Plant-based milk is taking the world by storm, and it’s no mystery why. Available in a whole host of varieties, each with their own unique flavor, plant milk is a versatile alternative to dairy that works a treat in a wide range of recipes. One of the most popular varieties of plant-based milk is rice milk. First developed in China over 3000 years ago, rice milk is growing in popularity in recent times due to its mild flavor and suitability as a substitute for conventional cow’s milk. We’re sure you’ve seen it on the shelves of your local store, but did you know that making rice milk at home is actually quite easy? Join Mahatma® Rice as we guide you through how to make homemade rice milk the easy way.
What Does Rice Milk Taste Like?
First off, in case you haven’t already tried it, rice milk is naturally mild and sweet in flavor and also has that familiar and much-loved milky texture. Try it with your cereal in the morning and taste the difference. Or, use it as a base for your favorite fruit smoothie. You won’t be disappointed.
Benefits of Rice Milk
Rice milk has many characteristics that make it an appealing alternative to ordinary milk. Here are some of the main benefits of consuming it:
- Suitable for people who are lactose intolerant
- Gluten-free
- Lower fat content than cow’s milk
- Naturally sweet-tasting
- Mild in flavor
- Easy to digest
Making Rice Milk at Home – Equipment
One of the upsides of rice milk is that you can easily make it from the comfort of your own home. All you need is rice, water, a strainer, a pitcher, and a blender.
- Step 1: Take ¾ cup of uncooked rice and soak it for 2 hours in hot water.
- Step 2: After 2 hours, the grains will have softened somewhat but should still be hard on the inside.
- Step 3: Drain the rice using a fine strainer or nut milk cloth and add it to a high-speed blender.
- Step 4: Add 4 cups of water to the blender and firmly secure the lid.
- Step 5: Once the rice mix has been thoroughly blended strain again and add it to a pitcher.
- Step 6: Refrigerate and consume within 3 days.
Optional Additions
Various optional ingredients can be included to enhance the flavor and nutritional value of rice milk. What’s more, these additions can make the milk more versatile for a wider variety of culinary uses.
- Salt: A pinch of salt can enhance the overall flavor of the milk, balancing sweetness and improving taste.
- Sweeteners: Natural sweeteners such as dates, maple syrup, or coconut sugar can be added to achieve the desired sweetness. Each option imparts its own unique flavor.
- Flavor Extracts: Vanilla or almond extract can introduce pleasant flavors. A few drops are often sufficient to make a noticeable difference.
- Spices: Spices like cinnamon or nutmeg can add warmth and depth to the milk, making it suitable for various recipes.
- Cocoa Powder: For a chocolate flavor, adding cocoa powder transforms rice milk into a delightful treat, perfect for desserts.
- Fruits: Fresh fruits such as bananas or berries can be blended in for a nutritious twist and natural sweetness.
Best Rice Variety to Make Rice Milk
The best kind of rice to use in rice milk depends on your personal preferences. For a creamy texture and nutty twist, we recommend Mahatma® Whole Grain Brown Rice. Alternatively, for a more fragrant and refreshing finish, both Mahatma® Basmati Rice and Mahatma® Jasmine Rice work a treat. Here’s a useful guide to the most popular varieties and the results they produce:
Using Rice Milk as Substitute for Dairy in Recipes
Now that you’re up to speed on how to whip up a pitcher of fresh rice milk at home, let’s look at some recipes where you can use it as a substitute for cow’s milk. Due to its naturally sweet flavor, rice milk works great in dessert recipes. Try it in this Strawberry Churro Rice Pudding recipe and enjoy a sweet and creamy delight. Likewise, this Coconut Rice Pudding Milkshake is also easily adaptable to suit preferences for dairy-free treats.
Craveworthy and Creative Horchata Recipes
You may think that rice milk as a concept is relatively new, at least in terms of its widespread availability in the US. However, people have been enjoying a version of rice milk right here in America for quite a while. You’ve guessed it, we’re talking about horchata! If you like the taste of rice milk, then you’ll love the many delicious variations of horchata recipes out there. Take this Horchata Whipped Ice Coffee, for example. Rich in flavor and smooth in texture, it works wonderfully as a dessert or a cool and refreshing snack with a coffee-flavored twist. Alternatively, if you prefer something sweet and fruity, try our Banana Horchata Smoothie. It makes for a delightful breakfast drink first thing in the morning or as a sweet treat at any time of the day.
For more recipe inspiration and cooking tips, be sure to drop by our kitchen, where there is always something delicious cooking!
