Sesame milk

Sesame milk - a simple and healthy recipe

Sesame milk is a delicious and healthy alternative to cow's milk, packed with nutrients and flavor. It's an excellent choice for those following a vegan diet or for anyone looking to avoid dairy for various reasons. This recipe is not only quick and easy to make, but it can also be customized to suit individual tastes. Additionally, it's a wonderful way to incorporate sesame seeds, which are rich in calcium, protein, and antioxidants, into your daily diet.

Preparation time: 10 minutes
Soaking time: 12 hours (ideally overnight)
Total time: 12 hours and 10 minutes
Servings: 4

Ingredients:
- 1 cup of sesame seeds (about 150 g), soaked overnight in water
- 700-1000 ml of water (depending on desired consistency)
- 1-2 tablespoons of cinnamon (optional, for flavor)
- 2-3 dates or figs (optional, for sweetness)
- Agave syrup (optional, for sweetness)

Preparation:

1. Start by soaking the sesame seeds: It is recommended to place the sesame in cold water and let it soak overnight. This step will not only make the seeds easier to blend but will also improve the texture of the milk. Soaking also helps remove antinutrients that can interfere with mineral absorption.

2. Prepare the ingredients: The next day, drain the water in which the sesame has soaked. Now is the time to decide if you want to sweeten the milk. If you choose to use dates or figs, it’s best to soak them for a few hours as well, so they become softer and easier to blend.

3. Blending: In a blender, add the drained sesame and water (700-1000 ml, depending on how concentrated you want the milk). If you decided to add cinnamon or dried fruits for sweetness, now is the time to include them. Blend everything on high speed for 2-3 minutes until the mixture becomes smooth.

4. Straining: Use a cheesecloth or fine sieve to strain the milk. You can use a spatula or spoon to help extract the milk from the sesame pulp. This pulp can be saved for use in other recipes, such as cookies or baked goods.

5. Enjoy: The sesame milk is now ready! You can enjoy it plain, add it to smoothies, cereals, or even coffee. I recommend storing it in the refrigerator, where it will stay fresh for about 3-5 days.

Useful tips:
- Flavoring: Adding cinnamon not only enhances the taste but also brings health benefits, such as antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.
- Sweetening: If you prefer a sweeter milk, agave syrup or dates are excellent options. Dates also add a caramel note while agave syrup is lower in calories.
- Variations: You can experiment with other flavors like vanilla or cocoa to achieve a different twist on sesame milk.

Nutritional benefits:
Sesame milk is an excellent source of calcium, B vitamins, iron, and magnesium, making it a nutritious choice for anyone looking to adopt a healthy lifestyle. Due to its protein content, it is ideal for vegetarians and vegans, and it has anti-inflammatory properties as well.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use other seeds? Absolutely! You can substitute sesame seeds with almonds or nuts to create a variety of plant-based milk.
2. What can I do with the leftover pulp? The sesame pulp can be used in various cookie recipes, smoothies, or even in savory dishes like meatballs.
3. Is sesame milk good for cooking? Yes, sesame milk can be used in soups, sauces, or even desserts, adding a unique flavor and creamy texture.

Serving suggestion: I recommend serving sesame milk with crunchy cookies or a slice of toasted bread with almond butter. It’s a delicious combination that will turn breakfast into a memorable experience.

Enjoy this simple and healthy sesame milk recipe, and don’t hesitate to experiment with different ingredients and flavors. Every preparation is an opportunity to explore your creativity in the kitchen. Bon appétit!