The Fantastic World of Plant-Based Milks: Flax Milk Choices + DIY

The most recent non-dairy milk alternative to hit the stores is FLAX MILK, which is simply cold-pressed flax oil mixed with filtered water. Flaxseed milk presents numerous health benefits:

• unlike cow’s milk, flax milk contains no cholesterol or lactose, making it healthier for your heart
• flax milk also contains omega-3 fatty acids from the cold-pressed flax oil, that has been shown to help prevent cancer, diabetes, heart disease and strokes
• it is naturally lactose free, as well as being completely void of cholesterol
• flax milks are fortified with minerals and vitamins, including vitamins A, B12 and D, as well as calcium, which equals the nutritional value of other milk alternatives
• all varieties are low in calories, while the original and vanilla varieties contain some sugars (from evaporated cane juice) but considerably less than other non-dairy milk alternatives
• flax milk contains no saturated or trans fat
• although it doesn’t offer the same health benefits, flax milk is another excellent alternative for those who are allergic to soy
• in addition to being soy-free, flax milk is free from the top eight allergens (from ingredients) including gluten
• it is creamier than a lot of other milk alternatives

The only downside to flax milk is that it contains no protein. However, there are numerous excellent plant-based sources of protein such as beans, lentils, nuts, seeds, tofu, and wholegrains which can be consumed as part of a balanced diet.

WHAT TO BUY

At present there are only two main brands of flax milk on the market: FlaxUSA Flaxmilk and Good Karma Flaxmilk, which offer almost identical ingredients and nutritional profiles. Each of these can be drunk alone, added to cereal, milkshakes or smoothies, and used in baking or cooking.

Unsweetened Flaxmilk – the unsweetened version of both brands is perfect for baking and/or as a base to milkshakes and smoothies. It is versatile because it can also be added to savoury and sweet cooking recipes, due to its neutral flavour.

Original Flaxmilk – the original version is great in hot cocoa, coffee and tea. It offers a slightly sweet flavour but remains neutral, so still versatile enough to be added to both savoury and sweet baking or cooking recipes.

Vanilla Flaxmilk – the vanilla option is a lot sweeter and has a rich, smooth consistency. It is perfect added to hot cocoa, coffee, and tea, as well as drunk alone.

WANT TO MAKE FLAX MILK YOURSELF? HERE’S HOW YOU CAN DO IT…

Ingredients:

• 3 cups filtered water
• ½ cup whole flax seeds
• ½ – 1 cup additional water (to add after straining)
• 2-4 pitted Medjool dates (sweeten to taste)
• 1 whole vanilla bean or 2 tsp vanilla essence (to taste)

Preparation:

1. Place flaxseeds into the blender, along with the initial three cups of filtered water
2. Blend on full power for 1 minute.
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 while adding additional water and vanilla bean/extract to achieve desired consistency
5. Sweeten to taste
6. Pour into a glass jar and store in the fridge for 3-5 days. Drink!

As an alternative to vanilla, almond extract, cinnamon, and/or nutmeg could be added. To create chocolate milk add some cocoa powder, or to make strawberry milk add fresh strawberries.

Image Source: HealthfulPursuit.com