She Strengthens

Get Cultured: The Surprising Simplicity of Making Your Own Yogurt

Are you intimidated by the thought of making your own yogurt? Fear not! With a few simple steps and minimal equipment, you can create a delicious, healthy, and cost-effective yogurt that surpasses store-bought options.

The Recipe

This recipe yields approximately 4 cups of plain, unsweetened yogurt. You’ll need:

• 4 cups of whole or 2% milk
• 1/4 cup of premade plain yogurt
• A lidded pot
• A large stirring spoon
• A mixing bowl
• Towels
• A candy thermometer (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Heat and Cool the Milk: Bring the milk to a low boil at 180°F (82°C), stirring regularly to prevent scalding. Remove from heat and let cool until it reaches 110°F (43°C).
2. Mix and Incubate: Combine the premade yogurt with 1 cup of milk from the pot. Stir this mixture back into the rest of the milk, cover, and incubate in a warm spot (or a turned-off oven with the light on) for about 5 hours. Wrap in towels to keep warm.
3. Chill and Enjoy: Transfer the yogurt to an airtight container and refrigerate for a few hours. Then, it’s ready to eat!

Alternative Methods

• Yogurt Maker: Use a yogurt maker for incubation, following the manufacturer’s instructions.
• Instant Pot or Slow Cooker: Utilize an Instant Pot or slow cooker for boiling, cooling, and incubating the milk.

Safety Considerations

• Store homemade yogurt in airtight containers in the fridge.
• Don’t incubate outside of the fridge for longer than 8-10 hours.
• Discard yogurt if it smells, tastes, or appears unusual.

Customizing Your Yogurt

• Greek Yogurt: Strain the yogurt through cheesecloth to create a thick, creamy Greek yogurt.
• Sweetened Yogurt: Add your preferred sweetener after incubation.
• Vanilla Yogurt: Add vanilla beans, extract, or paste when combining the yogurt and milk.
• Fruit Yogurt: Fold in finely chopped fruit or preserves after incubation.

Benefits of Homemade Yogurt

• Taste and Quality: Homemade yogurt boasts a richer, creamier taste and texture.
• Control Over Ingredients: Choose your own sweeteners, flavorings, and milks for a healthier option.
• Cost-Effective: Make a gallon of yogurt for the price of 1 gallon of milk and 1 cup of premade yogurt.

Common Questions

• Can I use plant-based milk?: Yes! Replace milk with your preferred plant-based version and add a little sugar to feed the bacteria.
• How do I make yogurt starter?: Use probiotic capsules or powdered yogurt starter to create your own bacteria-licious starter.

The Bottom Line

Making your own yogurt is surprisingly easy and offers numerous benefits. With a little patience and practice, you can become a master yogurt maker, enjoying a healthier, tastier, and more cost-effective alternative to store-bought options.