Greek yogurt with peaches

Greek Yogurt with Peaches: A Creamy Delight for Indulgent Moments

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 8 hours
Total time: 8 hours and 15 minutes
Number of servings: 4 servings

Welcome to the delicious world of Greek yogurt with peaches! This simple yet spectacular recipe combines the creamy texture of Greek yogurt with the natural sweetness of peaches, making it a perfect breakfast or snack. Greek yogurt is not only delicious but also packed with nutritional benefits, being an excellent source of protein, calcium, and probiotics.

The history of Greek yogurt is fascinating, with deep roots in the culinary traditions of ancient civilizations. It has been valued over time for its rich texture and refined taste, becoming a versatile ingredient in numerous recipes. Adding peaches, with their fresh and juicy aroma, transforms this dish into a true explosion of flavor.

Ingredients:
- 1 liter of pasteurized cow's milk
- 150 g of Greek yogurt (ideally, use one with high fat content for a creamier texture)
- A pinch of salt
- 1 jar of peach compote (about 400 g, but you can adjust according to your preferences)
- 1 tablespoon of chia seeds (optional, but recommended for an extra boost of nutrients and an interesting texture)

Step by Step:

1. Prepare the Slow Cooker: Start by ensuring your slow cooker is clean and ready to use. Set it to low temperature. A 3.5 L slow cooker is ideal for this recipe, but make sure the milk does not exceed its capacity.

2. Add the Milk: Pour the pasteurized cow's milk into the slow cooker. It's important to use quality milk, as it will influence the final texture and taste of the yogurt. Whole milk will yield a creamier yogurt.

3. Incorporate the Yogurt: Add the Greek yogurt over the milk. Make sure the yogurt is at room temperature for easier mixing. Use a spatula or whisk to gently stir, being careful not to create air bubbles.

4. Add the Salt: Sprinkle a pinch of salt. This ingredient helps enhance flavors and preserve the yogurt. Don’t overdo it with the salt, as the goal is not to make a salty yogurt, but to improve the taste.

5. The Fermentation Project: Cover the slow cooker with a lid and let it cook for 8 hours on the slow cooking mode. Fermenting the yogurt is essential; during this time, the bacteria in the yogurt will turn the milk into yogurt. If you prefer a tangier yogurt, you can let it ferment for up to 10 hours.

6. Add the Peaches: After 8 hours, check the yogurt. It should be firm and have a creamy texture. You can add the peach compote, well-drained of liquid, to avoid diluting the yogurt. Gently stir to distribute the peaches evenly.

7. Chia Seeds: If you choose to use chia seeds, add them now. They not only provide a pleasant texture but are also an excellent source of omega-3, fiber, and protein. Let the yogurt sit for a few minutes for the seeds to absorb the liquid and swell.

8. Cooling: Transfer the yogurt to an airtight container and let it cool in the refrigerator. This is the perfect time to think about how you want to serve the yogurt.

Serving Suggestions:
Greek yogurt with peaches can be served plain, but for an extra flavor boost, try adding a drizzle of honey, some toasted nuts, or granola. These ingredients not only enhance the taste but also add a crunchy texture that perfectly contrasts with the creaminess of the yogurt.

Possible Variations:
If you want to experiment, you can replace the peaches with other seasonal fruits like mango, strawberries, or raspberries. Each fruit will add a unique note, and the yogurt will always have a new flavor. You can also try different types of yogurt (for example, soy or coconut yogurt) for a vegan option.

Frequently Asked Questions:
- Can skim milk be used? Yes, but the yogurt will be less creamy. We recommend whole milk for the best results.
- How can I tell if the yogurt is ready? The yogurt should be firm to the touch and have a pleasant, tangy aroma.
- Can I use the yogurt as a base for other recipes? Absolutely! Greek yogurt is an excellent base for sauces, salad dressings, or even desserts.

Nutritional Benefits:
Greek yogurt is an excellent source of protein, helping to maintain muscle mass and support immune health. It also contains probiotics that help maintain digestive health. Peaches are rich in vitamins A and C, as well as antioxidants, helping to protect the body from oxidative stress.

This Greek yogurt with peaches is more than just a simple recipe; it’s an invitation to indulge in a healthy and delicious treat. Whether you serve it for breakfast, as a snack between meals, or a light dessert, each bite will bring a smile to your face. Enjoy it and savor every moment spent with this delight!