Home Cooking Hack: How to Use Greek Yogurt in Place of Buttermilk

 Tired of buying a whole carton of buttermilk just for one recipe? We feel you.

There's no telling how many times we wasted money on full cartons of buttermilk for cornbread or biscuits here, and catfish there — but never used more than a cup before that expiration date came calling.

We're going to show you how to save a few dollars with this easy, affordable swap that you probably keep on hand anyway: Greek yogurt.

Why Swap Buttermilk for Greek Yogurt?

• Healthier: Greek yogurt (especially 0%) is typically lower in fat and higher in protein than buttermilk.
• More Versatile: Greek yogurt can be used in a wide range of recipes, from baking to marinades and of course, smoothies (more on that later).
• More Affordable: Because Greek yogurt comes in more sizes than buttermilk, you can buy exactly how much you need with little to no waste.

How to Make the Swap

Luckily, it's easy! Greek yogurt is a 1:1 swap for buttermilk in any recipe. If your recipe calls for buttermilk to marinate or use as a coating, simply use an equal amount of Greek yogurt in its place. The same goes for thicker doughs like biscuits or pie crusts.

If you're using Greek yogurt in place of buttermilk in other baking applications like muffins, waffles, pancakes, or cornbread, thin out the Greek yogurt using a 1:3 ratio. Meaning, for every 1 part water, use 3 parts Greek yogurt.

For example, if your recipe calls for 1 cup of buttermilk, combine 1/4 cup water and 3/4 cup Greek yogurt.

 

If you want more tang, start by adding 1 teaspoon of lemon juice or vinegar to the Greek yogurt. Whisk it together, give it a taste, and add more if necessary.

Why Greek Yogurt Works

Whether you're baking or throwing a chicken breast on the grill, using Greek yogurt has a ton of great benefits (besides being high in protein).

Here's a breakdown of how Greek works with baked goods:

• Creaminess: Its thick texture contributes to a rich and creamy mouthfeel.
• Tanginess: The slight acidity can help balance sweetness and add a pleasant tang.
• Moisture: Greek yogurt helps to keep baked goods moist and prevents them from drying out. 
• Protein: It provides a good source of protein, which can help baked goods hold their shape and rise properly. 

 

And when it comes to proteins, Greek yogurt:

• Gently Tenderizes: The lactic acid in Greek yogurt helps to break down tough muscle fibers in meat, without making them mushy.
• Enhances Flavor: Because the acid penetrates meat fibers and breaks down connective tissues, flavors from your rubs and seasonings get deeper into the meat, creating more flavor
• Adds Brightness: The tang and acidity from Greek yogurt works wonders on meat, seafood, and poultry, adding a gentle "brightness" that really enhances the rub and seasoning flavors.

Recipes That Work Well with Greek Yogurt

Now, we'd never tell you a tip that wasn't tested in our own kitchen first! Greek yogurt in place of buttermilk has become our staple in:

• Waffles (like our brown butter bourbon waffles)
• Air Fryer "Fried" Chicken (swap for Greek yogurt in this recipe)
• Air Fryer "Fried" Catfish and Shrimp (click here for more air frying tips)
• Our signature gluten free cornbread
• "Buttermilk" biscuits
• Grilled chicken marinades
• And of course, smoothies!

At this point, we're buying it by the tub at Costco because Greek yogurt is such a great value, and so versatile. We never have to worry about scrambling to use it up before it expires!

 

You can also try Greek yogurt in pancakes, scones, muffins, quick breads, soups, stews, and so much more.

• Baking: Pancakes, , biscuits, scones, muffins, and quick breads.
• Marinades: For chicken, fish, or vegetables.
• Soups and Stews: For added creaminess and tang.

By making the switch to Greek yogurt, you'll not only save money but also enjoy the health benefits and versatility of this delicious fridge staple. So, next time you find yourself reaching for buttermilk just to use a cup or two, consider grabbing a container of Greek yogurt instead.

And while you're making better-for-you swaps, don't forget to add Station 1923 Rubs and Seasonings to your cart!