This Inexpensive Foamer Is My Favorite Way to Mix Protein Powder.
Protein shakes can turn out lumpy if not mixed properly. That’s why a shaker works better for mixing whey protein powder into milk than simply stirring with a spoon. A blender works even better if you’re prepared to clean it after use. But there’s a better option: a handheld frother .
To be clear, this is for drinks where you mix powder with liquid. (If you want to add ice and fruit to your protein shake—a smoothie, not just a drink—you’ll still need a blender. But you already know that.) As far as I can tell, it works with any powder and any liquid. I tested the frother and found it produces excellent results with the following products:
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Collagen powder and coffee (or tea)
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Whey powder and water
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Clear serum and water
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Hot cocoa and milk
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Various powdered additives, well, in everything under the sun
Oddly enough, this didn’t occur to me. Supplement companies like MUD\WTR and Beam include handheld foamers in their starter kits. In fact, the only reason I even own a foamer is because MUD\WTR once sent me one along with a few samples in hopes that I would review the product. (My review: I didn’t like it .)
How to use a foamer to mix protein powder
To start, get yourself a milk frother. These simple, portable devices cost about the same as a shaker, between $7 and $10, but expensive coffee accessories can be prohibitive. For our purposes, even the cheapest ones will do. Choose one that runs on AA batteries or is rechargeable via USB .
Next, prepare the liquid. Use a larger container the first time. The liquid will rise when you turn on the frother. But if you use, say, 240 ml of liquid in a 470 ml container, you’ll avoid an unexpected mess.
Add the powder to the liquid, insert the frother, and turn it on. (If you’re using clear whey , which tends to clog the frother, it’s best to insert the frother first and then add the powder.) If you hold the frother in the center of the cup, you’ll create a vortex effect that will push the liquid to the edge of the container (or spill it over), hence my warning. After a few tries, you’ll figure out how to do this with less mess. Angle the frother and press it against the side of the cup helps reduce ripples. You can also pulse the frother a few times instead of running it continuously, which will further reduce ripples.
It only takes five to ten seconds to prepare a smooth, creamy protein shake, hot cocoa, or any other drink your connoisseur heart desires. Spend a few more seconds cleaning the frother; a quick rinse with a soapy sponge under running water is usually sufficient. Then, enjoy your perfectly prepared drink, and all you have to do is clean the glass.