I have a confession to make – I used to be one of those people who hated drinking plain milk. The taste, the texture, everything about it just turned me off. But I wanted to incorporate more plant-based options into my diet for health reasons. That’s when I discovered cashew milk. I was hooked.
I love that cashew milk is packed with nutrients like healthy fats, protein, magnesium and zinc. And it’s naturally sweet, so you don’t need to add a lot of sugar. It’s been a game changer for my morning coffee, smoothies, even just drinking it straight. I find it to be far superior to store-bought non-dairy milks, which often have off-putting aftertastes.
The best part is that it’s incredibly easy to make at home. No fancy equipment required!All you need is raw cashews, water, a blender and 5 spare minutes. That’s it! No straining, no mess. I’m all about recipes that skip unnecessary steps.
Cashew Milk Recipe
Cashew Milk
Equipment
Ingredients
- 1 tsp natural vanilla extract
- 3 to 6 pitted dates, 2 to 3 tablespoons pure maple syrup, or other sweetener
- 1 tbsp. lecithin or coconut butter (optional)
Instructions
- To soak the cashews, place the nuts in a glass or ceramic bowl orlarge glass jar, and cover with pure water.
- Add 1 teaspoon Celtic sea salt and splash of fresh lemon juice orapple cider vinegar, cover the container with a breathable kitchentowel, and allow to soak at room temperature for 2 hours.
- Drain, and discard the soaking liquid
- Rinse the cashews several times to remove the anti-nutrients.
- Throw the rinsed cashews, water, and salt in your blender, andblast on high for about 60 seconds, until smooth.
- Store the milk in a sealed container in the fridge.
- Cashew milk (made with soaked cashews) will keep for 2 to 3days in a very cold fridge.
- Un-soaked cashew milk will keep for about 5 days.
Video
Notes
Nutrition
© Food And Meal
This website provides approximate nutrition information for convenience and as a courtesy only. Nutrition data is gathered primarily from the Spoonacular Database, whenever available, or otherwise other online calculators.
Cashew Milk Using a Pressure Cooker: The Quick Soak Method
Submerge cashews in the pressure cooker with 3 cups of water. Seal and cook on high pressure for 15 minutes. Release steam, drain, and rinse cashews. Blend with 4 cups of fresh water until smooth. Optionally strain for an ultra-smooth texture. Store in the fridge; a quick shake restores creaminess.
Cashew Milk Cooking Tips
- Cashew milk is a versatile ingredient that can elevate both sweet and savory dishes. I was delighted to discover the many creative ways it can be used in cooking and baking. Its creamy texture and subtle nutty flavor lend themselves beautifully to enhancing the richness of soups, curries, smoothies and more.When using cashew milk in recipes, there are some helpful tips to follow. It’s best to avoid boiling or overheating it, as high temperatures can cause curdling. Mixing in a little cornstarch or arrowroot powder helps stabilize the milk. I also learned that cashew milk works wonderfully as a base for dairy-free ice creams, cheeses and yogurts. The possibilities are endless!
While experimenting with new ingredients can seem daunting, a dash of creativity and patience helps everything come together beautifully. Approach cashew milk with an open mind, taste as you go, and soon you’ll be whipping up all sorts of delicious concoctions.
Serving Suggestions for Cashew Milk
Start your day with the comforting warmth of Soy Sauce Eggs, where the nutty notes of the cashew milk perfectly complement the rich flavors. For a leisurely brunch, indulge in a Spinach Quiche paired with this subtly nutty elixir, creating a harmonious dance of textures and tastes.
As the day unfolds, let the versatility of cashew milk shine through in unexpected places. Picture a serene evening, savoring the sweetness of a warm Cherry Cobbler, the creamy cashew milk enhancing each delightful bite. Elevate your pasta game with a Pasta Primavera bathed in the silky richness of this homemade creation, making every forkful a luxurious experience.
For a balanced dinner, envision the simplicity of Grilled Halibut finding a perfect companion in a glass of cashew milk, adding a touch of refreshment to each bite. Cap off your day with a slice of, the creamy cashew milk acting as a soothing counterpart to the decadence of this sweet treat.
Cashew Milk FAQs
- Is cashew milk good for you? Yes, cashew milk is a nutritious alternative. It’s a good source of healthy fats, vitamins, and minerals. However, nutritional content can vary among brands and homemade versions.
- Is cashew milk better than almond milk? Both have distinct flavors and nutritional profiles. Cashew milk tends to be creamier, while almond milk may have fewer calories. The choice depends on personal preference and dietary needs.
- Which is healthier, oat milk or cashew milk? Oat milk is often praised for its fiber content, while cashew milk provides healthy fats. The healthier option depends on individual nutritional goals and dietary preferences.
- Why is cashew milk so low in calories? Cashew milk is lower in calories compared to cow’s milk due to its lower fat content. Homemade versions may have fewer additives, contributing to its overall lower calorie count.
- How long does homemade cashew milk last? Typically, homemade cashew milk can last in the refrigerator for about 3-4 days. Always give it a good sniff and a stir before using. If it smells off or has visible mold, it’s time to bid adieu.
- Why does my cashew milk separate? Natural separation is common in homemade nut milks since they lack the commercial stabilizers. Just give it a shake or a stir, and it’ll be back to its creamy self.
- Can I use roasted cashews for the milk? While you can, I’d recommend raw cashews for a neutral flavor. Roasted cashews will give a deeper, toasted flavor which might not be ideal for all recipes.
- Is cashew milk good for lactose-intolerant folks? Absolutely! Cashew milk is naturally lactose-free, making it a great option for those avoiding dairy.
- Any ideas for the leftover cashew pulp? Oh, the wonders of cashew pulp! Use it in smoothies, oatmeal, or even as a base for creamy sauces. Zero waste and a hundred percent taste!
Conclusion
Cashew milk offers many health benefits that make it a nutritious plant-based milk alternative. It contains healthy fats that promote heart health, is free of dairy and common allergens, provides antioxidants for eye health, and may facilitate weight loss. The market for plant-based milks like cashew milk is growing due to consumer demand for sustainable and healthy alternatives to dairy.
When compared to almond milk, cashew milk tends to have fewer calories and carbohydrates, while providing comparable amounts of protein and healthy fats. It can be used in smoothies, coffee drinks, baking, and cooking just like dairy milk.
For more recipes and meal ideas with cashew milk, check out foodandmeal.com. Their YouTube channel offers a simple homemade cashew milk recipe to try yourself. Cashew milk is creamy, nutritious, and sustainable – give it a try today!
