Pistachio Milk vs Milk: The Ultimate Verdict

So, you know how we’ve got our classic go-to milk, right? Well, let’s talk about a new contender in town: pistachio milk. Yep, you heard me right – milk made from those little green nuts.

Let’s see how pistachio milk and regular milk compare and find out which is the better choice!

Comparing pistachio milk vs milk

	Pistachio milk	Cow milk (including whole, 2%, skim, etc.)
Type	Plant-based (nut/seed milk)	Animal-based
Common allergens	Tree nut	Milk
Vegan?	Yes	No
Paleo?	Yes	No
Keto?	Could be if made with keto-friendly sweetener (the sole commercial brand we found nutrition info for is sweetened)	No

Pistachio milk is a plant-based milk alternative that’s naturally lactose-free, making it a suitable option for people who are lactose intolerant. While pistachio milk might be a good alternative for those with cow’s milk allergies, it still contains nuts (paleo-friendly).

Most pistachio milk brands are sweetened, so unless it’s made with a keto-friendly sweetener, it’s usually not keto-friendly. Neither is cow’s milk since it’s high in carbs and sugar (lactose and/or added sugar).

Differences between pistachio milk and milk

Pistachio milk is a relatively new and less common dairy milk alternative compared to regular cow’s milk. The primary difference between them lies in their sources.

Pistachio milk is vegan plant-based milk that’s crafted from pistachio nuts, creating a slightly nutty and sweet beverage.

On the other hand, cow’s milk is derived from dairy cows and is a staple in many households, known for its creamy texture and neutral taste.

This fundamental distinction sets the stage for a range of differences in taste, uses, and nutritional content between these two options.

Types of cow’s milk

Alright, let’s have a quick moo-ment to talk about the various cow’s milk options out there:

Whole milk: Creamy and rich, boasting a luxurious 3.5% milk fat.

2% milk (reduced-fat): A lighter option with 2% milk fat, perfect for those watching their fat intake.

1% milk (low-fat): Skimming down to 1% milk fat without skimping on taste.

Skim milk (non-fat): Zero percent milk fat for the calorie-conscious.

Lactose-free milk: Made for those with lactose intolerance, providing the goodness without the tummy troubles.

Raw cow milk (whole): Straight from the udder, a farm-fresh option that some swear by.

Flavored milk: Chocolate, strawberry, vanilla – a sweet twist on the classic.

How to use pistachio milk vs milk

So, how do you use pistachio milk? Is it like regular milk? Yes and no…

Pistachio milk is a little sweet and froths well (better than other alternative milks such as almond milk), so I prefer using it on coffee and matcha, as well as baking. However, you can use it in savory dishes too.

I find regular milk is slightly more versatile for cooking, baking, or drinking on its own!

Here’s some specific ideas on how to use each:

Pistachio milk:

• Coffee and matcha beverages (steams and froths like a dream!)
• Substitute for milk or half and half in baking recipes (cake, French toast, banana bread)
• Creamy soups
• Mashed potatoes
• Mac ‘n’ cheese
• Smoothie base
• Vegan ice cream base

Milk:

• Dunk cookies
• Pancake and waffle batter
• Creamy soups
• Creamy mashed potatoes
• Mac ‘n’ cheese
• Scrambled eggs
• Homemade yogurt
• Milkshakes

Can you substitute pistachio milk for milk?

Absolutely, you can substitute pistachio milk for regular cow’s milk in many recipes. However, keep in mind that pistachio milk has a unique flavor that may not work well in all recipes. It pairs particularly well with desserts, smoothies, and dishes where a nutty flavor complements the overall taste.

In addition, many commercial pistachio milks contain added sugars. Be aware of the sweetness level and adjust the amount of sugar or sweeteners in your recipe if needed.

Another thing is curdling… Some plant-based milks, including pistachio milk, may curdle when heated or mixed with acidic ingredients. To prevent curdling, consider using a stabilizer like cornstarch or avoiding high-heat cooking.

Nutrition: Pistachio milk vs milk

Pistachio milk, made from blended pistachios and water, tends to have fewer calories and less fat, with lower protein content and varying calcium levels. It may also be fortified with vitamins like D and B12. It’s important to note that pistachio milk usually has more added sugar compared to cow milk, which is naturally sweet.

In contrast, cow’s milk is richer in calories, fat, protein, and calcium.

Remember to read product labels for accurate information, as variations exist among brands.

Here’s a general comparison of how 1 cup of pistachio milk compares to the main types of cow’s milk:

Per cup (237 ml/8 oz.)	Calories	Total fat (sat. fat)	Total carbs	Total sugars (incl. added)	Protein	Calcium	Vit D
Pistachio milk	80	3.5 g (0 g)	9 g	7 g (6 g)	2 g	2% DV	0% DV
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 (0g)	8 g	25% DV	10% DV
Skim milk (nonfat milk)	90	0 g	13 g	12 g (0 g)	8 g	30% DV	25% DV

How to store pistachio milk and milk

Cow’s milk is susceptible to spoilage and should always be refrigerated. Store-bought pistachio milk is a bit more stable. It usually comes in cartons that can be stored in a cool place like your pantry. When you’re reading to drink them, pop them in the fridge! Use opened pistachio milk within around 7-10 days.

Unopened cow’s milk can stay fresh for about 5 to 7 days past its “sell-by” date, and once opened, it’s best to consume it within 5 to 7 days.

Always refer to the packaging and follow proper storage guidelines to ensure the safety and taste of each of these products.

Pistachio milk vs milk: The ultimate verdict

Finally, I’ve reached my decision: pistachio milk is one of the best plant-based milk alternatives for coffee and tea. It can even step in for baking and cookie recipes when you need it. However, store-bought pistachio milk is usually sweetened, which can limit how you can use it if it tastes really sweet. That’s why dairy milk is ultimately better for cooking and baking.

If milk isn’t your jam, check out some of the best alternatives to cow milk (including plant-based options).

FAQs:

Links on this page may be affiliate links, for which the site earns a small commission, but the price for you is the same