Dairy is an unrivalled powerhouse of nutrients and the main ingredient in myriad dishes. From a comforting glass of milk before bed, to indulgent whipping creams and glossy crème fraiche, few things can contend with the nourishing quality of this versatile ingredient.
FOR GROWING BONES
A lesson in wholesome nutrition begins with dairy. Calcium-rich dairy products are essential for growing children, strengthening bones and reducing the risk of osteoporosis in later years.
Use full-cream organic milk to make these miniature cardamom milk tarts for a scrumptious school lunch, or pack a low-fat chocolate milk for a flavourful addition to break time. A nutritious power-smoothie with peanut butter and banana also makes a wholesome after-school snack. To satisfy ice-cream cravings, try our lemon curd yoghurt with a caramel swirl as a more wholesome substitute.
THE CALCIUM QUOTIENT
Building strong bones and teeth is calcium’s claim to fame – but when should we wipe off that milk moustache? Although long hailed as the ultimate source of calcium, dairy should be consumed in moderation, as its by-products are often high in fat.
Making an informed decision when it comes to buying dairy is essential. Dairy products come in various forms, including skim, two-percent, fat-free and full cream. Choose low-fat milk, yoghurt and cottage cheese as your dairy staples and consider alternative calcium sources to supplement your dairy intake.
CRÈME DE LA CRÈME
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Cream, the equivalent of dairy royalty, is as temperamental as it is versatile. Heavy creams (higher in fat) are better options for cooking, as lighter creams tend to curdle. Cream is the star of some of our most decadent sweet fixes - hot custards, indulgent chocolate mousses, traditional trifles and delicate tarts. It is also, of course, the pefect partner to a bowl of strawberries.
Cream performs best at its freshest - make sure it gets the coolest spot in the refrigerator and be sure to use it well before its sell-by date.
SIMMER AND SAUTÉ
Dairy is the luxurious foundation of many exotic dishes. It appears in many forms, from the creamy sauces of Indian and Middle Eastern cuisines, to fragrant dips and al dente linguine served on the Mediterranean coast. Most pasta sauces rely on fresh dairy ingredients to fortify flavour and texture. Dollops of cream and lashings of hot mascarpone are culinary gems in any Italian dish.
Yoghurt-inspired dips are perfect accompaniments to tapas and canapés. Whip up a Greek taramasalata and tzatziki dip in minutes and serve with crispy pita. Dairy is also the base ingredient for many soups and marinades, as well as desserts and creamy salad dressings. Add a hint of indulgence to a healthy summer salad with a crème fraiche, balsamic vinegar and Dijon mustard infusion.
HAPPY COWS
Woolworths’ drive toward sustainable farming and good animal husbandry practices keeps its Ayrshire herds glossy-coated and content. It seems the quality milk they produce isn’t the only cultured process – the prized milk-makers have a particular fondness for Tchaikovsky, which is played to them during milking.
A gentle stroll though the dewy Ayrshire pastures of Kevin Lang’s farm in Howick, KwaZulu-Natal reveals that a happy cow is a productive one.
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