What is Ovaltine Powder Made Of?
Before deciding how to prepare your drink, it's important to know what's in the powder itself. Contrary to a common misconception, Ovaltine is not a simple flavored powder. Many of its core ingredients are dairy-based. For example, the U.S. Classic Malt variety lists sugar, whey, and nonfat milk as primary ingredients. Other versions sold internationally also contain milk powder or condensed milk permeate. This means that for those with a dairy allergy or seeking a vegan drink, Ovaltine is not suitable in its standard formulation.
The Malted Core
At its heart, Ovaltine is a malted drink. Malt extract, derived from barley, is a key ingredient and is responsible for its distinctive, slightly nutty flavor. This malt component is what historically made Ovaltine a nutritious supplement, prized for its natural vitamins and carbohydrates. The recipe has evolved over decades, with different regional variations existing worldwide, but the malt remains a constant.
The Classic Preparation: Ovaltine with Milk
For the richest, creamiest, and most classic Ovaltine experience, milk is the recommended liquid. Mixing the powder with dairy milk enhances its flavor profile and creates a smooth texture that water simply cannot replicate. The added calcium and protein from the milk also boosts the nutritional value, aligning with Ovaltine's original purpose as a health supplement.
Preparing Hot or Cold Ovaltine with Milk
For a Hot Mug:
- Measure 4 tablespoons of Ovaltine powder into your mug.
- Heat 8 ounces of milk in a microwave or saucepan until hot, but not boiling.
- Pour the hot milk into the mug and stir well until the powder is fully dissolved.
- Enjoy a warm, comforting malted drink.
For a Cold Glass:
- Add 4 tablespoons of Ovaltine powder to a glass.
- Pour 8 ounces of cold milk over the powder.
- Stir vigorously or use a whisk to dissolve the powder completely, as it can be more resistant to mixing in cold liquid.
- For extra flavor, blend with ice cream to make a classic malted milkshake.
Making Ovaltine with Water
While not the traditional method, you can make Ovaltine using water. However, it's important to set your expectations for the finished product. Without the milk solids to provide body, the resulting drink will be significantly thinner and less creamy. The flavor may also taste less balanced, as the richness of the milk helps to mellow the sweetness and the malt.
For those who prefer or need to avoid milk, using water is an option, but it often works best when supplemented. Some recipes suggest adding other ingredients to thicken or enrich the drink, such as a splash of evaporated milk or sweetener, but this defeats the purpose of avoiding dairy. For a simple water-based drink, you can prepare it much like instant hot chocolate, but the result will not be a classic malted milk.
The Rise of Milk Alternatives
For those who are lactose intolerant or following a vegan diet, using plant-based milk alternatives is an excellent option. Ovaltine, in its powder form, can be mixed with various alternatives to achieve a texture similar to traditional milk-based preparations.
How to use Plant-Based Milk
- Pour 8 ounces of your preferred plant-based milk, such as almond, soy, or rice milk, into a mug or glass.
- Add 4 tablespoons of Ovaltine powder.
- Heat or chill as desired, and stir well.
- Expect a taste that is slightly different, as the plant-based milk adds its own unique flavor notes to the final drink. This can sometimes create an interesting and enjoyable new profile.
Comparison: Milk vs. Water for Ovaltine
| Feature | Made with Milk | Made with Water |
|---|---|---|
| Taste | Rich, creamy, balanced, and classic malty flavor. | Thinner, less rich, with a stronger, sometimes unbalanced malt/sugar flavor. |
| Texture | Smooth, full-bodied, and satisfyingly creamy. | Lighter, thinner, and can feel watery. |
| Nutrition | Enhanced with protein, calcium, and vitamins from the dairy milk. | Lacks the nutritional benefits provided by dairy milk; relies only on the powder's inherent vitamins. |
| Versatility | Excellent for hot drinks, cold drinks, and milkshakes. | Best for simple hot drinks, but can be used cold. Not suitable for creamy shakes. |
| Best for | Those seeking the classic, indulgent Ovaltine experience. | Individuals who prefer a less rich, simpler flavor, or those needing to avoid dairy (if using a different recipe). |
Conclusion
While it is technically possible to make Ovaltine with water, the classic and recommended preparation involves using milk. The powder contains milk solids, and the addition of milk is crucial for achieving the rich, creamy, and nutritionally enhanced beverage for which Ovaltine is known. Using milk alternatives provides a happy medium for those avoiding dairy, offering a creamy texture without compromising the overall flavor as significantly as water does. Ultimately, the choice depends on your preference for taste and your dietary needs. For a truly authentic Ovaltine experience, stick with milk, whether dairy or plant-based.
For more history and product information, check out Ovaltine's official site: https://ovaltine.com.au/blogs/about-us/ovaltine-a-history.
