Natural yogurt

Homemade Natural Yogurt Recipe

Total time: 10-12 hours (including fermentation time)
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Servings: Approximately 1.5 kg of yogurt

Ingredients:
- 2 liters of unpasteurized milk (or whole milk if unpasteurized is not available)
- 120 g natural yogurt (preferably with active cultures) or sour cream

Brief Introduction:
Making yogurt at home is an ancient art that has been passed down through generations. It is a wonderful way to control the ingredients, enjoying a healthy product without additives and preservatives. Additionally, homemade yogurt is creamier and richer in flavor than store-bought varieties. In this recipe, I will show you step by step how to prepare the perfect yogurt using just milk and one secret ingredient - yogurt! Let's get started!

Step 1: Boiling the Milk
In a non-stick pot, add the 2 liters of unpasteurized milk. Place the pot over medium heat and let the milk come to a boil. It is important to stir occasionally to prevent the milk from burning at the bottom of the pot.

Useful Tip: If you have a kitchen thermometer, use it to check the temperature. The milk should reach a temperature of about 85-90 degrees Celsius to destroy unwanted bacteria.

Step 2: Cooling the Milk
Once the milk has boiled, remove the pot from the heat and let it cool. This is essential! Cool the milk until it reaches a temperature of 37-38 degrees Celsius. A simple trick to check the temperature is to dip a finger into the milk. If it doesn’t burn, you’re on the right track.

Step 3: Preparing the Yogurt Mixture
In a ceramic bowl (I strongly recommend using ceramic as it retains heat better), add the 120 g of natural yogurt or sour cream. Carefully pour the warm milk over the yogurt, stirring gently to combine the ingredients. This is where the magic begins! The active cultures in the yogurt will transform the milk into a creamy and delicious product.

Step 4: Fermentation
After mixing well, cover the bowl with a tight lid. Then, wrap it with clean towels to retain heat. Place it in a warm spot, such as an off oven or a sunny place. Let it ferment for 8-12 hours. The longer you leave it, the firmer and more tangy it will become.

Step 5: Finishing the Yogurt
After the fermentation period, open the bowl and admire the result! The yogurt should be firm and have a pleasant aroma. Carefully transfer it to glass or plastic containers and store it in the refrigerator. Homemade yogurt will stay fresh for about a week.

Personal Tip: Always keep 100 g of the yogurt made to use as a starter for the next round of yogurt. This way, you will have a continuous cycle of fresh yogurt!

Variations and Serving Suggestions:
- Fruit Yogurt: Add fresh or frozen fruits like strawberries, blueberries, or peaches to create a delicious and healthy yogurt.
- Flavored Yogurt: Try mixing in a bit of honey, vanilla, or cinnamon for an explosion of flavors.
- Greek Yogurt: At the end, you can let the yogurt drain in a sieve for 24-48 hours to achieve creamy Greek yogurt.

Calories and Nutritional Benefits:
Homemade yogurt is an excellent source of protein, calcium, and probiotics, which help maintain digestive health. A serving of yogurt can contain approximately 60-100 calories, depending on the fat content of the milk used.

Frequently Asked Questions:
1. Why should I use unpasteurized milk?
Unpasteurized milk contains natural bacteria that aid in the fermentation of yogurt, providing superior taste and texture.
2. What if the yogurt doesn’t thicken?
If the yogurt doesn’t thicken, the temperature may have been too low or it may not have had enough fermentation time.
3. Can I use skim milk?
Yes, but the yogurt will be less creamy. We recommend whole milk for a richer texture.

Ideal Combinations:
Homemade yogurt pairs perfectly with granola, muesli, or as an ingredient in salad dressings. It can also be enjoyed alongside a refreshing drink, such as a fruit smoothie or iced tea.

With this simple yet flavorful recipe, you will be able to enjoy a delicious homemade yogurt that is not only healthy but also satisfying. Cook with love and experiment with ingredients to find the combinations that delight you the most! Enjoy!