Chef Nishant Choubey shares his favourite caramelised American pecan with almond milk and oats smoothie

This smoothie was born out of a quiet morning in the hills — when the chill called for comfort, but the body craved balance. As a chef, I was looking forward to sip awesomeness with almond milk since my vegan friend was hungry and the nutty aroma of caramelised pecans reminded me of festive kitchens while the almond milk and oats rooted the drink in everyday wellness.

It bridges indulgence and intention: a sip of warmth and memory, yet packed with plant-powered goodness. It’s for those who believe healthy shouldn’t be boring and luxury shouldn’t be heavy.

Caramelised American pecan with almond milk and oats smoothie

Ingredients (serves 2)

American pecan                             ½ cup

Brown sugar (or jaggery)             2 tbsp

Water                                                1 tbsp

Rolled oats                                     ¼ cup

Almond milk (unsweetened)        One and half cup

Banana (ripe, optional)                ½

Cinnamon powder (optional)      A pinch

Ice cubes                                           As needed

Method

Caramelise the American pecans: In a non-stick pan, toast pecans lightly. Add brown sugar and a splash of water. Stir until these are glazed and slightly sticky. Cool and set aside a few for garnish.

Prepare the base: Soak oats in almond milk for 10 minutes (or overnight for better digestion).

Blend it all: In a blender, add soaked oats with almond milk, banana (if using), cinnamon, ice cubes, and most of the caramelised pecans. Blend until smooth and creamy.

Serve: Pour into glasses, top with the reserved pecans. Dust with cinnamon or drizzle a little maple syrup if desired.

Chef’s Notes:

Vegan. Gluten-free. Refined sugar-free if you use jaggery or khand.

Substitute almond milk with oat, cashew or coconut milk but still keep it vegan.

— Author of 'Stay with Indus', Chef Nishant Choubey is Consulting Chef for Michelin Plated Indus (Bangkok) and Corporate Chef of Seinan Group (Tokyo). He also won Independent Chef of the Year Award for 2024