Skyr: Excellent Icelandic food

Oh, theIceland ! Land of geysers, northern lights and… skyr. Wondering what a drunkard is? It is one of the Icelandic dairy products that is very popular all over the world. It is rich in ProteinsIt is low in fat and has a creamy texture that makes it delicious to eat. but that is not all. Skyr has a fascinating history dating back over a thousand years. So, are you ready to discover this superfood? Let's go!

History and origin

Skyr has been a traditional food in Iceland for over a thousand years. It was introduced by the first Viking settlers in the 9th century. At that time, food preservation was a major challenge, and thanks to the fermentation process, the drink remained good for long periods of time.

Drunkard is made of Milk Skimmed after removing the cream to make butter. The milk is fermented using bacteria similar to those found in yogurt. However, skir is thicker and creamier than yogurt because it is strained to remove the whey.

In Iceland, skyr is a staple food. It is eaten for breakfast, dessert, or even as a snack. It is often served with milk and sugar or with berries in summer. Skyr is also used in Icelandic cuisine to prepare dishes such as “hræringur”, a type of porridge.

Today, Skyr is popular beyond Iceland's borders. It is appreciated by athletes, especially those who practice bodybuilding and other strength sports, for its richness in proteins, low fat content, and delicious taste. It is often sold as a healthier option than yogurt or cheese.

Manufacturing process

Skyr making is an art in itself, passed down from generation to generation in Iceland. The process begins by collecting the milk, which is traditionally cow's milk, although sheep's milk can also be used.

The milk is first pasteurized to kill unwanted bacteria. The cream is then removed to make the butter, and the skim milk is left behind. This skimmed milk is then heated to a specific temperature before being cooled to a suitable temperature for fermentation.

That's when bacteria cultures are added. These bacteria, called Skyr Cultures, are a mixture of lactic acid bacteria (Streptococcus thermophilus and Lactobacillus bulgaricus) that ferment lactose, the milk sugar, into lactic acid. This gives the drink its distinctive, slightly sour taste.

Once the milk is fermented, it is filtered to remove the whey, leaving behind a thick, creamy cream. This draining process is what distinguishes sugar from yoghurt, which is usually not strained and therefore has a more liquid consistency.

The drink is then cooled and can be consumed as is or with additives such as sugar, fruit or flavourings.

It is important to note that true Icelandic skunk is made from ancestral skunk cultures, passed down from generation to generation. This is what gives the drink its unique taste and creamy texture.

Health benefits

Skyr is more than just delicious food. It is also a true ally for your health. Why ? Because it is low in calories and contains a lot of protein and little fat.

A 100g serving can contain up to 10 grams of protein. Protein is essential for building and repairing body tissues, including muscles. This is why Skyr is often appreciated by people who are athletes or looking to increase their protein intake.

It is therefore a good choice for those looking to maintain a healthy weight or lose weight. Although it low fatan incredibly creamy and filling drink, which can help control sweet cravings.

Skyr is also rich in calcium, an essential mineral for healthy bones and teeth. It also contains potassium, which can help maintain healthy blood pressure, and magnesium, which is important for many body functions.

Finally, drunkard contains probiotics, which are beneficial bacteria that can help promote healthy digestion. Probiotics can also strengthen the immune system and help prevent some diseases.

Benefits to qualify

Some articles extol the virtues of drunkard as a superfood. But is this really justified?

Although it has undeniable nutritional qualities, its composition is not exceptional. For example, Greek yogurt or some types of white cheese contain equivalent protein values.

As for probiotics, their concentration varies greatly from one brand to another. As with other yogurts, the strains used are not necessarily the most effective for health.

Is it a slimming ally?

If you're looking to lose weight or maintain a healthy weight, Skyr could be your new ally. Why ? rich in Proteinslow in fat and low in calories, it is the perfect snack to satisfy a little hunger, instead of cereal or chocolate bars.

Controversial high price

When purchased, Skyr from major brands (Siggi's, Arla, Ísey Skyr) is 2 to 3 times more expensive than classic yogurt. This price is due in part to its Icelandic origin and craftsmanship. But some nutritionists believe this additional cost is not justified given its composition.

There are already similar French or European alternatives in terms of proteins, calcium and probiotics, with a lower budget. This is the case, for example, for Greek yogurt, some types of white yogurt or fresh cheese, or even stirred yogurt rich in plant proteins.

So is Skyr really worth its premium price? It all depends on the qualities you are looking for. If you want to bet on the authenticity of an Icelandic product with a unique taste, treat yourself. But to get optimal value for money, it may be better to turn to local alternatives.

Compare with 3 popular dairy products

Drunkard against yogurt

Yogurt is perhaps the dairy product most similar to sap, but there are some notable differences. Yogurt is generally lower in protein and may contain more fat. Skyr, on the other hand, is higher in protein and lower in fat, making it a healthier option for those looking to increase their protein intake.

Drunkard versus cheese

Cottage cheese is a dairy product that is rich in protein, but has a grainy texture and milder taste. Skyr is creamier and has a slightly tangy taste, making it more versatile for sweet or savory recipes.

Skyr vs. fermented milk (kefir)

Kefir is a fermented dairy product like kefir, but it contains different types of probiotics and has a more liquid consistency. Skyr is thicker and can be used as a substitute for yogurt or cheese in various recipes, while kefir is mostly consumed as a drink.

The last word

Although sometimes over-sold as a superfood, Skyr remains a favorite dairy product for a healthy, balanced diet.

With its creamy texture, typically tangy taste and many interesting nutrients, it really deserves attention in the dairy aisles.

To consume without moderation, but without giving it extraordinary virtues that it does not necessarily possess. Skyr remains above all a good dairy product, among others, to include as part of a varied diet.