Cómo preparar un yogurt natural
Preparing your own natural yogurt at home is a delightful and rewarding experience. It allows you to control the ingredients, ensuring that your yogurt is free from artificial additives and preservatives. Not only is homemade yogurt healthier, but it also tastes fresher and more authentic. In this article, we will guide you through the process of making your own natural yogurt, from start to finish.
Ingredients
To make natural yogurt, you will need the following ingredients:
– 1 quart (946 ml) of whole milk or 2% milk
– 1/4 cup (60 ml) of plain, whole-fat Greek yogurt (as a starter)
– A clean, non-reactive pot
– A candy thermometer
– A sterile container with a lid (for culturing the yogurt)
– A refrigerator
Instructions
1. Heat the milk: Pour the milk into the pot and heat it over medium heat. Stir occasionally to prevent the milk from sticking to the bottom of the pot. Once the milk reaches a temperature of 180°F (82°C), remove it from the heat and let it cool down to 110°F (43°C). This process is called scalding and it helps to kill any bacteria that might be present in the milk.
2. Prepare the starter: While the milk is cooling, take a small bowl and add the Greek yogurt. Using a whisk, stir the yogurt until it is smooth and creamy. This will help to ensure that the yogurt cultures are evenly distributed throughout the milk.
3. Combine the milk and starter: Once the milk has cooled to 110°F (43°C), pour it into the sterile container. Add the Greek yogurt mixture to the milk and stir gently to combine. Cover the container with a lid and set it aside.
4. Culture the yogurt: Place the container in the refrigerator and let it sit for at least 8 hours, or overnight. During this time, the yogurt cultures will multiply and ferment the milk, turning it into yogurt.
5. Chill and serve: After the yogurt has been cultured, give it a final stir to ensure that it is evenly thickened. Cover the container with a lid and return it to the refrigerator for an additional 2-3 hours to chill. Once chilled, your natural yogurt is ready to be served.
Enjoy your homemade yogurt:
Now that you have prepared your own natural yogurt, you can enjoy it as is or use it as a base for various recipes, such as smoothies, parfaits, or as a topping for desserts. Making your own yogurt is not only a fun and educational activity but also a great way to save money and ensure that you are consuming a high-quality, nutritious product. Happy yogurt-making!
