Donkey Milk vs Almond Milk: The Ultimate Verdict

We’ve got an interesting matchup here today between donkey milk vs almond milk—one is a widely available plant-based dairy alternative found in many coffee shops around the world, and the other is a rare and exotic beverage that’s much more difficult to come by.

But why would someone want to go for donkey milk over traditional cow’s milk? Donkey milk has been used for both medicinal and cosmetic uses for centuries, but are there benefits to it in the kitchen? What about its similarities and differences between almond milk? Ready to find out the verdict? Read on.

Comparing donkey milk vs almond milk

	Donkey milk	Almond milk
Type	Animal-based	Plant-based (nuts)
Allergens	Milk*	Tree nuts
Vegan?	No	Yes
Paleo?	Unknown	Yes
Keto?	Unknown	Yes

* Contains milk protein which may or may not be tolerated by people with a cow’s milk allergy (the most common milk allergy)

Almond milk reigns supreme when it comes to accommodating paleo, vegan, and keto diets, making it a go-to for many. Meanwhile, donkey milk is a bit of a mystery. While it’s certainly not vegan, as it comes from an animal, it’s unknown whether it’s suitable for keto or paleo diets. For those with tree nut allergies, you’ll want to steer clear of almond milk, while donkey milk contains milk proteins, which may or may not be an issue for those with cow’s milk allergies. Note that donkey milk has a higher lactose content than cow’s milk.

Differences between donkey milk and almond milk

Their main differences couldn’t be more obvious: their sources and availability! Almond milk is made from soaked, ground-up almonds, where the liquid is then strained from the almond meal. It is such a popular milk that it comes in a variety of flavors on the market, from unsweetened to chocolate and vanilla. Donkey milk, on the other hand, is milked right from the donkey, giving it an animal origin. As it’s so difficult to find, you can purchase dehydrated donkey milk powder and reconstitute it in water.

Donkey milk and almond milk also differ in flavor and texture. Donkey milk has a milky aroma and a sweet taste that’s ever so slightly tangy and nutty. Its texture is less creamy than cow’s milk but more creamy than almond milk. Almond milk has more of a mild, nutty flavor, with such a thin texture that thickeners are typically added to it.

How to use donkey milk vs almond milk

Donkey milk:

• Experiment with donkey milk cheese recipes.
• Froth to make lavish lattes.
• Add to creamy sauces for an even richer feel.
• Make sweet baked goods like cakes and pastries.
• Enhance creamy soups.

Almond milk:

• Enjoy straight from the glass.
• Substitute in your favorite baking recipes.
• Make vegan ice creams and puddings.
• Create a dairy-free risotto or mac and cheese.
• Make savory sauces with a subtle nutty flavor.

Can you substitute donkey milk for almond milk?

Substituting donkey milk for almond milk and vice versa can get a little tricky. Donkey milk is creamier and slightly more unique in flavor, while almond milk is very thin and mildly nutty, which means these differences are going to affect the results of your dish. 

Nutrition: Donkey milk vs almond milk

Donkey milk is particularly high in carbohydrates, with 18.5g per cup, as well as high in sugar, with 18.5g of total sugars. This is in high contrast to almond milk, which only has 1g of carbs and 0g of sugar per cup. Almond milk is also a lot lower in calories but it also is a milk with one of the lowest protein contents around, which can be a drawback if you’re looking for a protein source.

Donkey milk is lower in fat and cholesterol compared to cow milk, sheep milk, and goat milk, and because it’s higher in whey protein, it contains compounds that can prevent viruses and bacteria. Almond milk has the advantage of providing 45% of your calcium DV, 25% of your vitamin D DV and a great amount of vitamin E, which is said to help combat inflammation and maintain blood, brain, and skin health.

Per 1 cup (237 ml/8 oz.)	Calories	Total fat (sat. fat)	Total carbs	Total sugars (incl. added)	Protein	Calcium	Vit D
Donkey milk	100	0.25 g (0 g)	18.5 g	18.5 (0 g)	4.6 g	18% DV	0% DV
Almond milk	30	2.5 g (0 g)	1 g	0 g	1 g	45% DV	25% DV

How to store donkey milk and almond milk

Pasteurized donkey milk should be stored just like cow milk – in the fridge at all times. If you happen to have raw donkey milk, always make sure to boil the milk before consuming it and consume it within three days. Being shelf-stable, donkey milk powder typically has a shelf life of two years and should be stored in a cool, dry place.

Most cartons of almond milk are shelf-stable until opening and still stay fresh for up to two months. Once opened, store in the fridge and consume within seven days. If you find your almond milk carton in the refrigerated section in the store or are making your own homemade almond milk, store it in the fridge immediately. Consuming homemade almond milk within three days.

Donkey milk vs almond milk: What’s the verdict?

The verdict is clear. Almond milk is a tried-and-true dairy-free favorite that’s versatile and readily available, while donkey milk is a bit of a rare gem that is not easily found but full of potential. For everyday use, almond milk is one of my dependable go-tos. I love it in smoothies and desserts and to add a little nuttiness to recipes. Donkey milk is more of a rarity in my kitchen—I’ve used its powdered form in lattes and baking recipes for some extra pizzazz, but it’s most suitable when you’re feeling adventurous. So, if you happen to get your hands on some donkey milk, get experimenting and see what you can do!

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