This indispensible ingredient can, of course, be bought in a tetrapack ...but who knows where the almonds came from, how old they were, how long the tetrapack has been on the shelf, but who knows where the almonds came from, how old they were, how long the tetrapack has been on the shelf, or what all those listed ingredients really are? My preference for making my own led me to start this whole Nut Milk Bag adventure!
Combine all ingredients in an high-speed blender (Vitamix or similar) and process until smooth.
To separate the milk from the pulp: squeeze the mixture through the More than a NUT MILK BAG and compost the pulp or reserve it for use in cookies, piecrusts, breads or biscotti.
Serve at room temperature or chilled. Stored in a sealed glass jar in the refrigerator, Almond Milk will keep for up to 4 days. It naturally separates so shake well before serving.
Dates vary in size and degree of sweetness, you may wish to begin with 1 date and add for your preferred level of sweetness.
You may like the milk thinner -- just add more water before blending.
And if you'd like it thicker (cream) -- add less water before blending.
Remember when making Almond Milk for savory soups do not add the dates or vanilla.
Leftover almond pulp can be stored (in an airtight container) in the refrigerator for up to 6 days and the freezer for up to 4 months (defrost before using). The pulp may be used in other recipes or dehydrate it then grind it in the food processor and use it as flour.
For a LOT more about making successful Almond Milk, read my hints here.