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Like many coffee lovers, we have spent a lot of time perfecting the exact flavour that we want from our coffee. But with the introduction of more and more dairy alternatives, the freedom to experiment is endless – and a great way to “espresso” yourself.
As we sip on a perfectly milky latte writing this post, a thought pops into our heads. With the increasing number of dairy-free milk alternatives available, the opportunities to experiment are endless. Did you know that soya milk can be steamed and frothed into a cappuccino without separating? Or that you can make your own almond milk at home?
For many, the quest to find a dairy-free alternative is spurred on by lactose intolerance. Either that, or it’s an eco-conscious move towards reducing animal product intake. This then starts the process of scouring the market for dairy-free alternatives. However, some dairy-free milk, though delicious on it’s own, just doesn’t work in a mug of coffee. So, the dairy-free milk alternatives have to be coffee compatible.
Whether coffee shops will make a frothy coffee with dairy-alternatives is at their discretion, however, if you’re searching for a cows-milk free coffee, why not make it yourself. Soya, oat and almond milk changes both the taste and texture of frothy coffees. Meaning the flavour is different every time! This allows you to experience a unique cup of coffee as opposed to your ‘average joe’. Next time you’re picking up the milk for the office fridge, we recommend trying oat milk instead.
From our experience of working with, and providing water systems for some of the biggest coffee chains in the UK, the easiest dairy-free milk to froth and steam is soya milk. Almond and coconut milk are possible to use as well, but the risk of separation is much greater. Examples of coffee shops that stock dairy-free alternatives are as follows:
All the main chains of coffee shops can use dairy-free alternatives in all of the coffees they make. Sometimes though, there is a surcharge – so you could be better to make it yourself when you’re back in the office kitchen. However, The number of dairy-free options is very handy for vegans and people with dairy intolerances as they aren’t restricted in their coffee options.
If you fancy an almond milk coffee, it couldn’t be easier to make your own. It’s really simple! You can use either a blender or a food processor, and adjust the recipe depending on desired consistency.
Ingredients:
Almonds and water, that’s it!
Soak 1 cup of almonds in some water overnight (or for up to two days.) The longer they are soaked, the creamier the milk will be. Then drain and rinse them and grind them with 2 cups of fresh water. The liquid created – drained from the almond meal, is almond milk.
Homemade almond milk only lasts a few days in the fridge, but it can be pasteurised to extend shelf life. You can also add natural sweeteners like honey or syrup for a sweeter taste. So, why not make a batch of almond milk at home, and store it at work for when you want a cows-milk free coffee.
Whether you’re vegan, intolerant, or simply want to experiment; take your coffee to a greater level with dairy-free options.