Buttermilk, (also known as fermented milk), is a dairy product that is made by adding bacterial cultures to skimmed or low-fat milk. It has a slightly thick texture and a tangy flavour that is often used in baking recipes to help activate the yeast and create fluffy, light finished products.
The Bretons add lait ribot to fresh fruit, to soup and to mashed potatoes, and I also know many Bretons who dunk their galettes (savory buckwheat pancakes) into lait ribot.
Buttermilk is also consumed on its own or mixed with spices to create a refreshing and healthy drink. As well as being delicious, buttermilk is also an excellent source of calcium, vitamin D and protein.
Bretons enjoy a glass or two of lait ribot and quite often the only fresh milk you find in supermarkets is ‘lait ribot’. If you want ‘normal’ milk you have to drink UHT milk (which is not the same thing at all).
To me, lait ribot is very much like marmite, you either love it or hate it. When you are next in Brittany have a glass and let me know what you think.
Editor Notes about Lait Ribot
Lait Ribot has been made in Brittany for thousands of years and is also made in other areas of France where it is known as ‘lait battu’, lait baratté or ‘lait de beurre’.
I haven’t knowingly tasted it, but I’ll look out for it from now on.
I buy quantities of this when in France.
I would not personally describe it as ‘buttermilk’ more a fermented, unsweetened yogurt drink. I know how the French use it; but I prefer to drink a glass first thing in the morning at last thing at night. I admit is is an acquired taste being slightly fizzy and sour. My family cannot understand my love of it. The first sip is a little off-putting but the rest is delicious.
Try it! Get past the first sip and you may like it. The French say it is very good for you.
As someone who has lived in Brittany for the last 14 years, I can’t help but point out that normal fresh milk is pretty much always available in any grocery store I’ve ever been in, right next to the lait ribot. French people really don’t drink it much, but it’s not at all hard to find.
Other than that, great post!
Like Paul I love lait ribot and always buy some to drink when we are on holiday in Brittany. It’s very good for settling your stomach and I find it a great way to start the day.