Creamy yogurt - Homemade

Homemade Creamy Yogurt: A Delicacy Cooked with Love

Yogurt is a staple food in many cultures, appreciated not only for its delicious taste but also for its nutritional benefits. Whether you use it in smoothies, as a base for sauces, or simply as a healthy snack, yogurt creates a connection between tradition and modernity. In this recipe, I will show you how to make creamy homemade yogurt that will surely surpass any store-bought yogurt.

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Fermentation time: 10 hours
Total: 10 hours and 15 minutes
Number of servings: 10

Ingredients:
- 3 liters of whole milk
- 3 to 6 tablespoons of powdered milk (add more for creamier yogurt)
- 350 g of natural yogurt (as a starter)

Follow these steps to achieve perfect yogurt:

1. Heat the Milk: Start by placing the milk in a pot on the stove over low heat. It is essential not to let it boil, so watch it closely. When it starts to form a frothy skin on top, it's time to turn off the heat. If you have a food thermometer, the ideal temperature is between 78-80°C.

2. Cool the Milk: Let the milk cool until it reaches a comfortable temperature, between 30-35°C. You can check the temperature by dipping your finger into the milk; it should be warm but not hot.

3. Prepare the Yogurt Mixture: In a separate bowl, mix the yogurt with the powdered milk. This mixture will help create a creamy and rich texture for your yogurt.

4. The Magic Combination: Pour the yogurt and powdered milk mixture into the warm milk and stir well. Make sure everything is well combined.

5. Fermentation: Place the mixture in a lidded container. Cover the container with a double towel to retain heat, which is essential for fermentation. Let it sit for 10 hours in a warm place.

6. Cooling: After the 10 hours of fermentation, take the yogurt container and place it in the refrigerator. The yogurt will continue to improve in taste and texture as it cools.

Practical Tips:
- Starter Culture: For the first preparation, it is important to use natural yogurt (without additives) as a starter. I used Nutriday natural, but any quality yogurt will work.
- The Right Container: If you have a clay pot, use it! Yogurt will ferment better here and will have superior taste and texture.
- Adjust Sweetness: Initially, the yogurt may seem a bit sweet, but don't worry, the taste will change and become more tart within 2-3 days of refrigeration.

Nutritional Benefits:
Yogurt is an excellent source of protein, calcium, and probiotics, which help maintain digestive health. By consuming homemade yogurt, you avoid the additives and preservatives found in commercial yogurts, thus improving your nutritional intake.

Frequently Asked Questions:
- Can I use skim milk?: Yes, but the yogurt will not be as creamy. If you prefer a leaner version, add a few tablespoons of powdered milk to compensate.
- How long does yogurt last?: Yogurt can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 weeks.
- Can I use yogurt as a starter for the next batches?: Absolutely! Save a few tablespoons of the prepared yogurt to use for the next round.

Possible Variations:
- Flavored Yogurt: You can add natural flavors like vanilla extract, honey, or fresh fruits to create a personalized yogurt.
- Greek Yogurt: If you want a denser yogurt, you can strain the yogurt through a cheesecloth to remove excess whey.

Serving:
Your homemade yogurt is perfect served plain or with a topping of fresh fruits, granola, or even a drizzle of honey. You can turn it into a delicious smoothie by adding a banana and a splash of milk!

I encourage you to try this simple homemade yogurt recipe, which not only will satisfy your taste buds but will also make you feel good knowing that you prepared a healthy and tasty product from your own kitchen. I promise that once you've tasted your own yogurt, you won't go back to store-bought ones!