It seems like every day there is a new plant-based alternative to dairy milk. The latest trend in vegan milks has nothing to do with soy, almonds or cashews: it is oat milk. Oats, which have been a breakfast staple for centuries, yield a creamy milk ideal for blending into cold and hot beverages.
Join Fine Dining Lovers as we discover more about this dairy-free milk alternative.
What is oat milk?
Oat milk is produced from a blend of oats and water. Ideally, the oats are soaked in water overnight, then strained before being blended with more water. The result? An aromatic and creamy substitute for cow's milk that is 100% lactose free, rich in fiber and high in protein.
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Nutrition in Oat Milk
Oats are naturally rich in fiber, iron and calcium. How much of these nutrients are retained in oat milk will depend on whether or not the liquid is strained.
Commercially produced oat milk is fortified with calcium and vitamin D. One cup contains about 120 calories and 5 grams of fat.
Is oat milk better than nut milks?
One advantage of oat milk is that it doesn't contain nuts, which makes it a fantastic alternative for anyone suffering from a nut allergy.
It is also cheaper to produce at home than say almond milk or coconut milk.
Is oat milk gluten free?
Oats are naturally gluten free but are often processed in facilities that also produce nut and wheat products, which may increase the danger of cross contamination, something celiacs should keep in mind.
How To Make Oat Milk at Home
Making oat milk at home is a breeze, especially if you own a high-powered blender. You can either strain the milk or consume it as is, which results in a creamier texture and higher fiber content.
Here are some tips and tricks on how to make oat milk yourself:
Hungry for more?
Discover the ins and outs of banana milk, another dairy-free milk alternative.