🥗 Creamy Kefir Ranch Dressing

Published · Updated

Most ranch dressings are loaded with unhealthy oils and preservatives. This homemade version uses milk kefir to create a tangy, creamy base that is rich in probiotics. It tastes fresher, lighter, and is incredibly easy to make.

  • Prep Time: 5 Mins
  • Yield: 1 Jar (250ml)
  • Shelf Life: 1 Week

🥣 Ingredients

  • 1 Cup (250ml)

    Milk Kefir (Thick is best)
  • 1 tsp Each

    Dried Dill, Parsley, Chives
  • 1/2 tsp Each

    Garlic Powder & Onion Powder
  • 1 Tbsp

    Lemon Juice or Olive Oil

⚙️ Instructions

1

Combine Ingredients

Pour the milk kefir into a jar or small bowl. Add the dried herbs, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.

2

Whisk

Whisk thoroughly. If you want a richer dressing, whisk in 1 tablespoon of olive oil or mayonnaise. Add lemon juice for extra tang.

3

Chill

Let the dressing sit in the fridge for at least 30 minutes. This allows the dried herbs to rehydrate and the flavors to meld.

4

Serve

Drizzle over fresh greens, use as a dip for cucumber sticks, or use as a marinade for chicken.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions

My kefir is very runny, will this work?

If your kefir is thin, the dressing will be thin. To thicken it, you can strain the kefir through a coffee filter for 1 hour beforehand to remove some whey.

Can I use fresh herbs instead of dried?

Yes! Fresh herbs taste amazing. You will need to use 3 times the amount (e.g., 1 tablespoon fresh = 1 teaspoon dried).

How long does it last?

It keeps well in the fridge for about 1 week. The flavor actually improves after the first day.

Can I use fresh garlic?

Yes, but raw garlic in a fermented product can become very potent quickly. Use only half a clove, crushed very finely, if using fresh.

Can I use this as a marinade?

Yes. The acidity and enzymes in the kefir are excellent for tenderizing meat, especially chicken breast.

It tastes too sour, what can I do?

Kefir is naturally tart. You can balance this by adding a pinch of sugar, honey, or stirring in a spoonful of mayonnaise or sour cream.

Can I use yogurt instead?

Yes, this recipe works perfectly with plain yogurt or Greek yogurt. You might need to add a splash of milk to thin it down.

Is this keto-friendly?

Yes. Unlike store-bought ranch which often contains hidden sugars and thickeners, this recipe is low-carb and keto-friendly.

Can I make it spicy?

Absolutely. Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a splash of hot sauce for a “Spicy Kefir Ranch”.

Why are there bubbles in my dressing?

This is normal! Kefir is a live food and continues to ferment slightly, releasing carbon dioxide. It just means your probiotics are active.