Hemp milk is a creamy, nutty, and dairy-free milk alternative made from hemp seeds. It’s packed with healthy fats, protein, and omega-3 fatty acids. The best part? It’s incredibly easy to make at home with just a few ingredients!
Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup raw hemp seeds (shelled)
- 4 cups water
- Optional: 1-2 tsp maple syrup or agave, 1 tsp vanilla extract, a pinch of salt, or a pinch of cinnamon for flavor
Instructions:
Rinse the Hemp Seeds:
- Although hemp seeds are typically clean and ready to use, it’s always a good idea to give them a quick rinse under cold water to remove any dust or residue.
Blend the Hemp Seeds:
- Add the rinsed hemp seeds and 4 cups of water to a high-speed blender. You can also add any optional flavorings at this stage (sweetener, vanilla, salt, cinnamon).
- Blend on high for about 1-2 minutes until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
Strain the Milk (Optional):
- Unlike almond or cashew milk, hemp milk doesn’t need to be strained as the seeds break down into a smooth consistency. However, if you prefer a smoother texture, you can strain it using a nut milk bag, cheesecloth, or a fine mesh strainer.
- Gently squeeze the nut milk bag or cheesecloth to extract as much liquid as possible.
Store the Hemp Milk:
- Pour the hemp milk into a clean jar or bottle. Store it in the fridge for up to 4-5 days. Be sure to shake well before using as it may separate over time.
Optional Uses for Leftover Pulp:
- If you strain the hemp milk, you can use the leftover hemp pulp in smoothies, oatmeal, or as a base for energy balls or baking recipes.
Tips for Perfect Hemp Milk:
- Flavor Variations: Hemp milk has a naturally nutty taste, but you can add flavorings like vanilla, cocoa powder, or cinnamon to adjust the taste according to your preferences.
- Sweetening: Add a small amount of maple syrup, agave, or another sweetener to taste if you prefer a sweeter milk.
- Consistency: For creamier hemp milk, use less water or add a few extra tablespoons of hemp seeds.
Hemp milk is not only easy to make but also packed with nutrients. It’s a great choice for smoothies, coffee, cereal, or as a dairy replacement in recipes. Enjoy the creamy, nutty goodness of homemade hemp milk!