Indulge Your Sweet Craving in a Delicious Comfort Drink

Part-shake, part-creamy beverage, when I crave a sweet comfort drink, I quickly blend up a batch of my favorite (and healthy) sesame seed drink.

Sesame seeds are chockfull of nutrients. These tiny seeds contain important minerals like zinc, calcium, phosphorus, magnesium, iron and potassium as well as protein and healthy fats. For those avoiding cow’s milk, sesame seeds are an excellent source of calcium. And for vegans who are often at risk for not getting enough zinc, sesame seeds contain a healthy dose of this much needed mineral.

One tablespoon of whole sesame seeds contains about 50 calories, 2 grams of protein, about 2 grams of fiber and 4 grams of fat. But sesame seeds retain more of the nutrients when they are eaten whole and unhulled rather than toasted.

Here’s what you’ll need:

• 1 cup of sesame seeds
• 2 cups of water Soak 1 cup of seeds in 2 cups of water overnight.

In the morning, strain the seeds then add 2 cups fresh water before blending. Blend in a blender or food processor for 5 minutes or until your desired consistency. This nutty drink will keep in your refrigerator for 2-3 days.

For those who like a sweeter milk, add 1 tablespoon honey or 2-3 dates and 1/4-teaspoon salt. I prefer agave or maple syrup or the natural taste of plain sesame seed milk.

If you want to experiment with other kinds of nut milks, follow the same process with your favorite nut. For instance, you can grind flax, pumpkin, or sesame seeds very fine and stir into your liquid meal to stabilize your blood sugar.

Enjoy as you drink to your health!