Combine the Mixtures: Pour the yogurt mixture back into the warm milk and stir gently to combine. If you’d like to add sugar for sweetness, do so at this point and mix well.
Prepare Your Container: Choose a container that can be sealed tightly. You can use a glass jar or a plastic container with a lid. Pour the yogurt-milk mixture into your container, filling it about 3/4 full.
Add Boiling Water: In a separate large bowl or pot, bring water to a boil. Place the container of yogurt into the pot, surrounding it with the hot water (the water should come up to about halfway on the sides of your container, without spilling over into the yogurt). Cover the container with a lid or cloth to keep the warmth in.
Let it Set: Leave the container in a warm, undisturbed area for about 6-12 hours. The longer you leave it, the thicker and tangier the yogurt will become. If you prefer a mild flavor, you can check after 6 hours and refrigerate it once it has set to your liking.
Chill and Serve: Once the yogurt has set to your desired consistency, remove it from the hot water, cover it, and place it in the fridge for a few hours to chill. Once cold, your homemade yogurt is ready to enjoy!
Tips for Serving and Storing
Serving Suggestions: This homemade yogurt can be enjoyed on its own or with various toppings like fresh fruits, honey, granola, or a sprinkle of cinnamon. It also makes an excellent base for smoothies or as a creamy dressing for salads and bowls.
Storage: Store the yogurt in an airtight container in the fridge. It should last for about 5-7 days. Make sure to keep it covered to avoid contamination and preserve its creamy texture.
Variants
Flavored Yogurt: If you prefer flavored yogurt, you can mix in fruits, vanilla extract, or even cocoa powder after the yogurt has set and chilled. Pureed strawberries, mangoes, or blueberries work beautifully!
Greek-Style Yogurt: For a thicker, creamier texture, strain your yogurt through cheesecloth or a fine mesh strainer for a few hours to remove excess whey.
Non-Dairy Yogurt: If you’re avoiding dairy, you can use coconut milk, almond milk, or soy milk as a base. However, the texture and consistency may vary, so be prepared for slight differences.
FAQ
Can I use store-bought yogurt as a starter?
Yes, you can use any plain yogurt with live and active cultures as your starter. Just make sure it doesn’t contain any additives like artificial sweeteners or flavors.
Can I make yogurt without boiling the milk first?
Boiling the milk helps to denature the proteins, ensuring a smooth and creamy texture. Skipping this step might result in yogurt that is a bit more watery or grainy.
What if my yogurt isn’t thick enough?
If your yogurt turns out too thin, you can either let it set for a longer period of time or strain it to remove excess liquid and make it thicker. Alternatively, adding a bit more milk powder during the initial step can help achieve a thicker consistency.
What’s the best temperature for setting yogurt?
A consistent temperature of about 110°F (43°C) is ideal for setting yogurt. Too hot or too cold can affect the culture’s ability to grow properly. Using a warm spot in your kitchen, such as an oven with a light on or a warm towel, can help maintain the right temperature.
Can I reuse the homemade yogurt as a starter for the next batch?
Yes! You can use a couple of tablespoons from your homemade yogurt as the starter for your next batch. However, after several batches, the yogurt may begin to lose its potency, so you may need to purchase a new starter every few months.
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