To produce sour milk for baking, you will add vinegar or lemon juice to regular milk.
How to Make Sour Milk at Home
Creating sour milk is a simple process, especially useful when a recipe calls for it and you don't have buttermilk on hand. The key is to introduce an acidic component to regular milk, which causes it to curdle slightly and achieve the desired acidity and texture.
Essential Ingredients
Based on standard recommendations for baking, you will need the following to make 1 cup (250 mL) of sour milk:
| Ingredient | Quantity | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Vinegar | 1 tbsp (15 mL) | White vinegar is commonly used. |
| OR Lemon Juice | 1 tbsp (15 mL) | Freshly squeezed or bottled. |
| Milk | Enough to equal 1 cup (250 mL) | Any type of milk (dairy) can be used. |
Simple Steps to Prepare
Follow these straightforward steps to prepare sour milk:
- Combine Ingredients: In a measuring cup or small bowl, add 1 tablespoon (15 mL) of either vinegar or lemon juice.
- Add Milk: Fill the rest of the cup with milk until the total volume reaches 1 cup (250 mL).
- Stir: Gently stir the mixture to combine the acid with the milk.
- Rest: Let the mixture stand undisturbed for 5 minutes. During this time, the acid will begin to curdle the milk, giving it the necessary acidity and texture.
- Use: Your homemade sour milk is now ready to be used in your baking recipes, providing the right amount of acidity for the desired chemical reactions (e.g., with baking soda).
This quick method ensures you have a suitable substitute for recipes requiring sour milk, which is often crucial for leavening and flavor in baked goods like pancakes, muffins, or cakes.
