From the depths of the Amazon rainforest, you’ll find brazil nuts, regarded as a nutritional powerhouse by Amazonian tribes. Brazil nut milk comes from these rich and buttery oblong nuts, a delicious non-dairy milk alternative. Admittedly, finding brazil nut milk at the store might be a bit of a challenge, but with some creativity, you can whip up your own batch. Interested to see how this unique nut milk compares to the beloved cow’s milk? Let’s see if we can inspire a sip of something new!
Comparing brazil nut milk vs milk
| Brazil nut milk | Cow milk (including whole, 2%, skim, etc.) | |
| Type | Plant-based (brazil nut is technically a seed!) | Animal-based |
| Allergens | Tree nuts | Milk |
| Vegan? | Yes | No |
| Paleo? | Likely, if made with paleo-friendly ingredients | No |
| Keto? | Likely, if made with keto-friendly ingredients | No |
Brazil nut milk is a top pick for vegans, and it can be tailored to fit the low-carb and whole-food requirements of keto and paleo diets. However, brazil nuts are tree nuts, and while they are technically seeds, they can still trigger tree nut allergies in some people. Cow’s milk doesn’t align with paleo, vegan, or keto diets, and it’s a no-go for those with milk allergies.
Differences between brazil nut milk vs milk
What distinguishes brazil nut milk and cow’s milk the most is their origin and composition. Brazil nut milk is made by blending brazil nuts with water, which results in a creamy, nutty, dark beige mixture. In contrast, cow’s milk comes from dairy cows and has a naturally thinner texture and whiter color.
Brazil nut milk is almost identical to cashew milk in texture and is creamy, full, and smooth thanks to it being high in good fats. It’s said to taste mild but also slightly similar to cow milk and earthy toasted oats. Cow’s milk boasts a milder, neutral flavor that is familiar to all of us.
Types of cow’s milk
Since cow’s milk is so commercialized, you can find a large variety of milk types on the market. Let’s take a quick look at the main kinds:
Whole milk: Whole milk is creamy and rich, with about 3.25% milk fat.
2% milk (reduced-fat): 2% milk finds a balance between lower fat content and creaminess, with about 2% milk fat.
1% milk (low-fat): If you’re watching your fat intake, 1% milk has less fat, at around 1% milk fat.
Skim milk (non-fat): Skim milk contains almost 0 fat, making it the lightest option of cow milk available.
Lactose-free milk: Lactose-free milk is real cow’s milk with added lactase enzymes, making it easier to digest for individuals with lactose intolerance.
Raw cow milk (whole): Raw cow milk is straight from the cow, unpasteurized and untouched, which may carry health risks.
Flavored milk: Flavored milks like chocolate, strawberry, and vanilla infuse extra sweetness and fun into your milk.
How to use brazil nut milk vs milk
Brazil nut milk:
- Add a thick, creamy, and nutty dimension to fruit or green smoothies.
- Pour over sweet and savory oatmeal or cereal.
- Use as a nutty dairy-free creamer.
- Use in puddings, custards, and ice creams for a velvety texture.
- Drink as is for a boost of energy and nutrition.
- Make marinades for fish.
Milk:
- Make traditional desserts like rice pudding, custard, and flan.
- Make cheese and yogurt.
- Froth for coffee, tea, or hot chocolate.
- Use in casseroles, creamed spinach, or other savory classics.
- Use in baked goods like cakes or bread.
- Whip up sauces and dressings.
Can you substitute brazil nut milk for milk?
Substituting brazil nut milk for milk and vice versa is possible, but only if you consider their flavor profiles. Brazil nut milk has a distinct toasty, nutty taste, so it works best in recipes where this will complement the dish. For example, nutty-flavored muffins or cookies, or even coffee or tea. But in areas where you need the neutrality of cow’s milk and the full-bodied qualities, like creamy sauces or certain desserts, brazil nut milk might not be the best fit.
Nutrition: Brazil nut milk vs milk
Not all the nutritional values for brazil nut milk are readily available and reliable, but what we do know is that brazil nut milk has a host of potential health benefits. While it is very high in calories (219 per 1 cup!) and high in total fat (22g of total fat), it is low in carbs and comes with a decent amount of protein. What’s more, just a small serving will provide all daily selenium recommendations, a mineral that has antioxidant properties and supports thyroid health and cognitive support.
There’s also a reason why cow’s milk has been a top choice for centuries. It is an all-rounder when it comes to nutrition, providing riboflavin, vitamin B12, potassium, thiamin, and more. It’s also loved for its high calcium content (25% – 30% DV) and high protein content (8g). Depending on the milk you choose, it’ll come with varying amounts of calories, carbs, and fat. For example, skim milk will come with fewer calories and no fat, while 2% milk will offer more fat and calories.
| Per 1 cup (237 ml/8 oz.) | Calories | Total fat (sat. fat) | Total carbs | Total sugars (incl. added) | Protein | Calcium | Vit D |
| Brazil nut milk | 219 | 22 g (? g) | 4 g | ? | 5 g | ? | ? |
| Whole milk | 160 | 8 g (4.5 g) | 11 g | 10 g (0 g) | 8 g | 25% DV | 10% DV |
| 2% milk | 130 | 5 g (3 g) | 12 g | 12 g (0 g) | 8 g | 25% DV | 10% DV |
| 1% milk | 110 | 2.5 g (1.4 g) | 13 g | 12 g (0 g) | 8 g | 25% DV | 10% DV |
| Skim milk (non-fat milk) | 90 | 0 g | 13 g | 12 g (0 g) | 8 g | 30% DV | 25% DV |
? = reliable information not available (e.g., commercial versions not available, incomplete information, etc.)
How to store brazil nut milk vs milk
It’s considered even more difficult to find brazil nut milk than even macadamia milk and pea milk, so if you’re able to find packaged varieties, you’ll have to follow the best before guidelines on the packaging. If you’re making your own brazil nut milk, store in the fridge immediately and use within 5 days.
Cow’s milk needs to be stored in the fridge at all times. Unopened cow’s milk lasts 4 – 7 days past the expiration date, while opened cow’s milk will stay fresh for different lengths of time depending on the type. Whole milk lasts around 5 – 7 days, reduced-fat and skim last 7 days, and lactose-free milk lasts 7 – 10 days.
Brazil nut milk vs milk: Which is better?
It’s hard to conclude which one is “better” when you’re comparing cow’s milk and a non-dairy milk option. In my opinion, brazil nut milk holds its own – almond milk and cashew milk, for example, have milder flavors and thinner textures, while brazil nut milk wins me over with its creamy, thick texture and more unique flavor profile. Cow’s milk reigns supreme in classic cooking and baking, like with mac and cheese and silky chocolate desserts, where its qualities are just essential.
So, what’s better for what purpose? Choose cow’s milk if what you’re making won’t be able to compromise with other milks, and choose brazil nut milk if you want to enhance your dish with a little nuttiness, like exotic coffees and nutty muffins!
FAQs
Whether nut milk or dairy milk is “better” is all a matter of preference. Nut milk is popular because it caters to vegan diets and those who are lactose intolerant. There’s also a range of unique flavors and textures to choose from. However, dairy milk has that classic flavor and creaminess, all while boasting natural proteins, calcium, and essential vitamins. It’s a classic choice for many due to its neutral taste and versatility in cooking and baking.
Brazil nuts might make you happy if you’re a genuine fan of brazil nuts and it’s your favorite snack, but there’s also a nutritional reason why your mood might be boosted after consuming brazil nuts. Brazil nuts are high in selenium, which plays a big role in mood. It’s involved in brain function, and the production of neurotransmitters like serotonin, and good selenium levels are linked to improved mood and reduced feelings of depression.
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