A Step-by-Step Guide to Creating Your Own Homemade Probiotic Yogurt
Probiotic yogurt is an excellent way to add healthy bacteria to your diet. Probiotics are beneficial bacteria that can help improve digestion, boost immunity, and even combat yeast infections. Plus, making your own yogurt is incredibly easy, and you can customize it to suit your taste preferences.
What Do You Need?
To make your own yogurt, you will need the following:
- 2 litres of milk (any type of milk will work, but higher fat content for creamier consistency)
- ½ a cup of plain yogurt (either store-bought or made from a previous batch)
- Thermometer
- Jar or container with a lid
Step 1: Heat the Milk
Pour the milk into a large pot and heat it to 180°F, stirring occasionally to prevent scorching. Use a thermometer to check the temperature.
Step 2: Cool the Milk
Once the milk has reached 180°F, remove it from the heat and let it cool to 110°F, stirring occasionally. This can take 30-60 minutes.
Step 3: Add the Yogurt
Once the milk has cooled to 110°F, add the ½ cup of plain yogurt and whisk until it’s fully incorporated.
Step 4: Incubate the Yogurt
Pour the mixture into a jar or container with a lid and cover it with a towel. Place it in a warm spot, such as an oven with the light on or a turned-off slow cooker. Let the mixture sit for 8-12 hours, or until it thickens into yogurt.
Step 5: Refrigerate
Once it’s thickened, refrigerate for at least 2 hours. The yogurt will thicken further as it cools. Save ½ a cup of this homemade yogurt to use as a starter for your next batch!
Customize Your Yogurt
You can customize your yogurt by adding different fruits, honey or maple syrup, vanilla extract or any other flavors of your choice. Yogurt makes for a great breakfast, snack or even a dessert. Enjoy your homemade probiotic yogurt any time of the day!
