Almond milk recipe

"If you really want something you can figure out how to make it happen." ~ Cher

 

Nothing gets me more excited than to figure out how to make a recipe on my own, especially when I'm able to save a few dollars.  Almond milk is so versatile and one of my favorite things to use in my cereal and protein shakes. I've even used it once when a recipe called for buttermilk and added a tbsp of vinegar to a cup of almond milk.

 

Almond milk is low in calories, contains no cholesterol or saturated fats,  and is high in several vitamins and minerals including calcium, magnesium,  iron, & fiber. For those who are lactose intolerant almond milk may be a great choice. A downside of almond milk is that it has less protein than cow's milk.  It can also cause an allergic reaction to those with nut allergies.

I usually buy Silk 30 Calorie Almond Milk at Publix whether or not it is on sale because I use it so often.  One half gallon usually cost around $4. When I make my own I obtain 4 cups for every 1 cup of organic raw almonds.  If you shop in bulk you could probably get a really good deal when making your own almond milk.
 

To be honest there is not a large amount of money that could be saved by making your own almond milk. Reason being is that the price of almonds comes in about $4-5 per pound. It takes 2 cups of almonds to make about 1/2 a gallon of milk and I'm sure the shelf life is significantly shorter than store bought almond milk. Sometimes Publix will have a buy one get one deal on their almond milk, so essentially you would be paying $4 for two.
 

The benefit to making my own almond milk is that I know exactly what is in it and can make it exactly how I want it. Some recipes call for dates to give a little more sweetness to the taste. Not to mention that it is fun and makes me feel liberated once I make a batch!

Homemade Organic Almond Milk
 

You will need a blender of some sort and a fine mesh strainer. I recommend using the Vitamix.
 

3 cups of water
1 cup of organic raw almonds
1 pinch of salt
Sweetner

Add all ingredients to the blender and blend for about 1 minute or until the desired consistency is obtained. For commercial grade almond milk, run the mixture through the strainer.  Enjoy!