Milk powder, also known as dried milk is an invention that has transformed the world of cooking and food preservation. The process involves evaporating milk until it becomes dry. This extraordinary ingredient dates back to the 1800s and its commercial production flourished in the 20th century. What truly makes milk powder awe inspiring is its shelf life, versatility and ability to enhance the richness and flavor of dishes, particularly soups and sauces.
In various recipes, milk powder serves as a base, a thickening agent and a flavor enhancer. Many kitchens hide this ingredient, due to its flavor that easily dissolves in liquids. Now, let’s explore the realm of soups and sauces where milk powder transforms from just an ingredient into an element of magic!
Ingredients: Milk powder, canned tomatoes, garlic, onions, basil, butter.
Instructions: Sauté onions and garlic; add tomatoes and basil and blend; incorporate reconstituted milk powder; simmer and then serve.
Perfect with: Grilled cheese sandwiches.
Required ingredients: Mushrooms, powdered milk, chicken broth, flour, butter and a selection of herbs.
Directions: Begin by cooking the mushrooms. Then create a roux. Incorporate the milk and broth. Season to taste before serving.
Recommended accompaniment: Enjoy with some bread.
Required ingredients: Spinach, cheddar cheese, powdered milk, onions and a touch of nutmeg.
Directions: Start by sautéing the onions until they're brown. Add in the spinach. Blend until smooth. Incorporate the milk and cheese. Cook until you achieve a smooth consistency.
Recommended accompaniment: Serve alongside some whole grain rolls.
Required ingredients: Butternut squash, powdered milk, chicken broth, onions, ginger root and cream.
Directions: Begin by roasting the butternut squash until tender. Sauté the onions to bring out their flavor. Blend all the ingredients together. Let them simmer with added milk before serving.
Recommended accompaniment: Garnish with spiced croutons for an extra kick.
Required ingredients: Powdered milk, flour, butter as your choice of seasoning.
Directions: Start by making a roux using flour and melted butter. Incorporate reconstituted milk while cooking until you achieve a thickened consistency.
Recommended pairing options: Perfect for pasta or vegetable dishes.
Required ingredients: Cauliflower florets along with milk powder, garlic for flavoring
and olive oil for sautéing.
Instructions: Steam cauliflower, blend it along with milk powder and garlic, heat, and serve.
Recommended pairing options: Perfect for zucchini noodles.
Required Ingredients: Milk powder along with parmesan cheese, garlic, butter, and cream.
Instructions: Sauté some garlic then blend in milk powder, parmesan cheese and butter. Simmer the mixture until it turns creamy.
Recommended pairing options: This sauce goes perfectly with Fettuccine pasta.
Ingredients: Broccoli, cheddar cheese, chicken broth, milk powder, and onions.
Instructions: Start by cooking broccoli and onions. Once they're cooked, blend them together. Add milk powder and cheddar cheese to create a cheesy soup. Let it simmer to perfection.
Recommended pairing options: Enjoy it alongside a baked potato.
Ingredients: Pumpkin puree, curry powder, milk powder, coconut milk, and onions.
Instructions: Begin by sautéing some onions. Then add pumpkin puree and spices of your choice (such as curry powder). Blend in some milk powder for added creaminess. Cook it all together until the flavors meld beautifully.
Recommended pairing options: Pair this soup with Naan bread for a combination.
Ingredients: Leeks, potatoes, chicken broth, milk powder, and cream.
Instructions: Cook leeks and potatoes until tender. Blend them together while adding milk powder for added richness along with chicken broth, for flavor depth. Allow the soup to simmer gently.
Recommended pairing options: Serve it alongside biscuits.
Ingredients: Milk powder, maple syrup, mustard and vinegar.
Instructions: Whisk all the ingredients together until they form a smooth mixture.
Best served with: Grilled chicken or pork.
Ingredients: Gather corn, chicken broth, milk powder and egg whites.
Instructions: Cook the corn with the broth, blend it until smooth add milk powder to thicken it, simmer gently and finally stir in the egg whites.
Best served with: Perfectly paired with bread.
1. Thoroughly Whisk it: Make sure to dissolve the milk powder to avoid any lumps.
2. Optimal Heat Level: Cook your sauces on heat to prevent burning or separation.
3. Fresh Herb Finishing Touches: Add a handful of herbs towards the end for an explosion of flavors.
4. Roasting Enhancements: For added depth in soups, roast your vegetables before incorporating them.
5. Cheesy Goodness at the End: To ensure melting, add cheeses towards the end of cooking time.
6. Seasonings are Key: Taste and adjust seasonings as needed since milk powders can vary in sweetness levels.
7. Storing Wisely: Keep your milk powder in a cool and dry place for longevity.
You shouldn't hesitate to use milk powder instead of milk in recipes if you want to enhance the taste. It's a secret that can turn soups and sauces into extraordinary culinary experiences. The convenience, versatility and easy storage of milk powder make it an essential ingredient. Whether you're thickening a tomato soup or creating a creamy alfredo sauce, adding milk powder brings a delightful creaminess and flavor that will truly amaze you. So, the next time you're in the kitchen, grab that milk powder and witness how it magically elevates your dish leaving both you and your guests in awe!