Dairy products refer to food categories made from emulsion or dairy products as the main raw material through a series of processes and treatments. Common dairy products include milk, yogurt, cheese, butter, milk protein powder, etc.
Dairy products often have a rich, full-bodied taste and mouthfeel, whether it's milk, cheese, yogurt, or ice cream, providing a pleasant taste experience.
Dairy products are one of the important sources of nutrition, rich in high-quality protein, calcium, vitamin D and vitamin B12, etc. These nutrients are essential for bone health, muscle growth, and maintaining immune system function.
There are many types and flavors, which can meet the taste preferences and dietary needs of different people. Whether you like rich and milky cheese or sweet ice cream, people can choose according to their own preferences.
Dairy products are used in all kinds of cooking and baking, for example, milk is used to make yogurt, cream, butter, and various pastries. This makes dairy products an indispensable ingredient in the kitchen.
In many cultures, dairy products play an important role in the diet. For example, cheese is widely used in cooking and enjoyed in countries such as France, Italy, and Switzerland, while milk tea in India is a local traditional drink.
Types of common dairy products:
1. Milk: Milk is the most basic dairy product, which is the liquid extracted from the mammary glands of cows. Milk is a nutrient-rich food that contains various nutrients such as protein, calcium, vitamins, and minerals.
2. Yogurt: Yogurt is a dairy product made by adding probiotics to milk for fermentation. Probiotics help boost gut health and provide the good bacteria your digestive system needs. Yogurt also contains protein, calcium, and vitamins.
3. Cheese: Cheese is made from whey or solid components extracted from milk or other dairy products. There are many types of cheese including cheddar, blue cheese, parmesan, and more. Cheese is rich in protein, calcium, vitamins, and minerals.
4. Butter: Butter is a dairy product made by whipping milk or cream. It is mainly composed of milk fat and is rich in saturated fatty acids and vitamin A. Butter is commonly used for cooking, baking, and spreading bread.
5. Milk protein powder: Milk protein powder is a protein extracted from dairy products, which is processed into a powder. It is a common protein supplement that is often used in sports nutrition and body repair.
Here are some of the world-famous dairy products:
1. Parmigiano-Reggiano: Parmigiano-Reggiano from Italy is a hard, dry cheese known for its unique texture and rich flavor. It is commonly used in cooking, sprinkled over pasta dishes, or as a stand-alone appetizer.
2. Blue cheese: Blue cheese is a fermented cheese that contains blue-green mold spots. The taste of this cheese can vary from soft to firm, with a rich taste and a special aroma. Famous blue cheeses in the world include Roquefort from France and Stilton from England.
3. Stinky tofu: Ohm fermented bean curd is a fermented tofu product that originated in China. It has a distinctive smell and taste and is often used as an ingredient or snack in Chinese cooking.
4. Greek yogurt: Greek yogurt is a specially processed thick milk product. Greek yogurt is richer and thicker than regular yogurt. It is often eaten as a breakfast food or a healthy snack.
5. Cappuccino: Cappuccino is an Italian coffee drink consisting of espresso, steamed milk, and milk foam. Milk is one of the key ingredients of cappuccino, which gives the coffee drink a rich taste and milky aroma.
6. American ice cream: American ice cream is famous for its strong taste and variety of ingredients. It's usually made with milk, cream, and sugar, and flavored with fruit, nuts, chocolate chips, and more.
7. French butter: French butter is famous for its rich milk flavor and taste. It is made through the traditional whisking method and has a soft, smooth texture.
8. Indian white cheese: Indian white cheese is a non-yogurt fermented cheese commonly used in Indian and South Asian cooking. It has a soft, frankincense taste and is often used in curries and stir-fries.