What are the health benefits of lapte bătut?

What is lapte batut?

Lapte batut is a traditional Romanian fermented milk drink. English sources describe it as buttermilk, a by-product of making butter from cream, with a light texture because it is low in fat. It can be drunk or eaten with a spoon. Home and commercial versions may be made differently, for example by souring milk with a starter, so check the label of the product you buy.

What are the health benefits of lapte batut?

Be careful with claims. The page we read says it is rich in probiotics and good for digestive, immune and colon health, and that fermentation breaks the casein into smaller pieces that are easier to digest, but it cites no studies. What can be said in general:

• It is a dairy product, so it provides protein and calcium like other milk drinks; amounts vary by brand.
• It is described as light and low in fat, but check the label for the fat content.
• Fermentation lowers some lactose. People with severe lactose intolerance may still feel discomfort.

Whether it improves digestion or immunity for you is not proven by the sources we found. This is general information, not medical advice.

How is lapte batut made at home?

1. Boil fresh milk, then let it cool until warm.
2. Pour it into ceramic or glass containers.
3. Mix in one tablespoon of sour cream for every 700 g of warm milk.
4. Leave covered at room temperature for 1 to 2 days until it thickens; summer may take about a day, cool rooms longer.
5. When a cream layer forms on top, it is ready. Refrigerate it right away so it does not get sourer.

How do you eat lapte batut?

• As a snack with a bagel or pastry
• For breakfast with bread or cereal
• Drunk cold, or eaten with a spoon

If you watch your sugar intake, choose plain versions without added sugar.