Are you a fan of almond milk but tired of constantly buying it from the store?
Making your own homemade almond milk is a great way to save money and ensure that you know exactly what ingredients are going into your drink.
However, once you’ve made your batch, you may be wondering how to preserve it for longer.
In this article, we’ll explore different methods for preserving homemade almond milk so that you can enjoy it for days to come.
From refrigeration to freezing, we’ve got you covered.
So, let’s dive in and learn how to preserve your delicious homemade almond milk!
How To Preserve Homemade Almond Milk?
Refrigeration is the most common method for preserving homemade almond milk. Once you’ve made your batch, transfer it to an airtight container and place it in the refrigerator. Homemade almond milk will last in the fridge for up to 3-5 days.
It’s important to store the almond milk towards the back of the fridge where the temperature is the coldest and most stable. Avoid storing it on the door where the temperature fluctuates.
If you want to extend the shelf life of your homemade almond milk, you can freeze it. Pour the almond milk into an ice cube tray and place it in the freezer. Once frozen, transfer the cubes to a freezer-safe bag or container. Frozen almond milk will last for up to 3 months.
However, there are a few things to keep in mind when freezing almond milk. First, be sure to place it in an airtight container or glass that is freezer-friendly. Second, be aware that the color of the milk may change to a lighter yellow after freezing. Third, thaw the almond milk overnight in the fridge and give it a good shake before drinking as pulp may have settled at the bottom.
It’s important to note that homemade almond milk doesn’t last as long as store-bought nut milks because it’s not pasteurized. Store-bought nut milks can last much longer in the fridge than homemade nut milks.
Why Preserve Homemade Almond Milk?
Preserving homemade almond milk is important for a few reasons. Firstly, it helps to reduce food waste by extending the shelf life of the milk. Secondly, it ensures that you always have fresh almond milk on hand for your recipes and meals. Finally, it can save you money in the long run by allowing you to make larger batches of almond milk at once.
When you make homemade almond milk, it’s important to remember that it doesn’t last as long as store-bought varieties. This is because homemade nut milks are not subjected to high heat during pasteurization, which means any bacteria present on the almonds is present in the final product. Additionally, blending plant milks at home introduces a large amount of oxygen into the liquid, which can hasten the degradation process and cause the almond milk to spoil more quickly.
By properly preserving your homemade almond milk through refrigeration or freezing, you can help to slow down this degradation process and ensure that your almond milk stays fresh for longer. This can help to reduce food waste and ensure that you always have fresh, nutritious almond milk on hand for your recipes and meals.
Refrigeration: The Basics
Refrigeration is a crucial step in preserving homemade almond milk. Once you’ve made your batch, transfer it to an airtight container and place it in the refrigerator. Homemade almond milk will last in the fridge for up to 3-5 days.
It’s important to store the almond milk in the coldest and most stable part of the fridge, which is typically towards the back. Avoid storing it on the door where the temperature fluctuates more frequently.
Before consuming your homemade almond milk, give it a good shake as separation may occur during refrigeration. If you notice any signs of spoilage or an off smell, discard the almond milk immediately.
If you want to extend the shelf life of your homemade almond milk, you can freeze it. However, keep in mind that freezing may alter the color and texture of the milk. When freezing, make sure to use an airtight container or glass that is freezer-friendly. Thaw the almond milk overnight in the fridge and give it a good shake before drinking as pulp may have settled at the bottom.
It’s important to remember that homemade almond milk doesn’t last as long as store-bought nut milks because it’s not pasteurized. Store-bought nut milks can last much longer in the fridge than homemade nut milks.
How Long Does Almond Milk Last In The Fridge?
The lifespan of almond milk in the fridge depends on whether it is store-bought or homemade. Store-bought almond milk, whether it’s shelf-stable or refrigerated, will last for 7 to 10 days in the fridge after opening. On the other hand, homemade almond milk will only last for up to 3-5 days in the fridge.
To ensure that your almond milk lasts as long as possible, make sure to store it in an airtight container and place it towards the back of the fridge where the temperature is most stable. Avoid storing it on the door where the temperature fluctuates.
If you want to extend the shelf life of your homemade almond milk, you can freeze it. Frozen almond milk will last for up to 3 months. However, be sure to place it in an airtight container or glass that is freezer-friendly and thaw it overnight in the fridge before consuming.
It’s important to remember that once you open a container of almond milk, bacteria and other pathogens can enter the liquid and container. Therefore, it’s crucial to consume the almond milk within the recommended time frame and discard any leftover milk that has passed its expiration date.
Freezing Almond Milk: Tips And Tricks
Freezing almond milk is a great option if you want to extend its shelf life. Here are some tips and tricks to ensure that your frozen almond milk stays fresh and tasty:
1. Use airtight containers: When freezing almond milk, it’s important to use airtight containers or freezer-friendly bags to prevent freezer burn and contamination from other foods.
2. Leave some space: Almond milk expands as it freezes, so be sure to leave some space in the container to allow for expansion. This will prevent the container from cracking or bursting.
3. Label and date: Always label and date your frozen almond milk containers or bags so that you know when it was frozen and how long it has been in the freezer.
4. Shake well after thawing: After thawing frozen almond milk, give it a good shake before using it. This will help to mix any separated pulp back into the milk and ensure a smooth consistency.
5. Use in cooked dishes: While thawed almond milk may not be suitable for drinking, it can still be used in cooked dishes such as soups, sauces, and baked goods.
By following these simple tips and tricks, you can preserve your homemade almond milk for longer and reduce food waste.
How To Thaw Frozen Almond Milk
If you have frozen almond milk, it’s important to thaw it properly to avoid further separation and spoilage. There are a few methods you can use to thaw frozen almond milk.
The first and best method is to thaw the almond milk in the refrigerator. Simply transfer the frozen almond milk to the fridge and allow it to thaw overnight. This slow thawing process will allow the almond milk to gradually return to its liquid form without separating too much.
If you need to defrost your almond milk more quickly, you can use warm water. Submerge the frozen container of almond milk in a larger bowl filled with lukewarm water. Alternatively, if you have frozen almond milk cubes, place them in a baggie and submerge them in a bowl of warm water, or run them under the faucet until the milk has completely defrosted. However, make sure that the water is not too hot or too warm as this can cause the almond milk to separate even more.
Avoid defrosting almond milk while cooking as this can result in a strange flavor or consistency in your recipe. It’s also important to note that once almond milk has been thawed, it should be used within 3-5 days and kept refrigerated at all times.
Other Ways To Preserve Almond Milk
Aside from refrigeration and freezing, there are other ways to preserve homemade almond milk and extend its shelf life. One method is to add a natural preservative such as lemon juice or apple cider vinegar. These acidic ingredients can help slow down the growth of bacteria and mold in the milk. Simply add 1-2 tablespoons of lemon juice or apple cider vinegar per quart of almond milk before refrigerating.
Another way to preserve homemade almond milk is to pasteurize it. Pasteurization involves heating the milk to a specific temperature for a certain amount of time to kill any harmful bacteria. To pasteurize almond milk at home, heat it on the stove over low heat until it reaches 161°F (72°C) and hold it at that temperature for 15 seconds. Then, immediately cool the milk down in an ice bath and transfer it to an airtight container for storage.
Lastly, you can add natural thickeners such as xanthan gum or carrageenan to your homemade almond milk. These ingredients can help improve the texture of the milk and prevent separation, which can lead to spoilage. However, it’s important to note that these thickeners may not be suitable for everyone and should be used in moderation.
