How to Make Buttermilk at Home

Learn how to make buttermilk at home with just two simple ingredients: milk and lemon juice or vinegar. This easy and quick recipe provides the perfect substitute for store-bought buttermilk in all your favorite dishes, from pancakes and biscuits to fried chicken and dressings. Whether you’re in a pinch or want to avoid buying buttermilk, this homemade version gives you the same creamy texture and tangy flavor, ready in minutes. Perfect for those following dairy-free or vegan diets with easy substitutions!

Ingredients:

• 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice or white vinegar
• 1 cup milk of your choice (dairy or non-dairy)

Instructions:

1. Pour the milk into a bowl.
2. Add 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar to the milk.
3. Stir well to combine, then let it sit for about 5 minutes. The milk will begin to curdle and become slightly acidic, mimicking the tangy taste and texture of buttermilk.
4. Use this homemade buttermilk in your recipe as needed. Enjoy!

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Making buttermilk at home is a simple, quick, and affordable solution when you’re in a pinch. This homemade version provides the same creamy texture and tangy flavor as store-bought buttermilk, perfect for baking and cooking. It’s a great substitute for traditional buttermilk and works well with recipes like pancakes, biscuits, and fried chicken!

Tips

• Let it sit: Allowing the mixture to sit for 5 minutes gives it enough time to curdle and thicken, which is key for the correct texture.
• Use in recipes as usual: This homemade buttermilk can be substituted in any recipe that calls for buttermilk.
• Best results: For the most authentic taste, use fresh lemon juice or vinegar rather than bottled versions.

Variations and Substitutions

• Non-Dairy Version: Use plant-based milk such as almond milk, soy milk, or oat milk if you’re looking for a dairy-free alternative.
• Vinegar vs Lemon Juice: Both lemon juice and vinegar work well for creating buttermilk, so feel free to choose based on what you have on hand.
• Adding flavor: You can infuse your buttermilk with a bit of vanilla extract or a pinch of sugar for a sweeter flavor if desired.

FAQs

Can I use this homemade buttermilk in savory dishes?

Yes, this homemade buttermilk works perfectly for both sweet and savory dishes, including baked goods, fried chicken, and salad dressings.

How do I store homemade buttermilk?

You can store leftover homemade buttermilk in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Just give it a quick stir before using it again.

Can I use this buttermilk for pancakes or waffles?

Absolutely! This homemade buttermilk works great in pancake and waffle recipes, adding the tangy flavor and fluffiness that buttermilk provides.

Serving and Suggestions

• In Baking: Use this buttermilk to make fluffy pancakes, biscuits, or scones.
• In Fried Foods: It’s perfect for soaking chicken or fish before frying, giving them a crispy, tender coating.
• In Dressings: Use this as the base for buttermilk ranch dressing or a tangy coleslaw dressing.

With this easy homemade buttermilk recipe, you can always have this kitchen essential on hand for your favorite recipes!