Are you an oat milk lover who can't get enough of that creamy, plant-based goodness? Whether you’re a traditional carton buyer, or a DIY oat milk maestro, wasting even a drop of this liquid gold is out of the question. So today, we're here to answer the age-old question: can you freeze oat milk? Grab your mittens and let's dive into this chilly mystery!
Can You Freeze Oat Milk?
Oat milk has skyrocketed in popularity as a planet-friendly and dairy-free alternative to cow's milk. But can you freeze it? The answer is a resounding YES! You can absolutely freeze oat milk for up to 3 months. You might find that the oat milk settles in the freezing process, so it will come out grainy when it defrosts. However, it will still be fine to use for cooking or smoothies.
How do you freeze oat milk?
Choose a sealable, air-tight container for your oat milk. Glass jars are an excellent choice (even just used jars with the labels removed)! Carefully pour the oat milk into the container, leaving some headroom to accommodate expansion during freezing. Remember, we want to avoid any oat-tastrophes that could potentially occur in your freezer!
Above: Glass jars are great for freezing oat milk. Remember to leave room to expand.
Another handy freezing method is to transform your oat milk into convenient cubes. Simply pour the milk into an ice-cube tray and let it freeze. Once the cubes are solid, pop them out and transfer them into a glass jar, labelling it with the date for reference. These pre-portioned oat milk cubes can be added directly to your saucepan, making meal preparation a breeze.
What Happens to Its Texture and Taste?
When oat milk is frozen and then thawed, you may notice a slight change in its consistency. It can become slightly grainy, but there's a simple solution to restore its smoothness. By straining the thawed oat milk through a muslin cloth, you can effectively filter out the grainy particles.How Long Can You Freeze Oat Milk?
When stored at -18°C, oat milk can stay frozen for up to three months without losing its charm. Just be sure to consume it within this timeframe to enjoy the best quality and taste.
How do you Defrost Oat Milk?
When the time comes to defrost your oat milk, simply transfer it to the refrigerator and let it thaw overnight. Once defrosted, give it a gentle shake or stir to reincorporate any separated elements. If you’re using frozen cubes, they can go straight into your cooking or smoothies. And voila! Your oat milk is ready to dazzle your taste buds once more.
By following these tips, you can avoid pouring that half-carton of oat milk down the drain when you go on your next holiday. Considering the increasing cost of living and the carbon foot print of food waste, it's certainly a situation we want to want to avoid!
FAQs
Can you freeze almond milk?
Yes, you can freeze almond milk and other plant-based milks too! Again, freezing may slightly affect the texture, but it's still safe to consume.
How long does oat milk last?
Oat milk has a shelf life of around 7 -10 days when stored properly in the refrigerator. However, this can vary depending on the brand and any preservatives used. It's best to refer to the expiration date on the packaging for specific guidance.
Can oat milk go bad?
Like any perishable food item, oat milk can go bad if not stored properly or kept past its expiration date. Oat milk is susceptible to spoilage, so it's essential to keep an eye on its freshness. If it smells sour or has an off taste, it's a clear indication that it has gone bad and should be discarded.
How to tell if oat milk goes bad?
There are a few signs to look out for to determine if oat milk has gone bad. First, check for any unusual or sour odours. If it smells off or unpleasant, it's likely spoiled. Next, give it a taste. If the flavour is sour or rancid, it's best to discard it. Lastly, visually inspect the oat milk for any changes in colour or texture. If it appears curdled or chunky, it's a definite sign that it has gone bad. Trust your senses and prioritize safety when in doubt.