What is it about dips and sauces? We love to dunk things don’t we?? From vegetables and chips to chicken fingers, there’s something satisfying about that extra layer of flavor that a sauce or dressing can impart no matter what you’re eating it on or with!
For the most part, I avoid cow’s milk and cow dairy products. It’s not for everyone* but for me, it gives me wicked post nasal drip and acne breakouts. So, it’s just not worth it in my book. Personally, it’s not a big deal as I’ve grown accustomed to finding innovative (and tasty) ways of satisfying my food cravings since having to kick gluten to the curb years ago!! Check out some of my other dairy-free sauce creations: Creamy Mushroom Sauce (great with whole-grain pasta) and Honey-Mustard Sauce (great with my homemade chicken tenders)!
We usually enjoy this Ranch-style sauce with our homemade black bean and tempeh tacos/burritos. It was originally meant to be a dairy-free sour cream but it really takes on a Ranch-style flavor. This sauce would be awesome on roast (or baked) potatoes, grilled salmon, or a bean burger.
I hope you enjoy this one! 😀
*Next to gluten, cow’s dairy is a common food sensitivity that can contribute to digestive inflammation and allergies. This can bring about problems with mood, immune function, and heavy periods. And while some of you might be assuming the problem with dairy is from the sugar lactose, it’s not (although some people do have problems digesting lactose – this is called a lactose intolerance – and can cause digestive symptoms like bloating, pain, gas, and diarrhea).
The problem with dairy is from a protein called A1 beta-casein of which cow’s milk is mostly made up of. Those that are sensitive to this protein will form an inflammatory peptide called beta-casomorphin-7 (BCM-7) that can cause digestive symptoms such as diarrhea, and/or non-digestive symptoms such as recurrent upper respiratory infections, premenstrual mood symptoms, period pain, and heavy flow.
In addition, if you’ve struggled with acne or eczema, A1 dairy milk might be implicated. If you’ve ever suffered with any of the above issues, try going dairy-free for a while and see how you feel. Most people don’t realize what they’re eating is a problem until they take a break from it and feel the impact.
What about sheep and goat milk/milk products you might be asking? These are often better tolerated as they predominantly contain A2 beta-casein protein.
Easy Dairy-Free Ranch Dressing/Sauce
Ingredients
- 2 Tbsp. dairy-free unsweetened yogurt I use Kitehill almond milk yogurt
- 2 Tbsp. regular real mayo
- 1 Tbsp. fresh dill chopped finely
- 1 Tbsp. fresh chives chopped finely
- 1 tsp. raw apple cider vinegar like Bragg's
- 1/8 tsp. garlic powder
- 1/8 tsp. onion powder
Instructions
- For the yogurt and mayo, use rounded measures.
- Combine all ingredients in a small bowl. Enjoy!
Notes
