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Unsalted Buttermilk
Dairy
Nutri-ScoreA

Unsalted Buttermilk

Buttermilk (from cow's milk)

Clinical Encyclopedia

Unsalted buttermilk is a fermented dairy product that is low in fat and rich in probiotics, making it beneficial for gut health. It is often used in cooking and baking for its tangy flavor and moisture.

Also known as:
buttermilk (USA)chaas (India)laban (Middle East)
Scientific NameButtermilk (from cow's milk)
Region of OriginIndia

Macronutrient Ratio

Caloric distribution of primary energy metrics per 100g

Calories40 kcal
Water
91%
Fiber0g
Total9.1g
Protein
3.3g(36%)
Fats
1g(11%)
Carbohydrates
4.8g(53%)

Micronutrient DV% Score

Top vitamins and minerals ranked by percentage of Daily Recommended Value

Vitamins (DV%)
Minerals (DV%)

Complete Micronutrient Breakdown

Detailed concentration of essential micronutrients per 100g serving.

Vitamins

Major Source (≥ 2% DV)
Vitamin b1 (thiamine)0.02 mg (2%)
Vitamin b2 (riboflavin)0.1 mg (8%)
Vitamin b5 (pantothenic acid)0.3 mg (6%)
Vitamin b6 (pyridoxine)0.02 mg (2%)
Vitamin B120.4 mcg (17%)
Choline15 mg (3%)
Vitamins with less than 2% DV
Vitamin A: 0.5 mgVitamin C: 0 mgVitamin D: 0 mgVitamin E: 0.1 mgVitamin K: 0.2 mcgVitamin b3 (niacin): 0.1 mgFolate: 5 mcg

Minerals

Major Source (≥ 2% DV)
Calcium120 mg (12%)
Magnesium10 mg (2%)
Phosphorus90 mg (7%)
Potassium150 mg (4%)
Zinc0.4 mg (4%)
Copper0.02 mg (2%)
Selenium1 mcg (2%)
Minerals with less than 2% DV
Iron: 0.1 mgManganese: 0.01 mg

Health Benefits

Rich in probiotics, unsalted buttermilk supports digestive health by promoting a healthy gut microbiome.
It is a good source of calcium and vitamin B12, which are essential for bone health and energy metabolism.

Possible Risks & Side Effects

!No clinically significant precautions or contraindications have been documented for this food in standard dietary intake.

How to Prepare & Consume

Unsalted buttermilk can be used in salad dressings, marinades, and baked goods. It can also be consumed as a refreshing drink.

Smart Selection & Storage

How to Select

Choose buttermilk that is fresh, with a clean smell and no lumps. Check the expiration date.

How to Store

Keep buttermilk refrigerated and tightly sealed. Consume within a week for optimal freshness.

Medicinal Profile & Bioactive Compounds

Therapeutic properties, key bioactive compounds, and clinical applications of this food.

Medicinal Properties
Probiotic, Digestive, Hydrating
Main Applications
Digestive health improvement
Culinary uses in baking and cooking
Bioactive Compounds
Lactic acid

Promotes gut health and aids in digestion.

How to Consume
Fresh, in smoothies, as a drink, in cooking
Did you know?

"Buttermilk was traditionally used as a remedy for indigestion and is still valued for its probiotic content."

Myths vs Realities

MythButtermilk is only for cooking.
RealityButtermilk can also be consumed as a refreshing drink and has numerous health benefits.
MythButtermilk is high in fat.
RealityUnsalted buttermilk is low in fat and can be a healthy addition to your diet.
MythAll buttermilk is the same.
RealityThere are different types of buttermilk, including cultured and traditional, each with unique properties.

Healthy Recipes

Buttermilk Quinoa Salad

A refreshing quinoa salad enhanced with creamy buttermilk dressing, packed with veggies and protein for a nutritious meal.

Ingredients
  • 1 cup cooked quinoa
  • 1/2 cup unsalted buttermilk
  • 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1/4 cup cucumber, diced
  • 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
  • 1/4 cup bell pepper, diced
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. In a large bowl, combine cooked quinoa, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, and bell pepper.
  2. 2. In a separate bowl, whisk together buttermilk, olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
  3. 3. Pour the dressing over the salad, toss well, and serve chilled.

Buttermilk Pancakes with Blueberries

Fluffy pancakes made with unsalted buttermilk and fresh blueberries, perfect for a healthy breakfast or brunch.

Ingredients
  • 1 cup whole wheat flour
  • 1 cup unsalted buttermilk
  • 1 large egg
  • 2 tablespoons honey
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/2 cup fresh blueberries
  • Cooking spray or oil for the pan
Instructions
  1. 1. In a bowl, mix flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
  2. 2. In another bowl, whisk buttermilk, egg, and honey together.
  3. 3. Combine wet and dry ingredients, then gently fold in blueberries. Cook on a heated skillet until golden brown.

Buttermilk Herb Dressing

A creamy and tangy herb dressing made with unsalted buttermilk, perfect for drizzling over salads or grilled vegetables.

Ingredients
  • 1 cup unsalted buttermilk
  • 1/4 cup Greek yogurt
  • 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. In a bowl, combine buttermilk, Greek yogurt, dill, parsley, lemon juice, and garlic.
  2. 2. Whisk until smooth and well combined.
  3. 3. Season with salt and pepper, then refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.

Buttermilk Banana Bread

A moist and fluffy banana bread made with unsalted buttermilk, perfect for a healthy snack or breakfast treat.

Ingredients
  • 3 ripe bananas, mashed
  • 1/2 cup unsalted buttermilk
  • 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
  • 1/4 cup coconut oil, melted
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1 1/2 cups whole wheat flour
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
Instructions
  1. 1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a loaf pan.
  2. 2. In a bowl, mix mashed bananas, buttermilk, honey, coconut oil, and vanilla.
  3. 3. In another bowl, combine flour, baking soda, and salt. Mix both together and pour into the loaf pan. Bake for 50-60 minutes.

Buttermilk Mashed Cauliflower

A healthy twist on traditional mashed potatoes, using cauliflower and buttermilk for a creamy and flavorful side dish.

Ingredients
  • 1 head cauliflower, chopped into florets
  • 1/2 cup unsalted buttermilk
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Chives for garnish
Instructions
  1. 1. Steam the cauliflower florets until tender, about 10-15 minutes.
  2. 2. In a food processor, blend the cauliflower with buttermilk, olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper until smooth.
  3. 3. Serve warm, garnished with chopped chives.

Buttermilk Oatmeal Smoothie

A nutritious smoothie combining oats and buttermilk for a filling breakfast option that’s quick and easy to make.

Ingredients
  • 1/2 cup rolled oats
  • 1 cup unsalted buttermilk
  • 1 banana
  • 1 tablespoon honey
  • 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
  • Ice cubes (optional)
Instructions
  1. 1. In a blender, combine oats, buttermilk, banana, honey, and cinnamon.
  2. 2. Blend until smooth, adding ice cubes for a colder drink if desired.
  3. 3. Pour into a glass and enjoy immediately.

Buttermilk Chicken Marinade

A flavorful marinade using buttermilk to tenderize chicken, resulting in juicy and delicious grilled or baked chicken.

Ingredients
  • 1 cup unsalted buttermilk
  • 2 tablespoons lemon juice
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 4 chicken breasts
Instructions
  1. 1. In a bowl, whisk together buttermilk, lemon juice, garlic, paprika, salt, and pepper.
  2. 2. Add chicken breasts to the marinade, cover, and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
  3. 3. Grill or bake the chicken until cooked through.

Buttermilk Vegetable Soup

A creamy and comforting vegetable soup made with buttermilk, perfect for a healthy and hearty meal.

Ingredients
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 2 carrots, diced
  • 2 celery stalks, diced
  • 3 cups vegetable broth
  • 1 cup unsalted buttermilk
  • 2 cups mixed vegetables (peas, corn, green beans)
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. In a pot, heat olive oil and sauté onion, carrots, and celery until soft.
  2. 2. Add vegetable broth and bring to a boil. Stir in mixed vegetables and simmer for 10 minutes.
  3. 3. Remove from heat, stir in buttermilk, and season with salt and pepper before serving.

Buttermilk Chia Seed Pudding

A delicious and nutritious chia seed pudding made with buttermilk, perfect for a healthy breakfast or dessert.

Ingredients
  • 1 cup unsalted buttermilk
  • 1/4 cup chia seeds
  • 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup
  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • Fresh fruit for topping
Instructions
  1. 1. In a bowl, whisk together buttermilk, chia seeds, honey, and vanilla extract.
  2. 2. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight until thickened.
  3. 3. Serve topped with fresh fruit.

Buttermilk Spinach and Feta Dip

A healthy and creamy dip made with buttermilk, spinach, and feta, perfect for snacking with veggies or whole-grain crackers.

Ingredients
  • 1 cup unsalted buttermilk
  • 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
  • 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. In a bowl, combine buttermilk, spinach, feta, garlic, and olive oil.
  2. 2. Mix until well combined and season with salt and pepper.
  3. 3. Serve chilled with fresh vegetables or whole-grain crackers.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What is buttermilk?

Buttermilk is a fermented dairy product made from cow's milk, known for its tangy flavor and probiotic content.

Is unsalted buttermilk healthy?

Yes, it is low in fat, rich in probiotics, and provides essential nutrients like calcium and vitamin B12.

How can I use buttermilk in cooking?

Buttermilk can be used in pancakes, biscuits, salad dressings, and marinades to add moisture and flavor.

Can I drink buttermilk daily?

Yes, consuming buttermilk daily can be beneficial for digestive health, but moderation is key.

Is buttermilk lactose-free?

While buttermilk contains less lactose than regular milk, it is not completely lactose-free.

How should I store buttermilk?

Store buttermilk in the refrigerator and consume it within a week for the best quality.

Can I substitute buttermilk in recipes?

Yes, you can substitute buttermilk with a mixture of milk and vinegar or lemon juice.

What are the benefits of probiotics in buttermilk?

Probiotics in buttermilk help maintain gut health, improve digestion, and boost the immune system.