Buttermilk: Everything To Know

Buttermilk: History, Recipies, Ingredients, How To Make, Restaurants, Prices And Everything To Know

Buttermilk has a rich history, evolving from its traditional roots to the modern kitchen.

In the pre-refrigeration era, fresh milk was skimmed daily to separate cream.
The remaining milk was for drinking or baking, while the cream was set aside for butter-making.
As the cream naturally fermented, bacteria produced lactic acid, souring the cream.
However, modern butter production often uses uncultured sweet cream, resulting in a different type of buttermilk.
This “soured” cream was easier to churn into butter due to its lower pH.
The liquid separated during butter churning became true buttermillk.

- Most buttermilk available today is cultured separately.
- It’s made by fermenting low-fat or skim milk with specific bacterial cultures.
- The result is a tangy, slightly thick liquid with a creamy texture.

Baking Magic:
- Buttermillk is a secret weapon in baking:
  - Tender Pancakes: Fluffy buttermilk pancakes are a breakfast favorite.
  - Perfect Biscuits: Buttery, flaky biscuits owe their texture to buttermillk.
  - Moist Cakes: Add it to cake batters for extra moisture and a subtle tang.
Savory Creations:
- Buttermilk Dressings: Creamy ranch or blue cheese dressings start with buttermilk.
- Marinades: Tenderize meats and also infuse flavor with buttermilk-based marinades.

Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup of cultured buttermilk
- 1 quart whole milk (2% or 1% also work)
Method:
- Mix the cultured buttermilk with the whole milk.
- Let it sit at room temperature for several hours (up to 24 hours) until thickened and tangy.
- Use it in recipes or refrigerate for later use.

If you don’t have buttermillk, you can make your own substitute:
- Mix 1 tablespoon of white vinegar or lemon juice with enough milk to measure 1 cup.
- Let it sit for about 5 minutes before using.
Dairy-free options: Use coconut milk or soy milk with vinegar or lemon juice.

- Buttermillk freezes well. Store it in a sealed container for up to 3 months.
- Also Consider freezing it in 1-tablespoon portions using an ice cube tray for convenience.

Buttermillk Biscuits:
- Buttermilk helps these biscuits rise, making them tall, fluffy, and irresistible. Top them with melty butter and also honey for the perfect treat!
Buttermillk Pie:
- A Southern favorite, this custard-like pie has a caramelized top and a flaky crust. It’s comfort food at its best!
Chicken Fried Chicken:
- Marinating chicken thighs in buttermillk, pickle juice, and also egg results in extra crispy fried chicken. Top it with creamy gravy for a comforting meal.
Perfect Pancakes:
- Ree Drummond’s pancakes are truly perfect! The combination of both milk and buttermillk gives them their ideal texture.

Buttermillk Café:
- Location: 1715 Freedom Dr, Naperville, IL.
- Hours: 7:00 AM – 2:30 PM.
- Menu Highlights: Stuffed Banana Bourbon French Toast, Buttermillk Pancakes, Chicken Fried Chicken Skillet, and more.
- Reviews: Overall rating of 4.2 stars (474 reviews). Some guests were disappointed with flavorless dishes, while others praised the accommodating staff and delicious food.
Menu Options:
- Buttermilk Café offers a variety of options:
  - Breakfast & Lunch Menu: Includes gluten-free, vegan, and kids’ selections.
  - Coffee Bar Menu: Hot and cold coffee beverages alo crafted by their barista.
  - Cocktail Menu: Signature alcoholic drinks like Bloody Mary and seasonal mimosas.
  - Kids Menu: Also Designed for the little ones.
  - Catering Menu: Available for special events.
- You can find more details and download the menus on their website.
Other Locations:
- Vernon Hills: 925 North Milwaukee Ave. Suite 500, Vernon Hills, IL.
- Geneva: 7W State St., Geneva, IL 60134.

Remember, whether your fruits or marinating chicken, buttermilk adds a delightful tang and enhances your culinary creations!