Hearty Hemp Milk

Hemp seeds top my list of favourite ingredients. I use these buttery sesame-like (but more tender) seeds liberally and for good reason: hemp is one of the best sources of raw protein found in nature! It’s a complete protein, meaning it contains all 10 essential amino acids, is easy to digest, and is very low in allergens compared to soy or nuts, making them an excellent base for a dairy milk alternative. Furthermore, hemp seeds don’t require pre-soaking like nuts do to allow for their nutrients to be best absorbed. Hemp is also a standout as an amazingly sustainable crop that can grow in a wide range of conditions, doesn’t need much water to grow, and doesn’t require the use of pesticides and herbicides. I love the fact that they are as good for the environment as they are for us: a true superfood! Three tablespoons of hemp seeds contain 9.5 grams of protein, and their complete amino acid profile makes them a power provider of key building blocks for brain health, soothing our nervous system, positive mood, and weight management. 

Hearty Hemp Milk Recipe

I love using hemp milk as a base for smoothies, cereals, porridge, and chai tea. It’s also a great way to boost the protein content of any vegan dish, particularly for breakfast items that are often high carbohydrates and low in protein. In fact, a study published in The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition found that eating high protein (versus high carbohydrate) breakfasts allows for the suppression of ghrelin, a hormone which makes us hungry and stimulates fat storage. Including hemp seeds in your meals, especially at breakfast is a great way to fuel your family, keep hunger at bay, maintain good weight management, and enjoy a sustainable and nutritious superfood!

Ingredients

• ½ c hulled hemp seeds/hearts
• 3-4 c water 
• 1 pinch sea salt
• 1 whole date, pitted (optional) or a few teaspoons of maple syrup or honey
• ½ tsp vanilla extract (optional)

Instructions

1. Place hemp seeds, water, salt, and any additional add-ins to a high-speed blender and blend for about 1-2 minutes or until the mixture is smooth.
2. Taste for flavour and add more sweetness if necessary.
3. For a smoother texture, strain hemp milk through a nut milk bag or by using a strainer covered in a thin tea towel. Save the spent pulp to use in baking or porridge.
4. Transfer to a covered container and refrigerate. Will keep for up to 5 days.