Nut or Seed Milk for Smoothies

This recipe is from Fit for Life; I've been using it for years as the basis for no-frills smoothies because it adds healthful creaminess without dairy or soy (both of which I like, BTW). Toasted nuts can be used in a pinch (as long as they're not salted) but the best and most healthful results are obtained with raw nuts. Keep in mind that buying from a bulk bin is probably cheaper and that pieces are even more cost-effective. Whole almonds or seeds can be soaked in the water overnight before blending, which is supposed to increase their bioavailability. You can get creative with this by blending different varieties; it's also good to try to imagine which nuts will complement your other ingredients (walnuts, for example, complement blueberries nicely). And of course, those who are sensitive to nuts should avoid this recipe.

• Ready In: 8 hrs 10 mins
• Serves: 1
• Yields: 1 cup (if strained)

Ingredients

• 1⁄4-1⁄3 cup  raw  nuts or 1⁄4-1⁄3 cup  seeds, any kind
• 1  cup water (if using bottled juice, go for "natural" brands, if only because they usually taste better) or 1  cup  juice (if using bottled juice, go for "natural" brands, if only because they usually taste better)

Directions

1. If using water and whole nuts/seeds, soak overnight (optional).
2. Blend until very smooth and strain, if desired.
3. I use this for smoothies, hence I've never strained it--I think it's more healthful left as-is, but straining is probably a good idea for those who wish to use this as a milk substitute, e.g., as a topping for cereal; I imagine some use could be found for the pulp. Natural sweetener, i.e., honey; dehydrated cane juice; agave nectar, can be added to taste (I'd start with a teaspoon or less).
4. Since I posted this, I've come to realize that upping the nuts/seeds to 1/3 cup and straining if using the milk for drinking plain makes REALLY decadent milks. Also, a nut milk bag is useful; eBay has at least one seller with very reasonably priced food-grade nylon bags for this purpose.