The Amazing World of Plant-Based Milks: Hemp Milk Choices

We’re lucky nowadays to be able to choose from a dozen or so plant-based alternatives, so no one need go without a milk substance in their diet. Often overlooked, one of the alternatives to dairy is HEMP MILK. It’s currently not legal to grow the hemp plant in the United States, so hemp milk producers based here have to rely on obtaining hemp seeds from farmers in Canada or Europe, where the growth of hemp plants for oil or milk is legal. While hemp milk does come from the same plant as marijuana it doesn’t contain THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) and it is an excellent plant-based milk because:

• hemp milk is naturally dairy-, lactose- and soy-free
• hemp seeds are rich in plant-based omega-3 fatty acid ALA, which has been proven to help keep cholesterol and blood pressure in check
• hemp milk also contains omega-6 fatty acids, all 10 essential amino acids, calcium, folic acid, riboflavin, phosphorous, potassium, magnesium, iron, zinc, vitamins A, B12, D and E.
• it is creamier and thicker than most other milk alternatives
• it has a delicious and original flavor

….and no, it doesn’t get you high!

WHAT TO BUY

There are a couple of companies that offer hemp milk, the primary ones being Living Harvest and Pacific Natural Foods.

1. Both Living Harvest and Pacific offer original and unsweetened versions. These are lowest in sugar and are advisable if watching calorie and/or sugar intake.

2. Both companies offer vanilla (sweetened or unsweetened) versions, which are delicious added to coffee; hot chocolate; or tea, and used as a base for milkshakes or smoothies.

3. Chocolate is another alternative, again perfect as a base for milkshakes and smoothies, or drunk alone.

Manitoba Harvest also offer a selection of hemp milk options.

HOW TO MAKE

It is also possible to make hemp milk from scratch, at home, without too much trouble! There are various recipes available online. For a simple one, start with the following:

Ingredients:

• 1 cup shelled hemp seeds
• 5-6 cups filtered water (dependent upon preferred consistency)
• Agave nectar or other natural sweetener (sweeten to taste)

Preparation:

1. Place hemp seeds and filtered water in a blender and blend on full power for 2-3 minutes. Use less water for a creamier consistency of milk.
2. Add natural sweetener and blend again.
3. Place a nut milk bag over a bowl and slowly pour the mixture in, repeatedly squeezing the bag to release all of the milk.
4. Rinse blender and pour the milk back in, blending on low power to create a smooth consistency.
5. Pour into a glass jar and store in the fridge for 3-5 days. Drink!

Image credit: Rubyran/Flickr