How To Make Homemade Almond Milk in a Breville Big Squeeze

Welcome back to TheKitchenApplianceDad.com! If you’re looking to dive into the world of plant-based milks, you might have considered making your own almond milk at home. Not only is it a healthier alternative to store-bought versions, often laden with additives and preservatives, but it also gives you the freedom to customize the flavor according to your taste. And what better way to embark on this creamy adventure than with a top-notch appliance like the Breville Big Squeeze?

Today, I’ll guide you through the step-by-step process of making delicious homemade almond milk using the Breville Big Squeeze. This slow juicer is excellent for extracting every last drop of liquid from your almonds, ensuring you get the richest flavor and the most nutrients possible.

What You’ll Need

Before we start, let’s make sure you have everything you need:

• Breville Big Squeeze Juicer: This is our star appliance for the task at hand.
• 1 cup of raw almonds: High-quality, organic almonds will yield the best results.
• 2-4 cups of water for soaking: This is to prep the almonds for juicing.
• 3-4 cups of fresh water for making the milk: The amount depends on how creamy you want your milk.
• A pinch of sea salt: This is optional, but it can enhance the flavor of your almond milk.
• Sweeteners and flavorings: Think vanilla extract, dates, honey, or maple syrup, depending on your preference.
• A large bowl: You’ll need this for soaking the almonds.
• A fine-mesh nut milk bag or cheesecloth: To strain the almond pulp from the milk.

Preparing the Almonds

Soaking the Almonds

To start, you’ll need to soak your almonds. This is a crucial step that should not be skipped. Soaking does a few things: it softens the almonds, making them easier to squeeze for the Breville Big Squeeze, and it also helps to deactivate phytic acid, which can hinder nutrient absorption.

1. Place your almonds in the large bowl.
2. Cover them with 2-4 cups of water, ensuring they are fully submerged.
3. Let them soak for at least 12 hours or overnight.

Draining and Rinsing

After your almonds have soaked, you’ll notice they’ve plumped up a bit. That’s a good sign!

1. Drain the soaking water and rinse the almonds thoroughly under cool running water.
2. At this point, the almonds should feel a little squishy to the touch – that means they’re ready for juicing.

Making the Almond Milk

Setting Up Your Breville Big Squeeze

The Breville Big Squeeze is designed to be user-friendly, making it a great tool for this process.

1. Assemble your juicer according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
2. Ensure it’s properly set up to handle the task of juicing almonds, which can be tougher than juicing fruits and vegetables.

Juicing the Almonds

Now, let’s turn those soaked almonds into milk.

1. Add the soaked almonds into the Breville Big Squeeze feed chute.
2. Alternate between pouring almonds and adding fresh water into the juicer.
3. You can adjust the amount of water you use based on how thick or thin you like your almond milk. A good ratio to start with is 1 cup of soaked almonds to 3 cups of water.
4. Turn on the juicer and let it work its magic. The slow compression will extract the liquid, leaving the pulp behind.

Straining the Milk

For an extra-smooth milk, you’ll want to strain it.

1. Place your nut milk bag or cheesecloth over a large bowl or jug.
2. Pour the almond milk through the bag or cloth to catch any remaining almond pieces.
3. Squeeze the bag or cheesecloth to ensure you get every last drop of milk.

Flavoring Your Almond Milk

Here’s where you can get creative with your homemade almond milk.

• For a hint of sweetness: Add a couple of dates, a tablespoon of honey, or maple syrup into the Breville Big Squeeze along with the almonds.
• Vanilla almond milk: Include a teaspoon of vanilla extract for a classic flavor.
• Chocolate almond milk: Mix in a tablespoon of cocoa powder and your sweetener of choice for a delicious treat.
• Spiced almond milk: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for a warming drink.

Remember to add these flavorings during the juicing process so they fully incorporate into the milk.

Cleaning the Breville Big Squeeze

Maintaining your juicer is key to its longevity and performance. Thankfully, the Breville Big Squeeze is relatively easy to clean.

1.Disassemble the juicer parts that came into contact with the almonds.
2. Rinse each component under warm water to remove the bulk of the residue.
3. Use the included cleaning brush or a similar tool to scrub away any remaining particles.
4. Allow all the parts to air dry before reassembling your juicer.

Storing Your Homemade Almond Milk

Now that you’ve made your fresh almond milk, it’s important to store it properly.

1. Transfer the milk to airtight containers or glass bottles.
2. Keep it refrigerated, and shake well before each use as separation is natural.
3. Enjoy your homemade almond milk within 3-5 days for the best taste and quality.

The Benefits of Homemade Almond Milk

Making your own almond milk in a Breville Big Squeeze comes with a host of benefits:

• Customization: Adjust the thickness and flavor to your liking.
• Nutrition: Homemade almond milk contains no unnecessary additives or preservatives.
• Eco-friendly: You’re reducing packaging waste and knowing exactly where your ingredients come from.
• Economical: In the long run, making your own milk can be more cost-effective than buying pre-made, especially if you consume it regularly.

Key Takeaways

• Soak your almonds: This step is crucial for a smooth milk and better nutrient absorption.
• Use a Breville Big Squeeze: This slow juicer is perfect for extracting the maximum amount of liquid from your nuts.
• Strain for smoothness: Use a nut milk bag or cheesecloth to achieve a silky texture.
• Get creative with flavors: Add sweeteners, vanilla, chocolate, or spices to tailor the milk to your preferences.
• Clean your juicer promptly: This will ensure your Breville Big Squeeze stays in top condition.
• Store properly: Keep your almond milk refrigerated and consume it within a few days.

Thank you for joining me on this plant-based journey at TheKitchenApplianceDad.com. With your Breville Big Squeeze and a handful of almonds, you’re well on your way to enjoying homemade almond milk that’s not only delicious but also tailored just for you. Happy juicing!