Are you a fan of oat milk but tired of constantly buying it from the store?
Did you know that you can actually make your own oat milk at home using just rolled oats and water?
But what if you don’t have any rolled oats on hand? Can you still make oat milk?
The answer is yes – with oat flour!
In this article, we’ll explore the process of making oat milk from oat flour and share some tips and tricks to help you achieve the perfect creamy consistency.
So grab your blender and let’s get started!
Can You Make Oat Milk From Oat Flour?
As mentioned earlier, oat milk is typically made by blending rolled oats with water and then straining the mixture to remove any pulp or chunks. However, if you don’t have any rolled oats on hand, you can still make oat milk using oat flour.
To make oat milk from oat flour, simply add 1 cup of oat flour to 4 cups of water in a high-speed blender. Blend on high for 30-45 seconds until the mixture is smooth and creamy. Then, strain the mixture through a clean t-shirt or towel for best results.
It’s important to note that using oat flour may result in a slightly thinner consistency compared to using rolled oats. However, you can adjust the amount of water you use to achieve your desired consistency.
What Is Oat Flour?
Oat flour, as the name suggests, is flour made from oats. It is typically made by grinding rolled oats in a blender or electric coffee/spice grinder until they form a fine powder. Oat flour is a popular alternative to wheat flour and is often used in gluten-free baking recipes.
One of the benefits of using oat flour is that it is high in fiber and protein, making it a nutritious choice for baking. Additionally, oat flour has a slightly sweet and nutty flavor, which can add depth to baked goods.
When it comes to making oat milk, using oat flour can be a convenient option as it eliminates the need for blending whole oats. However, as mentioned earlier, the resulting milk may be slightly thinner in consistency compared to using rolled oats.
Benefits Of Making Oat Milk From Oat Flour
Making oat milk from oat flour has its own set of benefits that are worth considering. Firstly, oat flour is easier to store and has a longer shelf life than rolled oats. This means that you can make oat milk whenever you want without having to worry about running out of rolled oats.
Additionally, making oat milk from oat flour is quicker than using rolled oats. Since the flour is already finely ground, it blends more easily and requires less time to strain. This makes it a convenient option for those who are short on time but still want to enjoy the benefits of homemade oat milk.
Another advantage of using oat flour is that it can be a more cost-effective option. While rolled oats may be cheaper per pound, they require more water to make the same amount of milk as oat flour. This means that using oat flour can save you money in the long run.
Lastly, making oat milk from oat flour can be a great option for those with dietary restrictions or allergies. Since oat flour is naturally gluten-free, soy-free, nut-free, and dairy-free, it can be a safe and healthy alternative for those who need to avoid these ingredients.
How To Make Oat Milk From Oat Flour
Making oat milk from oat flour is a simple and easy process that can be done in just a few minutes. Here are the steps to follow:
1. Start by adding 1 cup of oat flour to a high-speed blender.
2. Pour in 4 cups of water and blend on high for 30-45 seconds until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
3. Next, strain the mixture through a clean t-shirt or towel to remove any pulp or chunks. You can also use a nut milk bag or cheesecloth if you have them on hand.
4. Squeeze out as much liquid as possible from the t-shirt or towel to get the most out of your oat milk.
5. If you prefer a thicker consistency, you can reduce the amount of water used in the recipe. Alternatively, if you want a thinner consistency, you can add more water until you reach your desired consistency.
6. Transfer the oat milk to a glass jar or bottle and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Making oat milk from oat flour is a great option for those who don’t have access to rolled oats or prefer a smoother texture. With just a few simple steps, you can make your own oat milk at home and enjoy it in your coffee, cereal, or smoothies.
Tips For Achieving The Perfect Consistency
If you’re using oat flour to make oat milk, there are a few tips to keep in mind to achieve the perfect consistency:
1. Adjust the water ratio: As mentioned earlier, using oat flour may result in a thinner consistency compared to using rolled oats. If you prefer a thicker consistency, try using less water. On the other hand, if you prefer a thinner consistency, try using more water.
2. Blend for longer: Since oat flour is finer than rolled oats, it may take longer to blend into a smooth and creamy mixture. Be sure to blend for at least 30-45 seconds on high speed to ensure that the mixture is well combined.
3. Strain thoroughly: When using oat flour, it’s important to strain the mixture thoroughly to remove any lumps or chunks. Use a clean t-shirt or towel to strain the mixture for best results.
4. Add flavorings: To enhance the flavor of your oat milk, consider adding vanilla extract, cinnamon, or sweeteners such as honey or maple syrup. These additions can also help to thicken the consistency of your oat milk.
By following these tips, you can easily make oat milk from oat flour with the perfect consistency for your needs. Experiment with different ratios and flavorings to find your favorite recipe!
Storing And Using Oat Milk
Once you’ve made your oat milk, it’s important to store it properly to ensure it stays fresh and safe to consume. Homemade oat milk typically lasts for about 5 days in the fridge, but it’s important to keep an eye (and a nose) on it. If it starts to smell off or funky, it’s time to toss it out.
To store your oat milk, transfer it to an airtight container and keep it in the fridge. It’s best to use the milk within the first few days for optimal freshness and taste. If you find that you can’t use up your oat milk fast enough, consider freezing it in ice cube trays for later use.
Oat milk can be used in a variety of ways, from adding it to coffee and tea to using it in recipes for baked goods, sauces, and more. It’s a versatile ingredient that can add creaminess and nuttiness to any dish.
One thing to keep in mind when using oat milk is that it may not work as a direct substitute for dairy milk in some recipes. For example, it may not curdle properly when used in recipes that require buttermilk or sour cream. However, there are plenty of recipes out there specifically designed for using plant-based milks like oat milk.
