Sunflower Seed Milk

Sunflower is a plant that has a very long history of human use. This plant with large yellow flowers has been used for various purposes, for a very long time. However, the most important among them are the culinary uses. Today, sunflower oil is one among the widely used cooking oils across the globe. Sunflower seeds, from which the oil is extracted, are also used as tasty snacks. The seeds are added to various recipes like breads, cakes, cereals, and cookies. They are also sprouted and added to salads and other dishes. Milk extracted from sunflower seeds is also highly valued for its nutritional benefits.

What is Sunflower Seed Milk

If you are interested in using plant-based milk, there are numerous options like, rice milk, soy milk, almond milk, hemp milk, coconut milk, peanut milk, cashew milk, sesame seed milk, etc. While, soy milk is one of the popular types, sunflower seed milk is also used in many regions. This seed milk is highly nutritious and tasty too. Consuming this milk is one of the best methods for reaping the nutritional benefits of sunflower seeds. It can be consumed as such or can be used for cooking and baking. This non dairy milk can also be used by those with lactose intolerance. Nowadays, you may find this product in supermarkets. But, homemade ones are always preferred.

How to Make it

So, sunflower seed milk can be prepared at home, without much efforts. You need organic sunflower seeds (plain ones and not the flavored, roasted or salted types) and a good blender for making it. Soak a cup of these seeds in filtered water for at least six hours. You may also go for overnight soaking, if you want to prepare this seed milk in the morning itself. Make sure to use sufficient water for soaking, as the seeds will swell up and increase in size. Once soaked well, sunflower seeds will get soft and slightly swollen. Drain the water and rinse the soaked seeds well, before putting them in the blender.

Pour two cups of filtered water into the blender and run the machine, till you get a smooth creamy mixture that will be whitish in color. Use a nut milk bag or fine mesh sieve for straining the mixture. You may also use a cheesecloth for straining. If you find this seed milk to be too thick, add enough water for the desired consistency. You may either use it as such or with sweeteners and other additives like vanilla essence. Chilled version is also very popular.

Sunflower Seed Milk Nutrition

Besides being delicious, sunflower seeds are often described as a powerhouse of nutrients. These seeds contain high levels of vitamin E, which has strong antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Apart from that, these seeds are rich in vitamin A, vitamin B1, vitamin B5, folate, magnesium, calcium, zinc, manganese, copper, selenium and phosphorous. These seeds are also a source of essential fatty acids, amino acids, phytosterols, etc. These seeds are believed to be useful for lowering cholesterol levels and for boosting cardiovascular health. Being rich in nutrients, sunflower seeds offer various health benefits too. So, you may include these seeds in your diet, in the form you prefer.

To conclude, sunflower seed milk can be a delicious and nutritious beverage. You may prepare it at home, rather than using store-bought ones. However, those with sunflower seed allergy must refrain from using this milk. Otherwise too, moderate use is always preferred.