What Does Buttermilk Taste Like: We Have The Answer To Your Question
Buttermilk is a popular ingredient that is often incorporated in pancakes, bread, onion, dressings, and chicken, among others. Many of you might think that it tastes like a combination of milk and butter, but in reality, its flavor is nowhere close to such. In fact, it is not even made from milk and butter.
So, what does buttermilk taste like? If you have been always curious about the answer, keep on reading and we’ll let you know. Many of you may have tried buttermilk in the past, but as an ingredient in different recipes and not straight up.
What Is Buttermilk?
Before we discuss its complex flavor, let us first talk about what exactly it is. As it has been earlier mentioned, it is not a combination of butter and milk. Rather, it is made from the liquid that is left after butter is produced. Through a process called churning, buttermilk can be extracted from butter. This is the traditional way buttermilk is made.
The ones that are currently available in supermarkets, however, are created through a different process. Rather, it is fermented low-fat milk. Non-harmful bacteria are added not only as a way of preserving it, but also for giving it a distinct sour flavor. Thickening agents and salt will also be present.
What Does Buttermilk Taste Like?
As it has been mentioned above, there are basically two types of buttermilk. The first one is made through the traditional method, which is seldom seen today. The other one is what we usually see being sold commercially. Their specific flavor will vary depending on their specific type.
To put it in a general sense, however, buttermilk tastes sour and tangy. This will remind you very much of yogurt. If you taste the traditional buttermilk, you might end up almost vomiting. Those that are store-bought, on the other hand, will have a more tolerable flavor.
Because those that are bought in stores are made using milk and not end-products of butter, you can expect that they will taste sweeter instead of sour. Its flavor will depend on the specific brand that you will choose.
Health Benefits Of Buttermilk
While many may not like the taste of buttermilk when it is consumed straight rather than being incorporated in different recipes, you might have a different perspective after learning more about the health benefits that it can deliver. The following are some of the reasons why it is good for your health:
- Calcium: One of the good things about buttermilk is that it can help in making sure that you will have healthier and stronger bones. This will make you less susceptible to osteoporosis and other problems related to the weakening of the bones.
- Protein: This is an excellent addition to your diet if you are looking for an alternative source of protein. This will be critical in the repair and maintenance of your tissues. It is vital in improving the strength of your skin, muscles, and bones.
- Riboflavin: Also known as Vitamin B2, this will play a crucial role in the activation of enzymes in your cells. One of the things that it can do for the body is to supply more energy, and hence, making you more productive. This also helps to flush out toxins.
Aside from those that have been mentioned above, it can also be helpful in boosting the immune system, promoting healthy digestion, making your skin glowing, improving cardiovascular health, regulating blood pressure, combating acidity, fighting dehydration, and washing down fats, among other benefits.
Using Buttermilk In The Kitchen
There are different ways to use buttermilk in the kitchen. You can easily integrate it with different recipes. Some of the best ways to make use of it include the following:
- Smoothies: For weight-watchers and health-conscious people, it can be a great addition to your flavorful smoothies. It has protein and can wash away fat, making it an excellent choice.
- Mashed Potatoes: This is an easy recipe for buttermilk. All that you have to do is to boil potatoes, add spinach, and mash it with buttermilk. To make it taste even better, add bacon on the top.
- Pancake: A traditional pancake is made using whole milk. Alternatively, you might want to consider using buttermilk. Combine one cup of buttermilk with one teaspoon of baking soda to make your pancakes fluffier than the usual.
- Salad Dressing: If you like the tangy taste of buttermilk, it will also make an excellent choice for your salad dressing. It has a strong flavor that will surely complement your greens.
- Chicken: Another popular use for buttermilk is as a marinade for chicken, which will make an excellent choice for a tenderizer. To make it more flavorful, rub the chicken with herbs and spices, which will also make it more aromatic.
Conclusion
Now that you are done reading this post, we hope that you have learned a thing or two about what does buttermilk taste like. If you want to be refreshed about the discussions above, here is a quick summary:
- Traditional buttermilk is made from the end-products of butter through a process known as churning. Commercial buttermilk, on the other hand, is made from fermented low-fat milk, combined with non-harmful bacteria, among other ingredients.
- The taste of traditional buttermilk will be tangy and sour. Store-bought buttermilk, on the other hand, will have a mild sweetness.
- Even if you don’t like its taste, its health benefits might change your perspective. It is an excellent source of riboflavin, protein, and calcium. It can improve digestion, fight acidity, reduce blood pressure, and regulate blood sugar, among other benefits.
Did you enjoy reading this post? Have you tried buttermilk below? How did it taste like? Feel free to leave a comment below.