Can You Microwave Oat Milk? Is it Safe? -

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I took a DNA test recently and found out that I’m 47% lactose intolerant. Then I learned that most adults are lactose intolerant to some extent. I’ve been experimenting with different plant milks ever since.

This week I’ve been drinking oat milk. But one thing that was on my mind was, can you microwave oat milk? Is it similar to microwaving other milks? So, I started researching and experimenting in my own microwave.

Wanna know what I found? Yes, you can microwave oat milk! It’s not a liquid you want to just heat up on high, leave it, and come back to it later. Oat milk can overheat and lose all flavor, consistency, texture, and nutrient profile if you’re not careful!

Today, I’m going show you how to microwave oat milk for the best results, no matter how you may end up using it.

So, read on if you’d like to learn more!

What is Oat Milk? How is it Made?

Oat milk is a dairy-free alternative to cow’s milk. It is made from oats that have been soaked in water, then blended with a little added salt. The resulting milk has a light, creamy texture and a slightly sweet flavor.

Oat milk is a good choice for those with allergies or dietary restrictions, as it is high in fiber and protein, and low in cholesterol. It can be used in place of cow’s milk in most recipes and can also be consumed on its own.

Health Benefits of Oat Milk

Other than being dairy free and safe to drink for those who can’t digest lactose, there are many other health benefits of drinking oat milk!

Great source of fiber. Some of the fiber is lost when processed, but generally still contains 2 to 3 grams.
Helps reduce cholesterol levels. A study published in Annals of Nutrition and Metabolism concluded that drinking oat milk for 4 weeks can help lower cholesterol by 4%.
High in antioxidants. These include avenanthramides, which can help reduce the risk of cancer.
Good source of vitamins and minerals, including calcium, vitamin A, and iron. Even though many of these are lost in processing, many manufacturers will fortify the milk, giving it even more nutritional value.
Low in calories and fat, making it a healthy choice for those watching their weight.
Lactose-free and thus may be a good option for those who are lactose intolerant.
Safe for people with gluten sensitivities, as oats are naturally gluten free.
Helps regulate blood sugar levels. This is due to the fact that oats have a low glycemic index, meaning they are slowly absorbed and don’t cause a spike in blood sugar levels. Just make sure to get the unsweetened version.

Can You Microwave Oat Milk?

Yes, you can absolutely microwave oat milk! It’s just not as simple as putting it in the microwaving, leaving it there for several minutes, and coming back when you feel like it. There are some crucial steps you need to take so you come out with the perfect cup of warm oat milk!

How to Microwave Oat Milk

Here is a step-by-step guide to microwaving oat milk.

Step 1: Preheat the Microwave. Take a glass of water and microwave it for 30 seconds on the highest setting. Just like the oven, we can preheat the microwave. This step allows the microwave to be warm before microwaving the oat milk and keeps some of the moisture in the air.

Step 2: Pour oat milk into a microwave-safe container. Before microwaving anything, ensure the cup or container you’re using is microwave safe. Stay away from plastic, as that can leech chemicals in your milk. Stick to Pyrex, glass, or ceramic materials.

Step 3: Set microwave to lowest setting for 2 minutes. Overheating oat milk will cause it to over-thicken, which may change the consistency and texture. Using the lowest setting on the microwave allows the oat milk to heat up and stay intact and retain vitamins and nutrients.

Step 4: Stir every 15 to 20 seconds. It’s possible to overheat oat milk. This causes a thin film to appear on top of the liquid. It can even start to curdle and thicken up. Oat milk also does not heat evenly. Stirring every 15 to 20 seconds helps distribute the “hot spots” in the milk and keep everything even.

Step 5: Take out and Enjoy! Your oat milk is ready when it has reached your desired temperature or you start to see steam coming from the top layer. Keep the temperature below 130 degrees Fahrenheit to retain the majority of vitamins and nutrients! Use an internal thermometer if necessary.

What Happens to Oat Milk When You Microwave it?

When you microwave oat milk, the water in it begins to evaporate causing a separation between the milk and proteins. If taking precaution and not heating too quickly, this is ok. However, sometimes the below can happen:

Curdling. This can occur if the milk reaches boiling temperatures or exposed to thermal shock. Do not add cold oat milk to hot coffee.
Thin film on top layer. This is normal, but we recommend stirring the milk to distribute the heat throughout the oat milk.

Safety Precautions When Microwaving Oat Milk

Overheating oat milk can cause the bottom of the container to be scorched from the heat. This is why we suggest using the lowest setting possible on the microwave.
Use a microwave-safe container. We suggest Pyrex, glass, or ceramic. Stay away from microwaving plastic, as it can leech chemicals into the oat milk.
Do not leave the oat milk in the microwaving while heating up. Keep stirring it every 15 to 20 seconds to allow the heat to distribute evenly.
Use a low setting. To avoid overheating, use the lowest setting on the microwave.
Microwave oat milk before adding to coffee, otherwise you risk the milk curdling.

Safety or Health Concerns from Microwaving Oat Milk

At the moment there are no safety or health concerns from microwaving oat milk.

FAQs for Can You Microwave Oat Milk?

Can You Microwave Oat Milk for Hot Chocolate?

Yes, you can microwave oat milk for Hot Chocolate. It will give your hot chocolate additional flavor and taste!

Begin by microwaving your oat milk in accordance with the instructions we have listed out above using a microwave safe container. Make sure to use the lowest setting on the microwave, stirring every 15 to 20 seconds until warm. Mix in your hot chocolate mix after!

Can You Microwave Oat Milk for Oatmeal?

Yes, you can microwave oat milk for Oatmeal!

Add the milk to the oatmeal after you’ve microwaved it on low heat. If needed, cover for a few minutes to allow the hot cereal to mix and expand.

Can You Warm Up Oat Milk for a Baby?

No. Babies under 1 year old should never be given oat milk as a replacement to breast milk or formula.

How to Warm Oat Milk Before Bed

Drinking a warm cup of oat milk before bed can help put us to sleep!

Put the oat milk in a microwave-safe container or cup. Put the microwave on the lowest setting and heat up for up to 2 minutes, stirring every 15 to 20 seconds.

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Can You Microwave Oat Milk? Is it Safe?