing) in a bowl. Add filtered water until nuts are completely submerged and have about 2 inches of water on top. Soak overnight if possible, but at least for an hour. The longer you soak the nuts, the more flavorful your milk will be.
2. Drain and rinse the nuts and place in high speed blender such as a Vitamix. Add 3 1/2 cups filtered water, dates, vanilla and cinnamon. Blend on high for 1 minute.
3. Place nut milk bag over large bowl and slowly pour the milk in. Gently squeeze bag and try to get as much of the liquid through as you can. You want the pulp left in the bag to be as dry as possible that way you aren't wasting precious milk.
4. Pour the milk into a mason jar or cute milk bottle (or storage container of your choice) and refrigerate.
5. Enjoy straight up, in smoothies, over granola or however your little heart desires.
Note: I was able to find Whole Foods 365 Organic Unsweetened Almond Milk without carrageenan. It is definitely not as tasty as homemade but I will use this in smoothies when I am running low on homemade Almond Milk.
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