Buttermilk
Description
Buttermilk has a mildly sour, refreshing taste and a smooth, slightly creamy texture with a whitish to creamy hue. The noticeable freshness and subtle acidity make it pleasantly light on the palate, with a delicate milky note instead of the richness of butter. It is relatively low in calories compared to full-fat dairy products, providing protein, calcium, B vitamins, and beneficial probiotic cultures that support gut microbiota and digestion. In the kitchen, it works well in baking (pancakes, cakes, scones), as a base for sauces and dressings, marinades for meats, or as an ingredient in cold soups or smoothies. Store buttermilk in the refrigerator in a tightly sealed bottle, use within 5–7 days of opening, and check the smell before use; freezing is possible, but it may change the texture, so it's better to use it for cooking after thawing.