Benefits of Oat Milk and How to Make It at Home

Oat milk is a plant-based drink enjoyed by vegans and by people who pay attention to their health and fitness. Making this drink at home is much easier than it may seem. Oat milk can provide some of the nutrients needed when avoiding milk and dairy products, and it has a wide range of uses, from breakfast to desserts. Here is information about its stated benefits, how to make it at home, and how to store it.

Nutritional value of oat milk
The B vitamins in oat milk are known for nourishing hair, skin, and nails. It is also described as a source of some protein, so it may provide some of the nutrients the body needs during periods when meat and dairy products are limited. Oat milk is said to contain about 2 grams of fiber per serving, which may support digestion and satiety. Its beta-glucan content is also said to support cholesterol balance; however, people with chronic conditions are advised to consult their doctor before making dietary decisions of this kind.

How to make oat milk at home
For oat milk, you need 1 measure of oats, 3 measures of water, and a pinch of salt. First rinse the oats with plenty of water, then add them to a blender with the water and salt and blend until smooth. You can make it without soaking, but oats soaked in water for a while make a smoother milk. Strain the blended mixture through a tightly woven cheesecloth or nut-milk bag; the leftover oat pulp can be used in cookie and cake batter instead of being discarded. If desired, lightly sweeten it with dates or honey.

How to store it
Homemade oat milk should be kept in an airtight glass bottle in the refrigerator and used within 3–4 days; its shelf life is much shorter than that of commercially sold, pasteurized products. Shake the bottle gently before use, since slight separation may form at the bottom over time. Oat milk can be frozen, although its texture may change slightly after thawing; briefly blending it again can restore the texture. Closing the bottle tightly after each use prevents it from absorbing other kitchen odors.

How to use oat milk in the kitchen
Oat milk can easily replace cow’s milk in coffee and tea, oatmeal, smoothies, and cake batter; because it froths, it is especially popular in milk-based coffee drinks. Do not boil it when heating; warm it slowly over medium heat, or it may separate. It can be used in recipes in the same amount as cow’s milk, but because oat milk is thinner, the amount may need to be reduced slightly in recipes that call for thick cream. It is also a popular alternative in dessert creams and pancake batter.

Who might choose it?
Oat milk is known as an alternative for people following a vegan diet, those sensitive to cow’s or goat’s milk, and those who experience discomfort after consuming lactose. People with gluten sensitivity are advised to choose certified gluten-free oats, since oats may come into contact with wheat during processing. If you have an allergy or a special dietary restriction, it is helpful to consult a health professional before starting to consume oat milk regularly.