Hemp Mylk. It Does a Body Good
Remember the marketing campaign, “MILK. It does a body good.” I can’t help but think of this every time I whip up a batch of hemp mylk. I spell it with a “y” so it sets it apart from dairy milk, its sister once removed.
My husband and two year old son LOVE it. When the season shifts to cooler morning, they are asking for more warmth in terms of temperature and spice and this provides both. My son likes it added to his oatmeal or cereal and his Papa likes to create his own version of a homemade latte. They both LOVE it when they have it and feel nourished and warm to start the day. It’s become our household “go to” milk alternative.
Recently I was in the check-out lane at my local natural food store and happened to be loading up on hemp seeds that day. When it was my turn to check-out, the cashier said to me jokingly, “How is this when you smoke it, anyway?” I thought that was kind of funny given I hadn’t thought twice about the purchase in that way. I responded, “Ahhh, it will most likely just give you a headache” and we both followed up with a good laugh. Ingesting hemp seeds and hemp milk will NOT get you high.
It’s funny to me that this particular cashier equated the hemp seeds in that way. I suppose it’s only been in the last 10 years that we can purchase pre-made hemp milk products in the store. Things like hemp seeds are more commonly available in our mainstream grocery stores. Over the years I’ve become less of a fan of the alternative milk options available in a box. When I read the list of ingredients, I return it to the shelf. I’ve experimented a lot with almond, oat and other alternatives in my kitchen, but I have to say, the hemp milk is my favorite for a few reasons.
Reasons to Love Hemp Mylk
- It’s easy and inexpensive to make at home.
- It tastes great.
- No straining necessary.
- It’s a “perfect protein” including 20 amino acids and 9 essential amino acids.
- A 3:1 balance of Omega 3 and Omega 6 fatty acids, which promote cardiovascular health.
- A rich source of phytonutrients.
Making Homemade Hemp Mylk
Place the following ingredients into a high powered blender and go for it.
- ¼ cup hemp seeds
- ½ teaspoon vanilla
- Pinch of salt
- 4-5 dates (soaked overnight is best)
- Approximately 3 cups hot water – depending on how thick you like it
- Other spices (cinnamon, cardamom, ginger, pippali)
Uses for Hemp Mylk
- Add it to your kids oatmeal, granola or cereal.
- Include it in your smoothie.
- Make a dandy blend, chai or coffee latte for a milky version of your morning cuppa.
Other uses of hemp seeds:
- Add to your morning smoothie for a creamy consistency.
- Sprinkle on top of salads for a nutty flavor.
- Add to salad dressings before blending for a creamy consistency.
- Put them in bars and baked goods.
We are really into hemp at my house right now. Besides being easy to prepare, easy to make and easy to clean up, I love it because it is nutrient dense. It’s chalked full of nutrition I want in my body and in my son’s body. There are certain times of the year when having some cheese or cream is less of an issue, but I’ve really noticed it weighing on our systems during the transitions of the seasons. We all have less congestion, less mucus and snot and feel lighter overall when the seasons turn by avoiding dairy.
If you are interested in exploring homemade options for mylk, give this one a try. I’ve found this alternative to be a great, hearty morning beverage for all ages. While we don’t have hemp mylk every day, when we do it’s a hit. I do believe it “does a body good”.
Experience it for yourself and tell us what you think!
