Are there any differences between milk and half and half and can half and half be used the same as milk?!
Are there any differences between milk and half and half and can half and half be used the same as milk?
Answers:
There is a huge difference between milk and 1/2 and 1/2.
The butterfat content in 1/2 and 1/2 is dramatically higher than that in milk. In 1/2 and 1/2 it is 12.5%. In milk it is typically between 0-4% (0 being skim milk).
This makes a huge difference to taste and texture:
1/2 and 1/2 is much thicker than milk and coats your tongue. It "tastes" thick and fatty. Milk does not coat nearly as well and tastes clean.
However, on many occasions 1/2 and 1/2 is called for!:
For example, to make an "Angel Kiss", you put creme de cacao liqueur in your drinking vessel...usually a shot's worth, and you carefully pour the 1/2 and 1/2 creme on the side of the glass. It will float on top of the creme de cacao and make a beautiful, clean layer. It is delicious!
It is more delicious in creme sauces, say for alfredo, and goes better in coffee, so I am told.
Basically, for something that tastes richer, like desserts, you'll want to use creme, provided you are not on a diet.
If you are on a diet, use milk as often as possible in replacement of 1/2 and 1/2.
If you are in a pinch, and don't have 1/2 and 1/2 or milk, use them in replacement of each other.
* However, if you are baking, do not substitute, as this can make a huge and destructive difference to your baked goods.
Hope this helps!
Kimberly Edwards :D
http://www.cookingwithkimberly.com...