Veganism is becoming increasingly popular as people become more conscious of the impact of their diet choices on the environment and animal welfare. One challenge that many vegans face is finding substitutes for traditional dairy products, such as sweetened condensed milk. But fear not, as we have an easy recipe for making vegan sweetened condensed milk at home.
Traditional sweetened condensed milk is made by simmering cow’s milk with sugar until it reduces and thickens. However, this vegan version uses coconut milk and sugar to achieve a similar creamy and sweet result. The best part is that you only need two ingredients and a few simple steps to make it yourself.
To start, gather the following ingredients:
– 2 cans of full-fat coconut milk
– 1 cup of sugar (can be white, brown, or coconut sugar)
First, pour the coconut milk into a saucepan and bring it to a simmer over medium heat. Make sure to use full-fat coconut milk for the best results, as the fat content helps to mimic the creamy texture of traditional sweetened condensed milk.
Once the coconut milk is simmering, add the sugar and stir to dissolve it completely. You can use any type of sugar you prefer, such as white, brown, or even coconut sugar for a more natural sweetness. Adjust the amount of sugar to your taste, as some people prefer a sweeter condensed milk while others may prefer it less sweet.
Continue to simmer the mixture over low heat for about 45-60 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent it from burning. The mixture will gradually reduce and thicken as it cooks, similar to the process of making traditional sweetened condensed milk.
After about an hour, the mixture should have thickened to a creamy and smooth consistency. You can test the readiness by dipping a spoon into the mixture and running your finger through it – if the line holds without the mixture running back together, it is ready.
Once the vegan sweetened condensed milk is ready, remove it from the heat and let it cool before transferring it to a jar or airtight container. You can store it in the refrigerator for up to two weeks, but it is so delicious that it probably won’t last that long!
This homemade vegan sweetened condensed milk can be used in a variety of recipes, such as vegan fudge, caramel sauce, ice cream, or even as a sweetener for coffee or tea. It adds a rich and creamy texture to dishes, making it a versatile ingredient in vegan cooking.
Not only is this vegan sweetened condensed milk easy to make, but it is also healthier than the traditional dairy version. Coconut milk is rich in healthy fats and vitamins, making it a nutritious alternative to cow’s milk. Additionally, by making your own sweetened condensed milk at home, you can control the ingredients and avoid the additives and preservatives often found in store-bought versions.
In conclusion, making vegan sweetened condensed milk at home is a simple and rewarding process that allows you to enjoy a dairy-free alternative to traditional sweetened condensed milk. With just two ingredients and a little time and effort, you can create a delicious and versatile ingredient that can be used in a variety of sweet treats. Give this recipe a try and experience the creamy goodness of vegan sweetened condensed milk for yourself!.