Best Almond Milk Alternatives

In the United States, almond milk is the most popular plant milk. This is not surprising given that it has 53% more calcium than dairy cow milk, as well as no cholesterol, lactose, or sugar. So, why are individuals seeking for an almond milk alternative in the first place?

It’s partially human nature for them to want to try anything new, or they may be allergic to almonds. But there’s more to it than that. Almond milk is the least sustainable of the plant milk alternatives. Consider this: making one glass of almond milk requires around 74 L of water, which is much more than making rice, oat, or soy milk.

Almond sustainability has also been made more difficult by environmental reasons such as frequent droughts. Thus, if you’re seeking for an excellent almond milk alternative to use in baking or in any other manner, keep reading!

What Is Almond Milk?

Almond milk is a plant-based milk that is prepared from almonds. It has a creamy texture and a nutty taste, while some commercial goods are flavored with vanilla or chocolate. Almond is a popular option among lactose intolerant people as well as vegetarians who avoid dairy products.

It is high in calcium and low in sugar, cholesterol, and unsaturated fat, however it is high in salt (186 mg per 243 g of milk). It includes vitamins A and D naturally, but due to its low protein level, it is not an acceptable substitute for cow’s milk, breast milk, or other formulas for children under the age of two.

Some products, on the other hand, are fortified with protein and other micronutrients such as vitamins and minerals. It is available in sweetened and unsweetened varieties commercially. It is simple to produce almond milk at home using a blender, almonds, and water.

Moreover, it has a wide range of applications and may be used in lieu of dairy milk in a variety of dishes, including soups, purees, salad dressings, sauces, and baked goods. It may be mixed into milkshakes or smoothies, poured over cereal, or added to tea or coffee. This milk goes well with dairy-free ice cream, French toast, rice, and bread pudding.

Almond Milk Alternatives

Coconut Milk

Coconut milk has a milky-white appearance and an unique sweet coconut flavor. It is made from the ground meat of mature coconuts. Its rich flavor is due to the high fat content, which is primarily saturated.

It has much more fat and calories than almond milk. While it is available in a light coconut milk variant, it has more calories than almonds. Coconut milk, like almond milk, is suitable for persons who are allergic to dairy, lactose intolerant, or vegan.

You may consume it raw, but because to its strong taste, it won’t work as well as almond milk in coffee or tea. It is, nevertheless, a decent substitute for baking and cooking. The light form is favoured in curries and soups, but the thick version is preferred in coconut sweets.

Coconut is a staple in Indian, Polynesian, Thai, and Nepalese cuisines.

Soy Milk

Soy milk is made from a combination of water, oil, and soybeans. Soy and almond milk are both lactose-free, vegan, and low in cholesterol, but they vary in terms of nutrition, health advantages, and environmental impact.

Soy milk has more protein than almond milk but less calcium. Soy is the victor when it comes to carbs, fiber, and vitamins B12, A, and D. It also has far less salt than almond.

Many people dislike the taste of soy milk, but there are flavored variants available, such as chocolate or vanilla, to help you transition from dairy milk to soy milk.

Since almond and soy are low in fat, they may be used to lighten any cake recipe or dessert. The methods for using them in cooking are pretty similar, so it all depends on the taste you want.

Rice Milk

Rice milk is often manufactured from brown rice and takes less water to produce than almond milk. It is the least allergic of the plant milk varieties. It has a tiny protein content and just 20 mg of calcium per serving, while certain brands are calcium fortified.

It also has no lactose or cholesterol. Commercial rice milk may be sweetened with sugar or other artificial sweeteners and flavored with vanilla extract. Nevertheless, due of its high starch content, rice milk, even unsweetened, should not be considered a viable alternative for diabetics.

When using rice milk to bake muffins, the flavor will be sweeter than when using almond milk, therefore lower the quantity of sugar by a couple of teaspoons. Because of the low fat level, the texture of your muffins will be little dry, particularly after one day. Add additional juicy ingredients, such as berries, or underbake the cakes to remedy this.

Oat Milk

Whole oat grains are used to make oat milk. As compared to almond milk, its manufacture is believed to need eight times less water and has a minimal environmental effect.

It has a creamy mouthfeel that almond does not have because to its greater calorie and carb content. When compared to other plant-based milk variants, it is the only one, along with hemp milk, that has a texture similar to cow’s milk.

It’s also devoid of chemical thickeners and froths, making it a perfect non-dairy alternative to coffee. It may also be used as an almond milk substitute in baking.

Keep an eye on serving sizes if you are rigorously tracking your calorie or carb consumption (as in the case of keto).

Hemp Milk

Hemp or hemp seed milk is a popular alternative to animal milk since it is low in calories and carbs. This makes it an ideal alternative for people looking to reduce their carbohydrate consumption.

Hemp milk is prepared from soaked hemp seeds and is suitable for persons with soy sensitivity or milk allergies. It is also suitable for vegans and vegetarians due to its high protein content, vital fatty acids, and minerals.

It tastes somewhat sweet and nutty. Its texture is remarkably close to cow’s milk, which is why it is thought to be better for latte art than soy. Sweetened or flavored commercial items are available.

Flaxseed Milk

Flaxseeds are small, brownish seeds that are abundant in omega-3 fatty acids, which are crucial nutrients for heart health, diabetes, and other conditions. Flax milk is high in vitamins A, B12, and D and low in lactose, gluten, and cholesterol. It also has a high fiber content but a low protein content.

It has a thin texture and a somewhat sweet taste. It has a reduced calorie and sugar content, making it a suitable option for people limiting their calorie intake.

Flavored selections are significantly sweetened, so check the label for the quantity of sugar.

Cashew Milk

Cashew milk is very nutritious, including minerals, vitamins, and beneficial fatty acids. It is naturally lactose-free and beneficial for anybody wishing to replace almond milk with a similar-tasting product.

It is a little creamier and richer than almond. It has a mild and sweet nutty taste. This is an excellent substitute for hot chocolate, coffee, or tea.

It’s also highly adaptable. Most recipes call for it, including sauces, baked goods, handmade ice cream, smoothies, and cereals. Creating your own cashew milk is a breeze. Also, it may have more nutrients than commercial goods.

Looking For More Ideas?

Here are some additional alternatives:

• Spelt milk and maize milk are cereal-based milks.
• Legume-based milks include cowpea milk and lupin milk.
• Nut milks include walnut milk, pistachio milk, and hazelnut milk.
• Sesame milk and sunflower milk are seed-based milks.