Greek Yogurt (Printable)

Transform milk into thick, creamy yogurt with this simple method. Strain for extra richness and enjoy with honey, fruit, or in savory dishes.

# What You'll Need:

→ Dairy

01 - 4 cups whole milk
02 - 2 tablespoons plain yogurt with live cultures (starter)

# Step-by-step:

01 - Pour milk into a saucepan and heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until it reaches 180°F. Watch carefully to prevent scorching.
02 - Remove saucepan from heat and let milk cool down to 110°F. This temperature is optimal for activating the live cultures.
03 - In a small bowl, whisk 2 tablespoons of the cooled milk with the yogurt starter until completely smooth and well combined.
04 - Pour the starter mixture back into the cooled milk. Stir gently and thoroughly to distribute the cultures evenly throughout.
05 - Transfer mixture to a clean container, cover, and wrap in a towel to maintain warmth. Place in a warm spot or yogurt maker. Let culture undisturbed for 6 to 8 hours until set.
06 - Line a strainer with cheesecloth and set over a bowl. Pour yogurt into the strainer. Refrigerate for 1 to 2 hours, checking periodically until desired thickness is achieved.
07 - Transfer thickened yogurt to a clean airtight container. Refrigerate until ready to use. Keeps for up to 2 weeks.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • You will never go back to store bought once you taste the difference of freshly made yogurt
  • The straining step transforms ordinary yogurt into something luxuriously thick and creamy
  • Having a steady supply means you can customize flavors exactly how you like them
02 -
  • The milk must reach 180F to properly denature the proteins, otherwise your yogurt will not set correctly
  • Any live culture plain yogurt works as a starter, even an earlier batch of your own homemade yogurt
  • Do not disturb the culturing process, as jostling the container can prevent proper setting
03 -
  • Start your yogurt in the evening so it cultures overnight and is ready to strain in the morning
  • Save 2 tablespoons of each batch to use as starter for your next one, creating an endless supply

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