
Milk
Milk, a creamy and versatile dairy staple, is a nutrient-rich liquid produced by mammals. Its flavor is typically mild and slightly sweet, with a smooth and delicate texture. Cow's milk, the most common type, is available in various fat percentages like whole milk, 2% milk, 1% milk, and skim milk, each offering a different level of richness and creaminess. Beyond cow's milk, alternatives like almond milk, soy milk, oat milk, and coconut milk provide plant-based options for those with dietary restrictions or preferences. Milk is a fundamental ingredient in countless recipes, a refreshing beverage, and an excellent source of calcium and vitamin D for healthy bones and teeth.
Common Uses
- Milk is used as a key ingredient in baking, adding moisture and richness to cakes, cookies, breads, and pastries. Using whole milk in baked goods will often yield a more tender and flavorful product.- Milk serves as the base for creamy soups and sauces, such as béchamel, cream of mushroom, and chowders. Simmering milk gently with other ingredients helps to create a smooth and velvety texture.- Milk is a popular addition to hot beverages like coffee, tea, and hot chocolate, adding a touch of sweetness and creaminess. Frothing milk creates lattes and cappuccinos with a delightful foam.- Milk is blended with fruits, vegetables, and protein powders to create smoothies and shakes. Using milk in smoothies adds a nutritional boost and a smooth, creamy consistency.- Milk is used to create a variety of desserts, including ice cream, yogurt, pudding, and custard. The fat content in milk helps to create a rich and decadent texture in these treats.- Milk is often used in breakfast dishes, such as oatmeal, cereal, and pancakes. Adding milk to these dishes provides essential nutrients and helps to create a more satisfying and complete meal.
Nutrition (per serving)
Nutrition (per serving)
Calories
61.0kcal (3.05%)
Protein
3.2g (6.4%)
Carbs
4.8g (1.75%)
Sugars
5.1g (10.2%)
Healthy Fat
0.8g
Unhealthy Fat
1.6g
% Daily Value based on a 2000 calorie diet
Nutrition (per serving)
Calories
61.0kcal (3.05%)
Protein
3.2g (6.4%)
Carbs
4.8g (1.75%)
Sugars
5.1g (10.2%)
Healthy Fat
0.8g
Unhealthy Fat
1.6g
% Daily Value based on a 2000 calorie diet
Health Benefits
- Excellent source of calcium for strong bones and teeth.
- Rich in protein, essential for muscle building and repair.
- Provides vitamin D, aiding calcium absorption and supporting immune function.
- Contains potassium, which helps regulate blood pressure.
- Source of B vitamins like B12 and riboflavin, important for energy metabolism.
Substitutes
Storage Tips
Milk should always be stored in the refrigerator at a temperature below 40°F (4°C). Keep it in its original container, tightly sealed, and away from the refrigerator door to maintain a consistent temperature. Properly stored milk typically lasts for about a week after the sell-by date. Freezing milk is possible, but it may alter the texture; it's best used for cooking or baking after thawing.
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