Are you tired of the same old chicken marinades? Looking for a healthier alternative to traditional buttermilk marinades?
Look no further than almond milk! Yes, you read that right – almond milk can be used as a base for marinating chicken. Not only does it add a unique flavor, but it also helps to tenderize the meat.
In this article, we’ll explore the benefits of marinating chicken in almond milk and provide some delicious recipes to try out.
So, grab a glass of almond milk and let’s get started!
Can I Marinate Chicken In Almond Milk?
Yes, you absolutely can marinate chicken in almond milk! In fact, almond milk is a great alternative to traditional buttermilk marinades, especially for those who are lactose intolerant or looking for a healthier option.
Almond milk contains healthy fats and is a good source of protein, making it a nutritious choice for marinating chicken. Additionally, the acidity in almond milk helps to tenderize the meat, resulting in a juicy and flavorful dish.
The Benefits Of Marinating Chicken In Almond Milk
There are several benefits to marinating chicken in almond milk. First and foremost, almond milk is a great alternative for those who are lactose intolerant or looking for a dairy-free option. It is also a healthier option compared to traditional cream or yogurt-based marinades.
One of the key benefits of marinating chicken in almond milk is that it helps to tenderize the meat. The acidity in the almond milk breaks down the muscle fibers in the chicken, resulting in a more tender and juicy dish. This is especially important when cooking leaner cuts of chicken, such as chicken breast.
Almond milk also adds a subtle nutty flavor to the chicken, which can complement a variety of different spices and seasonings. It is also a versatile marinade base that can be customized with different herbs, spices, and citrus juices to create unique and flavorful dishes.
Finally, marinating chicken in almond milk is a great way to add some extra nutrition to your meal. Almond milk is a good source of protein and healthy fats, as well as vitamins and minerals such as calcium and vitamin E.
How Almond Milk Tenderizes Chicken
Almond milk contains lactic acid, which is the same acid found in traditional buttermilk marinades. This acid works to break down the muscle fibers in the chicken, resulting in a more tender and flavorful dish. While almond milk may not have the same level of acidity as buttermilk, it still contains enough to effectively tenderize the chicken.
When using almond milk as a marinade, it’s best to let the chicken soak for at least an hour or overnight to allow the flavors to fully infuse. You can also add other seasonings and spices to the almond milk marinade, such as garlic powder, onion powder, dried thyme, paprika, cayenne pepper, and all-spice for added flavor.
Almond Milk Chicken Marinade Recipes To Try
If you’re looking to try out almond milk chicken marinades, here are some delicious recipes to get you started:
1. Almond Milk and Lemon Marinade: In a bowl, whisk together 1 cup of unsweetened almond milk, 1/4 cup of fresh lemon juice, 2 cloves of minced garlic, and salt and pepper to taste. Place your chicken in a resealable plastic bag and pour in the marinade. Seal the bag and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
2. Almond Milk and Herb Marinade: In a blender, combine 1 cup of unsweetened almond milk, 1/4 cup of chopped fresh herbs (such as rosemary, thyme, and sage), 2 cloves of minced garlic, and salt and pepper to taste. Blend until smooth. Place your chicken in a resealable plastic bag and pour in the marinade. Seal the bag and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
3. Almond Milk and Spiced Marinade: In a bowl, whisk together 1 cup of unsweetened almond milk, 1 tablespoon of curry powder, 1 teaspoon of ground cumin, 1 teaspoon of paprika, and salt and pepper to taste. Place your chicken in a resealable plastic bag and pour in the marinade. Seal the bag and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
No matter which recipe you choose, make sure to discard the marinade before cooking your chicken. You can also use the leftover marinade as a sauce by simmering it in a small saucepan until heated through. Enjoy your delicious and tender almond milk marinated chicken!
Tips For Marinating Chicken In Almond Milk
If you’re looking to try marinating chicken in almond milk, here are some tips to help you get the best results:
1. Use unsweetened almond milk: Make sure to use unsweetened almond milk to avoid any unwanted sweetness in your marinade.
2. Add flavorings: Almond milk on its own is quite mild in flavor, so it’s a good idea to add some additional seasonings or herbs to your marinade. Garlic, thyme, and rosemary are all great options.
3. Marinate for at least 2 hours: For best results, marinate your chicken in almond milk for at least 2 hours, or overnight if possible. This will allow the acidity in the almond milk to fully tenderize the meat.
4. Use a sealable bag or container: When marinating chicken in almond milk, it’s important to use a sealable bag or container to prevent any leaks or spills.
5. Don’t reuse marinade: To avoid any risk of contamination, do not reuse the marinade after it has been in contact with raw chicken.
By following these tips, you can create a delicious and healthy dish by marinating your chicken in almond milk. Give it a try and see how it turns out!
Other Uses For Almond Milk In Cooking And Baking
Aside from marinating chicken, almond milk can be used in a variety of cooking and baking recipes. It is a great substitute for dairy milk in recipes for baked goods such as cookies, cakes, muffins, and pancakes. Almond milk can also be used in savory dishes like garlic bread and hummus, adding a unique nutty flavor to the dish.
Almond butter is another great use for almond milk. It can be used as a base for savory sauces and dips, such as chicken satay or baked tofu. Just make sure to use plain unsweetened almond milk to avoid any unwanted sweetness in your savory dishes.
When using almond milk as a substitute for cow’s milk in recipes, it is important to keep in mind that certain adjustments may need to be made. In most cases, a cup-to-cup replacement can be made, but some recipes may require minor adjustments. Almond Breeze’s website offers a wide range of recipes using almond milk, including breakfast, lunch, and dinner options, holiday favorites, and even desserts.
