National Dish Taiwan: Almond Milk (Recipe)
In this article
Discover almond milk, a much-loved drink from the streets and small cafés of Taiwan! Made from little more than ground almonds and water, it is silky, gently sweet and wonderfully nutty, whether you sip it warm on a cool evening or chilled as a refreshing pick-me-up. With just a handful of ingredients you can bring this soothing Taiwanese classic straight into your own kitchen.
About Almond Milk
Taiwanese almond milk is a popular drink that delights locals and visitors alike. You will often find it freshly prepared at small cafés or street stalls, where the aroma of ground almonds fills the air. The simple blend of ground almonds and water gives it a nutty richness that is hard to match. There are many variations, enriched with extras such as sugar, honey or sometimes even warming spices, so each cup can taste a little different.
Ingredients (serves 1–2)
- 150 g almonds (unroasted)
- 1 litre water (cold or warm)
- 2–4 tablespoons sugar or honey (to taste)
- A pinch of salt
- Optional: vanilla pods or cinnamon sticks for extra flavour
Shopping for the ingredients
When shopping for the ingredients, it is worth choosing good-quality almonds, as they form the heart of the drink. Look for almonds that are fresh and unroasted, so their natural flavour comes through cleanly. For sweetness you can pick between sugar, honey or even palm sugar, depending on which you prefer. These ingredients are easy to find in most supermarkets or health-food shops.
Preparing the dish
Before you start, the almonds need to soak in water for a few hours. This makes them far easier to blend and improves the availability of their nutrients. Ideally, leave the almonds to soak overnight so they soften and release more of their natural flavour. Remember to rinse the soaked almonds well afterwards to wash away any residue.
Step-by-step instructions
- Put the soaked almonds into a blender and combine with 1 litre of water.
- Blend thoroughly until the almonds are completely broken down and the mixture turns milky.
- Strain the liquid through a fine sieve or a nut-milk bag to remove the almond pulp.
- Pour the strained almond milk into a pan, add the sugar or honey and a pinch of salt, and stir well.
- Optionally, add vanilla pods or cinnamon sticks and warm the mixture gently to deepen the flavour.
Gluten-free / lactose-free version
Taiwanese almond milk is naturally gluten-free and lactose-free, as it is made mainly from almonds and water. This makes it an excellent choice for anyone with intolerances. To be sure every ingredient is free of gluten, avoid heavily processed sweeteners and check the labels carefully. This wholesome option fits perfectly into a tasty and nourishing diet.
Tips for vegans and vegetarians
Vegans can enjoy Taiwanese almond milk without a second thought, as it contains no animal products at all. Simply reach for plant-based sweeteners to add a touch of sweetness. For an extra boost of nutrients, you can also stir in superfood ingredients such as chia seeds or hemp seeds. Playing with different plant-based additions can lead to an even more varied tasting experience.
More tips and tricks
To achieve the ideal consistency for your almond milk, adjust the amount of water depending on how thick or thin you like your drink. Another handy tip is not to throw away the almond pulp left over after straining. It can be folded into baking recipes or used as a topping for yoghurt and muesli, so you make the most of all the almonds’ goodness. Feel free to experiment with other nuts to create different flavours, much as you would in a Peanut Soup.
Adapting the recipe to your taste
Taiwanese almond milk is easy to tailor to your personal preferences. Some people love adding a spoonful of cocoa powder for a chocolatey twist. Others experiment with spices such as turmeric or ginger to bring extra health benefits. Let your creativity run free and discover new flavours — you might find inspiration in a warming Black Sesame Soup.
Ingredient substitutions
If you do not have almonds to hand, you can use other nuts such as cashews or hazelnuts to create a similarly delicious drink. Oats can also serve as the base for a plant-based milk alternative. Just be mindful of the change in ratios with the water to reach the consistency you want. Depending on the nuts or grains you choose, you will uncover some exciting new flavours.
Drink pairing ideas
Taiwanese almond milk pairs beautifully with a range of drinks and foods. A classic tea or a fresh fruit smoothie sits wonderfully alongside its nutty note. Chai tea or iced tea also make lovely companions, as does a playful glass of Bubble Tea. Try creative cocktails mixed with almond milk to create new flavour experiences!
Serving and presentation ideas
The way you present your Taiwanese almond milk can add a great deal to the enjoyment. Use clear glasses to show off the creamy texture. A few slivers of almond or a dusting of cinnamon can lift your almond milk visually. Fresh herbs such as mint also work brilliantly as a garnish, bringing an extra hint of freshness to the glass.
A bit of history
The roots of Taiwanese almond milk reach far back and are closely tied to the island’s culture and cuisine. Almonds were originally introduced from the Mediterranean and quickly found a place in everyday Taiwanese life. The drink is often enjoyed as a refreshment after a hearty meal and is a popular feature at festivals and celebrations. This rich tradition gives almond milk its special place in Taiwanese cuisine, alongside sweet favourites like Almond Jelly.
More recipe ideas
Summary: Almond Milk
Taiwanese almond milk is a delicious and versatile drink that can be enjoyed warm or cold. With just a few ingredients, it brings the flavours of Taiwan straight into your home. Thanks to its adaptability and the freedom to shape it around your own preferences, it remains a much-loved classic. Try making it yourself and let its creamy consistency and nutty flavour work their magic!
