Basic Preparation of Rice Milk: Recipes

Rice milk is a popular alternative to cow’s milk for those who are lactose intolerant or follow a vegan diet. It is not only delicious but also simple to prepare at home. With just a few ingredients and some easy steps, you can enjoy the goodness of rice milk in no time. In this article, we will explore two basic recipes for preparing rice milk.

Recipe 1: Stovetop Rice Milk

Ingredients:
– 1 cup long-grain white rice
– 4 cups filtered water
– 2-3 tablespoons sweetener of choice (such as maple syrup or agave nectar)
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)

Instructions:
1. Begin by rinsing the rice under cold water to remove any dirt or impurities.
2. In a large saucepan, combine the rinsed rice and filtered water. Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat.
3. Reduce the heat to low, cover the saucepan, and let the rice simmer for about 30 minutes or until the grains are soft and fully cooked.
4. Once the rice is cooked, remove the saucepan from the heat and let it cool for a few minutes.
5. Transfer the cooked rice and water mixture to a blender or food processor. Blend on high speed until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
6. Place a fine-mesh strainer or cheesecloth over a large bowl or pitcher.
7. Pour the blended mixture through the strainer or cheesecloth to separate the rice solids from the milk. Press down on the solids to extract as much liquid as possible.
8. Discard the rice solids or save them for other recipes, such as baking or making rice pudding.
9. Add the sweetener and vanilla extract (if desired) to the strained rice milk and stir well to combine.
10. Transfer the rice milk to a clean bottle or jar, and refrigerate for at least 2 hours before using. It is best consumed within 4-5 days.

Recipe 2: Rice Milk using Rice Flour

Ingredients:
– 1 cup rice flour
– 4 cups filtered water
– 2-3 tablespoons sweetener of choice
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)

Instructions:
1. In a saucepan, whisk together rice flour and filtered water until well combined and smooth.
2. Place the saucepan over medium heat and bring the mixture to a gentle boil, stirring continuously to prevent lumps from forming.
3. Reduce the heat to low and let the mixture simmer for about 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens to a milk-like consistency.
4. Remove the saucepan from the heat and let it cool for a few minutes.
5. Add the sweetener and vanilla extract (if desired) to the cooled rice milk mixture and stir well.
6. Transfer the rice milk to a clean bottle or jar, and let it cool completely before refrigerating. It can be consumed once chilled and will last for 3-4 days.

Rice milk can be used in various ways, such as pouring over cereal, adding to coffee or tea, or incorporating into smoothies and desserts. It is a versatile and nutritious dairy-free option that can be enjoyed by anyone.

In conclusion, making your own rice milk at home is an easy and cost-effective alternative to store-bought versions. With just a few basic ingredients and simple steps, you can create a delicious and healthy dairy-free milk alternative. Experiment with flavors and sweeteners to personalize your rice milk according to your taste preferences. Enjoy the process of making rice milk and reap the benefits of this wonderful dairy-free alternative.