Description
Ranch dressing is a condiment made of buttermilk or sour cream, mayonnaise, minced green onion, garlic powder, and other seasonings mixed into a sauce. Ranch dressing is one of the two most popular styles of salad dressing in the United States, together with Italian dressing. It is also popular as a dipping sauce. This flavour-booster has become a kitchen classic for its versatility and ease of use in a wide variety of recipes.
How to select
Ranch dressings can be bought whole or in the premixed and packaged ground form. Always check the expiry date and look out for any discoloration or gas formation (bubbles) in the bottle, especially near the tip. Ranch dressing mix or powder is also available in the market which just needs to be mixed with sour cream or buttermilk to get an instant ranch dressing.
Culinary Uses
" The primary culinary use of ranch dressings is as a salad dressing.
" Ranch dressing is a common dipping sauce for vegetables such as broccoli and carrots, as well as "bar foods" such as french fries and chicken wings.
" It is also a common dipping sauce for fried foods such as fried mushrooms, fried zucchini, onion rings, and hush puppies.
" Additionally, ranch dressing is used on pizza, baked potatoes, wrap sandwiches, tacos, and hamburgers.
" It is especially popular in the South US as a garnish for nearly all foods.
" Ranch seasoning can be used to marinade chicken and as a dip with nachos, tacos, tortillas and stir fry vegetables.
How to store
Store the Ranch dressings in the fridge and add a teaspoon to your next dish for its delectable taste
Health benefits
" Ranch dressing is notable for its extremely high fat content. A typical 2 tablespoon serving contains 145 kcal (608 kJ) and 15 g of fat. 94% of those calories come from fat. it is best to use the dressing only sparingly.