6 Milk Alternatives To Try If You're Going Dairy-Free

If you're lactose intolerant or avoid dairy for dietary reasons, even stepping out to a café can make you think twice. But you don't have to worry anymore or feel deprived. The availability of nut milks, often called 'mylks', have increased greatly in supermarkets and have made it possible to pick and choose if you opt for a dairy-free drink. Brands like Raw Pressery, who launched their range of almond milk recently, and SoFit are available at stores in case you'd like to pick up a few packs. Here are six types of nut milks to choose from for your next cup.

1. Almond Milk

One of the most popular nut milks is almond milk. Made from whole almonds and water, the end product has a slightly nutty flavour and is available at many stores. According to Healthline, almond milk isn't very heavy on calories while being a rich source of Vitamin E. The kicker? You can make it at home. Simply soak your almonds in water overnight, grind them with the same water the next morning and strain the mass from it - that's it.

2. Soy Milk

If you want a dairy-free substitute that won't pinch your pocket, soy milk it is. It is easily available in a number of flavours, is creamy to taste and is close in nutritional value to cow's milk. Besides just that, soy milk is ideal to provide plant-based protein to the body.

3. Coconut Milk

While many of us have grown up enjoying coconut milk-based curries, it is also used plain as a substitute for dairy milk. Coconut milk has a distinct coconut flavor and is higher in fat than most but comes low on the calorie charts. That's what makes it ideal for smoothies and desserts too.

4. Rice Milk

Did you ever think your favourite rice could also be transformed into milk? Yes, rice milk does exist but it isn't as popular as its counterparts yet. Like the grain it comes from, this milk is comparatively higher in carbohydrate content but is excellent for those with extremely sensitivities and allergies.

5. Oat Milk

With oats and milk being the perfect breakfast meal, it was only a matter of time until oats were made into milk. Oat milk has a subtle sweet taste to it and is high in fibre, which further helps reduce cholesterol levels in the body.

6. Cashew Milk

The tastiest of nut milks is, without a doubt, cashew milk. It's rich and creamy with a nutty flavour. Cashew milk is so thick that it is often used to thicken desserts and gravies. It is also easy to make at home and low on calories but also low on protein and fat.

Along with these milk alternatives, there are also lesser known types like hemp milk, macadamia milk and quinoa milk which aren't as popular yet. So if you're staying off dairy, these nut milks will help you make the right choice.