Oat milk has been gaining popularity in the United States as a dairy-free and plant-based alternative to traditional milk. But did you know that in Mexico, there is a similar drink called “agua de avena” that has been enjoyed for generations?
While the two may have slight differences in preparation and usage, they both offer a refreshing and delicious way to enjoy the benefits of oats. And now, with Starbucks introducing oat milk as a new option for their customers in Mexico, it’s clear that the demand for this creamy and nutritious beverage is only growing.
So, can you get oat milk in Mexico? Let’s explore the options and find out.
Can You Get Oat Milk In Mexico?
Yes, you can get oat milk in Mexico! In fact, Starbucks has recently introduced oat milk as a new option for their customers across the country. This creamy and delicious plant-based alternative is now available alongside other non-dairy milk options like soy, coconut, and almond milk.
But oat milk isn’t entirely new to Mexico. The traditional drink “agua de avena” has been enjoyed for generations and is a popular way to stay refreshed on hot days. While there may be slight variations in the recipe, agua de avena typically includes oats, cinnamon, dates, salt, and vanilla extract blended together and strained through a cheesecloth or nut bag.
So whether you’re looking for a refreshing agua fresca or a creamy latte, there are now more options than ever before for enjoying the benefits of oats in Mexico. And with Starbucks leading the way in expanding their plant-based menu options, it’s clear that the demand for oat milk is only going to continue to grow.
What Is Agua De Avena?
Agua de avena is a traditional Mexican drink made from oats, cinnamon, dates, salt, and vanilla extract. It is a refreshing and nutritious agua fresca that is perfect for hot summer days. Unlike commercial brands, agua de avena is made with no refined sugar, additives, or preservatives, making it a healthier option for bottled beverages.
The preparation of agua de avena is relatively simple. First, the ingredients are blended together in a blender until the dates and cinnamon are completely dissolved. Then, the oats are added and blended for an additional 30 seconds. It is important to avoid overblending the oats as this can cause the mixture to become slimy. Finally, the mixture is poured through a cheesecloth, nut bag, or linen towel and carefully pressed until no liquid is left.
Agua de avena has a hearty and slightly sweet taste that can be adjusted by controlling how much sugar or what type of sweetener is added. It is also vegan, gluten-free, and nut-free, making it suitable for people with dietary restrictions.
While oat milk is becoming more popular in the American market, agua de avena has been enjoyed in Mexico for generations. It is similar to horchata or any other agua fresca and is served over ice as a refreshing drink. The not-so-obvious difference between agua de avena and store-bought oat milk is that it does not contain any preservatives or unnecessary ingredients.
Differences Between Oat Milk And Agua De Avena
While both oat milk and agua de avena are made from oats, there are some key differences between the two. Oat milk is a milk substitute that is typically made by blending oats with water and other additives like sugar, salt, and oils. It has a creamy texture and can be used in place of dairy milk in recipes or as a standalone beverage.
On the other hand, agua de avena is a refreshing drink that is more similar to horchata or other agua frescas. It is made by blending oats with water, cinnamon, dates, salt, and vanilla extract, and then straining the mixture to remove any solids. Agua de avena is typically served over ice and is a popular way to stay cool on hot days in Mexico.
Another difference between the two is that oat milk is often fortified with vitamins and minerals like calcium and vitamin D to make up for the nutrients that are naturally found in dairy milk. Agua de avena, on the other hand, is typically not fortified with additional nutrients.
Finally, while oat milk can be found in many grocery stores and coffee shops in the United States and other countries, agua de avena is still primarily a homemade drink in Mexico. While it can sometimes be found at street vendors or small cafes, it is not as widely available as oat milk.
The Benefits Of Oat Milk And Agua De Avena
Oat milk and agua de avena both offer a range of health benefits that make them a great alternative to traditional dairy milk. For starters, they are both vegan, gluten-free, and nut-free, making them suitable for people with dietary restrictions or allergies.
One of the biggest advantages of oat milk and agua de avena is that they are low in fat and calories compared to cow’s milk. While oat milk contains roughly the same amount of calories as cow’s milk, it has significantly less fat and cholesterol. This makes it a great option for people who are trying to lose weight or maintain a healthy diet.
In addition to being low in fat and calories, oat milk and agua de avena are also high in fiber, which can help regulate digestion and promote feelings of fullness. This can be especially beneficial for people who struggle with constipation or overeating.
Both oat milk and agua de avena also contain a variety of vitamins and minerals that are essential for good health. Oats are particularly rich in B vitamins, which are important for energy production and brain function. They also contain iron, calcium, and magnesium, which are all important for maintaining strong bones and muscles.
Finally, oat milk and agua de avena are both versatile ingredients that can be used in a variety of recipes. Whether you’re looking to make a creamy latte or a refreshing smoothie, these plant-based alternatives offer endless possibilities for delicious and nutritious meals and snacks.
Where To Find Oat Milk In Mexico
If you’re looking to purchase oat milk in Mexico, there are a few options available. One of the easiest ways to get your hands on this popular plant-based milk is by visiting your local Starbucks. As of August 23, 2021, Starbucks stores across Mexico now offer oat milk alongside their other non-dairy milk options. This means you can enjoy a delicious latte or cocoa macchiato made with oat milk at most Starbucks locations nationwide.
If you prefer to make your own oat milk at home, it’s easy to do so with just a few simple ingredients. All you need are oats, cinnamon sticks, dates, a pinch of salt, and vanilla extract. Blend the ingredients together with water and strain through a cheesecloth or nut bag to remove any solids. This will give you a creamy and nutritious oat milk that’s free of preservatives and unnecessary ingredients.
In addition to Starbucks and homemade options, there are also online stores like Ubuy that offer a wide range of oat milk products from international brands like Oatly. With over 100 million products and brands available, Ubuy is a one-stop-shop for all your shopping needs in Mexico City, Ecatepec, Iztapalapa, Guadalajara, Puebla, Ciudad Juarez, Tijuana, Leon, and beyond.
Brands Of Oat Milk Available In Mexico
If you’re looking for oat milk in Mexico, there are several brands available in supermarkets and health food stores. One of the most popular brands is Oatly, which offers a range of plant-based dairy alternatives. Their products are available in major cities like Mexico City, Ecatepec, Iztapalapa, Guadalajara, Puebla, Ciudad Juarez, Tijuana, and Leon. Some of their top-selling products include healthy organic oat cream, foam-able barista oat drink, milk oat full fat, oat drink vanilla, chocolate oat milk bundle, and enriched oat milk.
Another brand that offers oat milk in Mexico is Pacific Foods. Their organic oat milk is made with simple ingredients like whole grain oats and sea salt. It is a good source of calcium and vitamin D and is free from dairy, soy, and gluten.
Califia Farms is another brand that offers a range of oat milk products in Mexico. Their products are made with non-GMO oats and are free from dairy, soy, and gluten. They offer a variety of flavors like vanilla, chocolate, and unsweetened.
In addition to these brands, there are also local brands that offer oat milk in Mexico. For example, Nutrioli offers an oat milk product called “Leche de Avena” that is made with natural ingredients and is free from preservatives.
How To Make Your Own Oat Milk Or Agua De Avena
Making your own oat milk or agua de avena is actually quite simple and can be done with just a few basic ingredients. Here are a few different methods to try:
Method 1: Blender and Strainer
Ingredients:
– 1 cup rolled oats
– 4 cups water
– 1 cinnamon stick
– 2-3 pitted dates (optional)
– Pinch of salt (optional)
Instructions:
1. Add the oats, water, cinnamon stick, dates, and salt (if using) to a blender.
2. Blend on high for about 30 seconds to 1 minute, or until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
3. Pour the mixture through a fine-mesh strainer or cheesecloth into a large bowl or pitcher.
4. Use a spoon to press down on the oat pulp to extract as much liquid as possible.
5. Discard the pulp or save it for another use.
6. Chill the oat milk in the refrigerator for at least an hour before serving.
Method 2: Overnight Soak
Ingredients:
– 1 cup rolled oats
– 4 cups water
– Pinch of salt (optional)
Instructions:
1. Add the oats, water, and salt (if using) to a large bowl or pitcher.
2. Cover and let soak in the refrigerator overnight, or for at least 6 hours.
3. Strain the mixture through a fine-mesh strainer or cheesecloth into another bowl or pitcher.
4. Use a spoon to press down on the oat pulp to extract as much liquid as possible.
5. Discard the pulp or save it for another use.
6. Chill the oat milk in the refrigerator for at least an hour before serving.
Method 3: Agua de Avena
Ingredients:
– 1 cup rolled oats
– 4 cups water
– 2-3 pitted dates
– 1 cinnamon stick
– Pinch of salt
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Add the oats, water, dates, cinnamon stick, salt, and vanilla extract to a blender.
2. Blend on high for about 30 seconds to 1 minute, or until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
3. Pour the mixture through a fine-mesh strainer or cheesecloth into a large bowl or pitcher.
4. Use a spoon to press down on the oat pulp to extract as much liquid as possible.
5. Discard the pulp or save it for another use.
6. Chill the agua de avena in the refrigerator for at least an hour before serving.
With these simple recipes, you can easily make your own oat milk or agua de avena at home and enjoy all of its delicious and nutritious benefits!
