1 Fl Oz Buttermilk (Lowfat, Cultured) is a popular dairy product that is often used in cooking and baking. At just 12 calories per 1 Fl Oz serving, buttermilk is a healthy addition to any diet.
Nutritionally, buttermilk is a good source of protein, calcium, and vitamin D. It also contains probiotics, which are beneficial for gut health. In this article, we'll explore the many uses and health benefits of buttermilk, and provide tips for incorporating it into your diet and recipes.
Whether you're a health-conscious cook or looking for an alternative to regular milk, buttermilk is a versatile ingredient that can be used in a variety of ways.
A 1 Fl Oz serving of low-fat cultured buttermilk contains 12 calories, 2g of carbohydrates, 0g of fat, 1g of protein, 10% of the recommended daily allowance (RDA) of calcium, and 25% of the RDA of vitamin D. Buttermilk is also a good source of probiotics, which are beneficial for gut health. These friendly bacteria help boost the immune system, improve digestion, and reduce inflammation in the body.
Health Benefits of Buttermilk
In addition to its nutritional content, buttermilk has several health benefits. The probiotics in buttermilk can help improve gut health and boost the immune system. Drinking buttermilk regularly may also help reduce the risk of certain digestive disorders. Buttermilk is also low in calories and fat, making it a good option for weight management. It contains lactic acid, which helps improve skin health and can reduce the appearance of blemishes and wrinkles.
Uses of Buttermilk
Buttermilk is a versatile ingredient that can be used in a variety of ways. It is often used as a substitute for regular milk in recipes, and can be used to make pancakes, waffles, and other baked goods. Buttermilk can also be used to marinate meats, as it helps tenderize them and adds a tangy flavor. In addition to cooking and baking, buttermilk can also be used as a refreshing drink. It can be enjoyed on its own, or mixed with other ingredients to make a smoothie or shake.
Difference Between Buttermilk and Regular Milk
While buttermilk and regular milk are both dairy products, there are several differences between them. Buttermilk is thicker and tangier than regular milk, and has a slightly sour taste. It is also lower in fat and calories than regular milk, and contains probiotics that are not found in regular milk. Regular milk, on the other hand, is a good source of calcium, vitamin D, and other nutrients. It has a mild taste and is often used as a base for smoothies, cereal, and coffee.
How to Make Buttermilk
Buttermilk can be made at home using just two ingredients: milk and vinegar or lemon juice. To make 1 cup of buttermilk, simply add 1 tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice to 1 cup of milk, and let it sit for a few minutes until it thickens and curdles. Alternatively, you can buy buttermilk at most grocery stores. Look for low-fat, cultured buttermilk for the best nutritional content.
Buttermilk in Baking
Buttermilk is a popular ingredient in baking, as it helps tenderize baked goods and adds a tangy flavor. It is often used in recipes for pancakes, waffles, biscuits, and cornbread. When using buttermilk in baking, it is important to remember that it is more acidic than regular milk. This means that you may need to adjust the amount of baking powder or soda in the recipe to avoid a sour taste.
Buttermilk as a Marinade
Buttermilk is a popular ingredient in meat marinades, as it helps tenderize the meat and adds a tangy flavor. To make a buttermilk marinade, simply mix buttermilk with your favorite herbs, spices, and seasonings, and let the meat soak in the marinade for a few hours before cooking. Buttermilk can be used to marinate chicken, pork, beef, and even fish. It is particularly good for tougher cuts of meat, as it helps break down the connective tissues and makes the meat more tender.
Buttermilk in Smoothies
Buttermilk can be used in smoothies to add a tangy flavor and creamy texture. It pairs well with fruits like strawberries, blueberries, and peaches, as well as greens like spinach and kale. To make a buttermilk smoothie, simply blend buttermilk with your favorite fruits and vegetables, and sweeten with honey or maple syrup if desired.
Buttermilk for Gut Health
Buttermilk contains probiotics, which are beneficial for gut health. These friendly bacteria help improve digestion, boost the immune system, and reduce inflammation in the body. Drinking buttermilk regularly may also help reduce the risk of certain digestive disorders, such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and inflammatory bowel disease (IBD).
Popular Brands of Buttermilk
There are many brands of buttermilk available at grocery stores and supermarkets. Some popular brands include Organic Valley, Horizon Organic, and Alta Dena. When choosing buttermilk, look for low-fat, cultured buttermilk for the best nutritional content. Avoid flavored buttermilk, as it is often high in sugar and artificial flavors.
Buttermilk is a versatile ingredient that can be used in a variety of ways.
Frequently Asked Questions about Lowfat Cultured Buttermilk
1. How many calories are in one fluid ounce of lowfat cultured buttermilk?
One fluid ounce of lowfat cultured buttermilk contains 12 calories.
2. What is lowfat cultured buttermilk?
Lowfat cultured buttermilk is a dairy product made from skim or low-fat milk that has been fermented with lactic acid bacteria. It is thicker than regular milk and has a tangy, sour taste.
3. What are the nutritional benefits of lowfat cultured buttermilk?
Lowfat cultured buttermilk is a good source of calcium, protein, and vitamin D. It is also a probiotic food, meaning it contains beneficial bacteria that can promote a healthy digestive system.
4. How can I use lowfat cultured buttermilk in cooking?
Lowfat cultured buttermilk can be used in a variety of recipes, from baked goods to salad dressings. It can also be used as a marinade for meats or as a base for smoothies.
5. How should I store lowfat cultured buttermilk?
Lowfat cultured buttermilk should be stored in the refrigerator and consumed within a week of opening. It can also be frozen in an airtight container for up to three months.