Description
This refreshing homemade oat coconut milk combines creamy oats and unsweetened coconut flakes to create a naturally sweet, dairy-free milk alternative perfect for cold dishes like cereal and smoothies. Simple to prepare in about 15 minutes, this vegan and gluten-free milk offers a nutritious and delicious option for those seeking a plant-based beverage without added preservatives.
Ingredients
Oat Milk Base
- 1 cup rolled oats (gluten-free certified if needed; do not use steel cut oats)
- 3 cups icy cold water
- 1 teaspoon maple syrup or 1 date (pit removed), optional
Coconut Milk Mixture
- 1/2 cup unsweetened coconut flakes (or shredded coconut)
- 1 cup water
Instructions
- Grind the Oats: Blitz the rolled oats in a dry blender container to grind them into a fine powder. If using a high-power blender like a Vitamix, you can skip this step to avoid over-processing.
- Blend Oats and Water: Add the ground oats, icy cold water, and maple syrup or date (if using) to the blender. Blend for 30-40 seconds, ensuring not to over-blend to avoid heating the mixture, which can alter the texture.
- Strain the Oat Milk: Line a mesh sieve with cheesecloth and place it over a large bowl or jar. Pour the blended oat mixture through the cheesecloth to strain out the oat pulp, extracting smooth oat milk.
- Blend Coconut and Water: Add the unsweetened coconut flakes and 1 cup of water to the blender. Blend for about 3 minutes until well combined and creamy.
- Combine and Strain: Pour the blended coconut mixture through the cheesecloth along with the oat milk. For an extra smooth texture, you may strain the combined liquid once more.
- Serve and Store: Serve the oat coconut milk cold, ideal for cereals and smoothies. Store any leftovers in the refrigerator and consume within 5 days. Discard if the milk develops a sour smell, indicating spoilage.
Notes
- Use rolled oats (not steel cut) for the best texture.
- Avoid blending too long or using high power to keep the milk cold and prevent thickening.
- Straining twice results in smoother milk but is optional.
- This milk is best enjoyed cold as it does not heat well.
- Store in the refrigerator and consume within 5 days for freshness.
- Maple syrup or date is optional for a touch of sweetness.
