Non-Dairy Coffee Alternatives: Finding the Best Pairing for Your Favorite Coffee
Good Morning Sailors! Most of us have a coffee in our hands at this point of the morning, and while some hardcore coffee lovers prefer their morning cup as dark as the depths of the ocean, others like a lighter, creamier drink. In more recent years, we have been exploring the world of non-dairy milk instead of the traditional cream.
Non-dairy milk is a great alternative for those who are lactose intolerant or vegan, and also it can be a healthier option for people with dairy sensitivities. It's made from plants like soybeans, almonds, coconuts, hazelnuts, rice, and oats. There are plenty of options to choose from - almond milk, coconut milk, etc. When you're deciding which one to use in your coffee or tea there are many factors that come into play besides just flavor profile! Here we will explore the different types of non-dairy milk and how they pair best with various coffees based on their flavor profiles!
One of the most popular non-dairy milk options is almond milk, which has a nutty taste. It pairs well with both dark roast or light roast coffees because it helps to cut out some of the acidity in darker roasts while balancing brighter notes in lighter ones. Almond milk also works great for any type of latte, mocha, or cappuccino.
Another popular option is soy milk which has a nutty taste similar to almond milk but not as pronounced. Soy pairs well with darker roasts because it can cut through some of the acidity while also pairing nicely with sweeter notes in lighter roasts. It's great for all types of coffee drinks but works best in something like a latte or mocha.
Need a creamier non-dairy solution? Coconut milk may be your best option! Its creamy texture and sweet flavor pair well with both lighter roast coffees as well as some medium roasts because it can balance out the acidity of darker ones while bringing forward sweeter notes in lighter roasts. Coconut milk can be used as a substitute for cream in most coffee drinks and it also makes an excellent matcha latte!
Finally, we have hemp seed which is made from the seeds of the cannabis plant but don't worry - it won't make you high! Hemp has a slightly nutty flavor and works best with both lighter and medium roast coffees because it can bring out sweeter notes while also being able to cut through the acidity. It's a great option for lattes and cappuccinos but can be used in pretty much any coffee drink you prefer!
These are just a few types of non-dairy milk that the Salty Sailor Crew enjoys. If you have a favorite variety of non-dairy milk, let us know!