Substitutes for buttermilk in cooking include milk with vinegar/lemon juice, yogurt, sour cream, kefir, plant-based milk alternatives, coconut milk yogurt, gluten-free milk with vinegar/lemon juice, and gluten-free yogurt. Each alternative maintains the integrity of dishes with slight taste and texture variations.
Combine 1 cup of milk with 1 tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice to replicate buttermilk's acidity. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until slightly curdled. This mixture can tenderize and add flavor to baked goods. Expect a slightly different taste, and popular brands include Horizon Organic and Heinz Vinegar.
Plain yogurt, either regular or Greek, thinned with milk or water, is a great substitute. Its natural tanginess and creaminess mimic buttermilk in recipes. Use a 1:1 ratio. Expect a denser texture due to the yogurt's thickness. Brands like Chobani and Fage are recommended.
For gluten-free recipes, milk alternatives like rice or oat milk combined with vinegar or lemon juice can provide the buttermilk tang. Use a 1:1 ratio. The end result may be slightly different in taste. Pacific Foods and Oatly are top choices.
Gluten-free yogurt, such as those made from almond or soy, diluted with water or a gluten-free milk, can serve as a substitute. The proportions and results are similar to regular yogurt substitutions. Kite Hill and Silk offer gluten-free yogurt options.
Sour cream thinned with milk or water can replace buttermilk for dressings and marinades. Its tangy profile and creaminess work well. Use a 1:1 ratio, adjusting with additional liquid if necessary. Expect a thicker dressing. Daisy and Breakstone's are popular brands.
Kefir, a fermented milk drink, serves as an excellent liquid substitute. Its similar tangy taste and probiotic qualities make it a good match for dressings and marinades. Use it interchangeably. Lifeway and Wallaby are well-known kefir brands.
Mix 1 cup of soy, almond, or coconut milk with 1 tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice. This vegan-friendly option will curdle and provide the required acidity. Use a 1:1 ratio. The flavor may vary based on the milk used. Silk and Alpro are common plant milk brands.
Coconut milk yogurt, thinned if necessary, offers a dairy-free alternative with a similar tanginess for vegan recipes. Use in a 1:1 ratio, but expect a slight coconut flavor. Brands like So Delicious and COYO are recommended.
| Recipe Category | Substitutes |
|---|---|
| Baking | Milk and Vinegar/Lemon Juice, Yogurt |
| Gluten-Free Recipes | Gluten-free Milk and Vinegar/Lemon Juice, Gluten-free Yogurt |
| Dressings and Marinades | Sour Cream, Kefir |
| Vegan and Dairy-Free Recipes | Plant-based Milk and Vinegar/Lemon Juice, Coconut Milk Yogurt |
Whether you're out of buttermilk, cooking for dietary restrictions, or simply looking to experiment, these substitutes provide versatile alternatives in various culinary uses. Each option brings unique qualities to your dishes, ensuring you can adapt recipes without compromising on flavor or texture.
