The most delicious rice pudding with just 2 ingredients

here’s how to make rice milk, along with serving suggestions and the nutritional properties of rice milk.

How to Make Rice Milk

Rice milk is a simple, dairy-free alternative to cow’s milk. Here’s a straightforward recipe:

Ingredients:

• 1 cup uncooked white rice (such as long-grain or jasmine rice)
• 4 cups water (plus more for rinsing)
• Pinch of salt (optional, but enhances flavor)
• Sweetener (optional, see suggestions below) – start with small amounts and adjust to taste.

Equipment:

• Measuring cups and spoons
• Medium-sized saucepan
• Fine-mesh strainer or cheesecloth
• Blender (high-speed blender is best, but any blender will work)
• Airtight container for storage

Instructions:

1. Rinse the Rice: Place the rice in a fine-mesh strainer and rinse under cold water until the water runs clear. This removes excess starch and helps prevent the milk from becoming too thick.
2. Cook the Rice: In the saucepan, combine the rinsed rice and 4 cups of water. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat. Then, reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the rice is very soft. The rice should be fully cooked.
3. Blend the Rice: Carefully pour the cooked rice and cooking water into a blender. Add a pinch of salt (if using). Blend on high speed for 1-2 minutes, or until the mixture is completely smooth and creamy. If you have a high-speed blender, you may be able to get a smoother result.
4. Strain the Milk: Place the fine-mesh strainer or a cheesecloth-lined strainer over a clean bowl or container. Pour the blended rice mixture through the strainer to remove any remaining solids. Press down on the solids with a spoon to extract as much liquid as possible. Discard the solids (or save them for other uses, such as adding to porridge or baked goods).
5. Sweeten and Flavor (Optional): At this stage, if you want to sweeten the rice milk, add your chosen sweetener (see options below) to taste. Blend again briefly to incorporate. You can also add a splash of vanilla extract or other flavors.
6. Cool and Store: Let the rice milk cool completely. Transfer it to an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator. Rice milk typically lasts for 4-5 days in the refrigerator. Shake well before serving, as some settling may occur.

Sweetening Options for Rice Milk

You can sweeten rice milk to your preference. Here are a few options:

• Grape Juice: Add a small amount of grape juice to the blended rice milk, tasting as you go. Grape juice can add a natural sweetness and flavor complexity. Be mindful of the added sugars. Start with about 1-2 tablespoons per cup of rice milk and adjust to taste.
• Dates: Dates are a good source of fiber and natural sweetness. Add 1-2 pitted dates (depending on their size and your desired sweetness level) to the blender during the blending process. Make sure to blend the dates well to avoid chunks.
• Sugar: Granulated sugar, brown sugar, or maple syrup can be used. Start with a teaspoon or two per cup of rice milk and adjust to taste.
• Other Sweeteners: You could also try honey, agave nectar, or other sweeteners you prefer.

Properties and Benefits of Rice Milk

Rice milk has several characteristics and potential benefits:

• Dairy-Free and Vegan: Rice milk is naturally dairy-free and suitable for vegans and those with lactose intolerance or dairy allergies.
• Low in Fat: Rice milk is generally low in fat.
• Allergy-Friendly: It is often considered a safe alternative for people with allergies to soy, nuts, or dairy. However, be aware that some commercial rice milk may be processed in facilities that also process nuts, so if you have a severe nut allergy, read labels carefully.
• Easily Digested: Rice milk is typically easy to digest.
• Nutritional Content: Rice milk provides carbohydrates and some vitamins and minerals. However, it is generally not a very nutrient-dense beverage on its own. Commercial rice milk is often fortified with calcium, vitamin D, vitamin B12, and other nutrients to make it more comparable to cow’s milk. Homemade rice milk is not fortified.
• Taste and Texture: It has a naturally slightly sweet and mild flavor. The texture is often thinner than cow’s milk or other plant-based milks.
• Versatility: It can be used in a variety of ways: in cereal, smoothies, coffee, baking, or as a milk substitute in recipes.

Important Considerations:

• Nutritional Deficiencies: Rice milk lacks the protein content of cow’s milk and may not be as rich in certain vitamins and minerals. If you are relying on rice milk as a primary source of milk, ensure you are getting adequate nutrients from other food sources.
• Glycemic Index: Rice milk has a high glycemic index, which means it can cause a rapid spike in blood sugar levels. This might be a concern for people with diabetes or those managing blood sugar.
• Commercial vs. Homemade: Commercial rice milk is often fortified and might have added sugars. Homemade rice milk doesn’t have those added ingredients, allowing you to control the ingredients and sweetness.
• Texture and Consistency: Homemade rice milk tends to be thinner than commercial varieties. You can adjust the amount of rice used or the blending time to achieve a thicker consistency.

Enjoy making your own rice milk!