buttermilk

This idea is covered in many other places but I'm always surprised by how many people don't know about it. If you have ever bought buttermilk for a specific recipe, used some, put the rest in the fridge with the fine intention of using it up someday soon only to unbury it weeks later looking like it is well on its way to making very stinky butter this tip has your name on it. You can make your own buttermilk by simply adding a a tbls of white vinegar or lemon juice to regular milk (skim or whole) and letting it sit for a minute or two until it starts to separate. You won't taste the difference and it is cheaper and easier than buying a separate container of buttermilk.