Almond Milk

Almond milk is a staple in my household – it’s just so healthy and versatile.

I use it in my smoothies, I cook my porridge with it and I add it to my muesli (granola). Or, I simply drink it straight, like milk, when I’m wanting a quick pick-me-up.

Thanks to New Zealand’s Revive Cafe cook book for this recipe – I loved the addition of dates and vanilla for sweetness. The best part of all about making your own almond milk is that it’s a heck of a lot cheaper than buying it from the supermarket, and I reckon a lot more nutritious too.

Just one note: this recipe calls to blitz the almonds without any pre-soaking. Now that works fine for me, as my Nutri-Bullet makes fast work of them. However, if you need to be kinder to your blender blades, I suggest you pre-soak your almonds overnight by covering them with water. Next day, simply follow the recipe as usual, though you may need a little less added water as the almonds will have soaked up quite a bit already.

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ALMOND MILK

Makes 5 cups

Ingredients:

• 3/4 cup whole raw almonds
• 8 dates soaked in boiling water for 5 minutes
• 4 cups filtered water (include the water the dates have been soaking in)
• 1 pinch salt
• Optional: A few drops pure vanilla essence

Method:

1. Put all ingredients into a blender. A food processor or stick blender may suffice, but will not produce as creamy a milk.
2. Blend for around 2 minutes or until creamy. Use as high a speed as possible – you want creamy milk, not water and small pieces of almonds!
3. You can use straight away or you can store in the fridge for around 5 days. You will have to stir or shake each time you use it as the ingredients will separate. Use as you would normal milk.

Notes:
· If you don’t like the brown flecks you can use blanched almonds (the ones without the skins) or pour through a strainer or sieve prior to serving.
· You can use cashew or brazil nuts to make different flavoured milks.
· If you are in a hurry, just use 2 Tbsp of honey instead of the dates.
· To make almond or nut cream, simply reduce the amount of water used.