Welcome to The Pantry Files, where we explore the wholesome foods that make everyday eating a little more delicious. This month, we’re looking at nut milk, including its history, the benefits of different nuts and how to make your own at home.
From creamy cashew milk to classic almond milk, homemade nut milk is a simple way to experiment with flavours and enjoy the versatility of nuts in your everyday routine.
What is Nut Milk?
Nut milk is a plant-based drink made by blending nuts with water. It's a popular dairy-free alternative that can be enjoyed in smoothies, coffee, breakfast bowls, baking and more.
While nut milk has become increasingly popular in recent years, it has a long history. Almond milk was used in medieval European cooking and Middle Eastern culinary traditions, serving as a versatile ingredient and an alternative to dairy milk during religious fasting periods.
Today, varieties such as almond, cashew and macadamia milk offer plenty of ways to get creative in the kitchen.
What Are the Benefits of Nut Milk?
Nut milk is a versatile option for people looking for dairy-free alternatives or wanting more variety in their cooking.
Some reasons to enjoy nut milk include:
- Dairy-free versatility: A useful alternative for those avoiding dairy, provided the nuts used are suitable for them
- Simple ingredients: Homemade nut milk lets you control what goes into your drink, including optional sweeteners and flavourings
- Versatile uses: Enjoy it in smoothies, coffee, porridge, baking and desserts
Nuts themselves contain nutrients such as unsaturated fats, protein, fibre, vitamins and minerals. However, the nutritional content of nut milk varies depending on the nuts used and whether the pulp is strained out. Fortified commercial varieties may also provide added calcium and vitamins.
Which Nuts Are Best for Nut Milk?
There's no single best nut for everyone! Each variety offers a different flavour and texture.
- Almonds: Mild, nutty and subtly sweet, making almond milk ideal for everyday use in smoothies, coffee and breakfast bowls
- Cashews: Naturally creamy, making them great for smoothies, sauces and soups
- Macadamias: Rich and buttery, perfect for coffee and desserts
- Hazelnuts: Distinctively nutty and delicious paired with cacao or chocolate
- Walnuts: Earthy and full-flavoured, ideal for smoothies and porridge.
Our tip? Start with almonds or cashews, then experiment with different varieties to find your favourite.
How to Make Nut Milk at Home
Making homemade nut milk is easier than you might think. All you need is a blender, your favourite nuts and a little preparation.
Ingredients
- 1 cup raw almonds or cashews
- 3–4 cups water
- 1–2 dates, optional
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract, optional
Makes: Approximately 750 ml–1 litre of nut milk, depending on the water ratio and straining method.
Method
- Soak: Cover the nuts with water and soak in the fridge overnight. Cashews generally need only 2–4 hours.
- Rinse: Drain and rinse the nuts, discarding the soaking water.
- Blend: Add the nuts and fresh water to a blender. Blend for 1–2 minutes until smooth. Add dates or vanilla if desired.
- Strain: Pour through a nut milk bag or fine muslin cloth for a smoother consistency. Cashew milk can often be enjoyed without straining.
- Store: Transfer to a clean, airtight container and refrigerate promptly.
Tip: For a creamier result, use less water. Almond milk generally benefits from straining for a smoother texture, while cashew milk can often be blended until smooth without straining.
How Long Does Homemade Nut Milk Last?
Store homemade nut milk in a clean, airtight container in the fridge at 5°C or colder and aim to use it within 3–4 days. Shake well before serving, as natural separation is normal.
Don't discard the leftover nut pulp! Add it to smoothies, porridge, baking or homemade bliss balls to help reduce food waste.
Easy Ways to Enjoy Nut Milk
Once you've made your own, there are plenty of ways to enjoy it:
- Pour almond milk over muesli or granola
- Blend cashew milk into smoothies
- Add macadamia milk to coffee or hot chocolate
- Use hazelnut milk in chocolate-inspired desserts
- Stir your favourite nut milk through porridge
You can even experiment with combinations, such as almond and cashew or hazelnut and cacao, to create your own favourite blends.
Can You Use Activated Nuts to Make Nut Milk?
Absolutely! Activated nuts can also be used to experiment with homemade nut milk. Try blending activated almonds or cashews with fresh filtered water, adjusting the ratio to achieve your preferred consistency.
Cashews are a great choice for a naturally creamy result, while almonds offer a mild, nutty flavour. You can also experiment with macadamias for a richer taste.
Discover the Versatility of Nuts with 2die4 Live Foods
From homemade nut milk to crunchy snacks and breakfast favourites, there are plenty of ways to enjoy nuts beyond snacking.
At 2die4 Live Foods, we love finding new ways to enjoy our favourite nuts. Explore our range of activated nuts and get inspired to bring a little nuttier goodness into your everyday routine.
Ready to explore?
