Throughout my pregnancy, I went through gallons of Silk unsweetened coconut milk to try to alleviate my heartburn. Unfortunately, it didn't provide the relief I was hoping for, but the coconut milk craving stuck! Although, I now prefer the taste of my homemade coconut milk that only takes a few minutes to make.
Making your own dairy-free milk is extremely easy if you have a high-quality blender. It is a "pantry staple" of mine, especially during this COVID19 pandemic. Save yourself a trip to the store, and make your own coconut, almond, oat, etc., milk of your choice. You'll also avoid all of the unnecessary additives in store-bought milk and save money in the long run!
Ingredients:
-I cup fine unsweetened shredded coconut flakes
-2 cups water (more for thinner milk, less for thicker milk)
-Sea salt (optional, to taste)
-Cinnamon (optional, to taste)
-You will also need a nut milk bag, mini strainer, or another straining device
Directions:
1. Heat the water to boiling in a kettle or saucepan.
2. Add the coconut flakes and boiling water to your high powered blender. Add salt and cinnamon if you choose. (If I am craving thinner coconut milk, I will use 3 cups of water to 1 cup of coconut flakes. For curries and soups, I avoid the cinnamon and use 1 cup of flakes to 1.5 cups of water for thicker and creamier milk. Listen to your taste buds!)
3. Blend on high for 5 minutes, taking breaks for the motor occasionally if needed.
4. Allow the mixture to cool off for 10-15 minutes until you can safely squeeze out the contents.
5. Pour the mixture into the nut milk bag or strainer over a bowl or mason jar. Make sure to hold on tight to the sides of the nut milk bag so the contents do not spill out.
6. If using a nut milk bag, squeeze all of the liquid into the bowl or mason jar. If using a mini strainer, press down on the mixture with a large spoon to squeeze all of the liquid out. (See picture below)
7. There you have it! Delicious coconut milk ready to drink, use in soups/curries, or add to your morning beverage. Enjoy!
** If you do not have a nut milk bag, I definitely recommend one. It will make your life so much easier if you plan on continually making your own dairy-free milk. However, a mini strainer will also work. Here is an example of step 6 with a mini strainer:
