Frequently Asked Questions About Almond Milk

Thinking of making the switch to almond milk? Still have a few qualms about how healthy the product is or how easily you will be able to incorporate it into your favourite recipes? Look no further — this list of frequently asked questions will provide you with all the information you need to know to make an informed decision for your health. 

What is almond milk?

Almond milk is a popular plant based alternative to regular cow’s milk. Unsurprisingly, it is made from almonds.

While drinking almond milk may seem like a relatively new craze, the beverage has actually been around for hundreds of years. It was a popular option in mediaeval times, when religion prevented people from consuming animal products during times of fasting.

Almond milk is made by soaking almonds in water before grinding the mixture into a fine paste. This paste is filtered and the ‘milk’ is extracted. Additional vitamins, minerals, and flavouring may be added, depending on the brand of almond milk you purchase.

Is almond milk healthy?

Almond milk is a relatively healthy choice. It is quite low in calories and fat, containing a number of important nutrients.

One cup of almond milk will provide you with around a quarter of your daily calcium needs. The drink is also an excellent source of vitamin D and vitamin E. The latter is a fat-soluble antioxidant that can help protect your body against the damage caused by free radicals. Almond milk has therefore been linked with decreased inflammation and improved eye and skin health.

How does almond milk compare to other non-dairy alternatives?

These days there are many plant-based alternatives out there. How does almond milk rate by comparison?

Well, it is typically lower in calories and fat — this is the case even when compared to regular cow’s milk. Almond milk is naturally high in vitamin E and certain varieties will be fortified to be a good source of vitamin A, vitamin D, and calcium.

Unfortunately, almond milk does not contain a lot of protein. If you’re getting your protein from elsewhere — like meat, eggs, or traditional dairy products — this isn’t a problem. However, vegetarians and vegans should not lean on the drink as a protein source.

Is there anything I need to know about cooking with almond milk?

If you’re planning to use almond milk as a substitute for cow’s milk in your favourite recipes, there are a few key points to be aware of.

Generally speaking, you can substitute almond milk for cow’s milk on a 1:1 basis. If the recipe calls for one cup of cow’s milk, you only need one cup of almond milk.

Be aware that almond milk naturally has quite a rich, nutty flavour. If you’re cooking a banana and walnut cake, for example, this shouldn’t be a problem. However, if you’re creating something with a slightly lighter flavour profile, like lemon cupcakes, you may need to make adjustments to the recipe.

Burnt almond milk doesn’t taste particularly good so be careful when boiling it. Consider using the double-boiler method (sitting your almond milk in a heatproof bowl within a saucepan of boiling water) to prevent this from occurring.

Can I drink almond milk with my coffee?

Yes! Almond milk tastes fantastic in your morning coffee. The naturally rich, nutty flavour is an excellent complement to your favourite beans.

If you’re making your coffee at home, it may take a little practice to get the hang of frothing almond milk. You should also avoid pouring almond milk straight from the fridge into your steaming cup as the sudden temperature change may cause curdling.

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