Yes, a Vitamix blender can easily make soy milk by blending soaked soybeans with water and then straining the mixture for a smooth texture.
Yes, your Vitamix can make delicious homemade soy milk with the right technique. This powerful blender transforms soaked soybeans into creamy plant-based milk in minutes. Unlike store-bought versions, homemade soy milk lets you control ingredients and avoid additives.
Why Make Soy Milk in a Vitamix?
Vitamix blenders excel at creating smooth, pulp-free soy milk thanks to their high-powered motors and sharp blades. The blender’s ability to thoroughly pulverize soybeans means you get maximum nutrition from every bean. Compared to cold press juicers, a Vitamix offers faster preparation with easier cleanup.
Key Advantages:
- No need for specialized soy milk machines
- Customizable sweetness and flavor
- Preserves more nutrients than store-bought versions
- Creates richer texture than most budget blenders
Step-by-Step Vitamix Soy Milk Recipe
Ingredients:
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Dried soybeans | 1 cup (180g) |
| Water | 4 cups (960ml) |
| Dates or sweetener (optional) | 2-3 pitted dates |
| Vanilla extract (optional) | 1 tsp |
Instructions:
1. Soak the Soybeans
Rinse 1 cup dried soybeans and soak in water for 8-12 hours. The beans will double in size. Drain and rinse thoroughly.
2. Cook the Beans
Steam or boil soaked beans for 15 minutes until tender. This removes the “beany” taste and improves digestibility.
3. Blend with Water
Combine cooked beans with 4 cups fresh water in your Vitamix. For best results, use the soup program or blend on high for 2 minutes.
4. Strain (Optional)
For ultra-smooth milk, strain through a nut milk bag or fine mesh sieve. The leftover pulp (okara) can be used in baking.
5. Flavor and Store
Add sweeteners or vanilla if desired. Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 5 days. Shake well before use as separation is normal.
Pro Tips for Perfect Soy Milk
Texture Adjustments
For thicker milk, use a 1:3 bean-to-water ratio. For lighter milk, increase to 1:5. According to Spindles and Spices, blending with boiling water creates a creamier texture without straining.
Flavor Variations
- Add cinnamon or cocoa powder
- Blend with almonds for a nutty flavor
- Include a pinch of sea salt to enhance sweetness
Equipment Notes
While any Vitamix model works, those with glass containers prevent odor absorption. The stainless steel containers also work well for hot blending.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Foaming Over
Never fill your Vitamix more than halfway when making soy milk. The blending process creates significant foam. Start on low speed and gradually increase to high.
Gritty Texture
If your milk feels gritty, try these fixes:
- Soak beans longer (up to 24 hours)
- Blend in smaller batches
- Strain through multiple layers of cheesecloth
Short Shelf Life
Homemade soy milk lasts 3-5 days refrigerated. For longer storage:
- Freeze in ice cube trays for smoothies
- Bring to a boil before storing to kill bacteria
- Add a pinch of salt as a natural preservative
Nutritional Benefits
Vitamix-prepared soy milk retains more nutrients than commercial versions. A 1-cup serving provides:
- 7g plant-based protein
- 4g healthy fats
- 300mg calcium (when fortified)
- Isoflavones that may support heart health
According to Vitamix’s official recipe, their blending method helps release more nutrients from the soybeans compared to traditional preparation methods.
Creative Uses for Homemade Soy Milk
In Coffee Drinks
The creamy texture makes perfect lattes without curdling like some nut milks.
For Baking
Substitute 1:1 for dairy milk in cakes, muffins and pancakes.
In Smoothies
Adds creaminess and protein to anti-inflammatory smoothies.
As Soup Base
Creates rich, dairy-free cream soups when blended with vegetables.
