Experience the wholesome simplicity of Mediterranean cooking with this delightful Homemade Yogurt recipe, a perfect addition to your healthy lifestyle. Crafted with just two ingredients—whole milk and plain Greek yogurt with active cultures—this recipe delivers creamy, protein-packed yogurt that's rich in probiotics and free from unnecessary additives. With minimal hands-on prep time and the magic of slow fermentation, you'll create a luscious, tangy treat that pairs beautifully with honey, nuts, or fresh fruit for a light breakfast or snack. Following Mediterranean Diet principles, this homemade yogurt is an easy, nourishing staple that will elevate your everyday meals. Ideal for health-conscious food lovers seeking natural, DIY alternatives, this recipe is not only delicious but also incredibly rewarding to make!
In a large pot, heat 1 liter of whole milk over medium heat until it reaches a temperature of 85°C (185°F). Stir occasionally to prevent scorching.
Once the milk reaches 85°C (185°F), remove it from the heat and allow it to cool down to 45°C (113°F). This cooling process is crucial to avoid killing the live cultures.
In a small bowl, mix 3 tablespoons of plain Greek yogurt with a small amount of the cooled milk until smooth. This will act as your starter culture.
Add the starter culture mixture back into the pot of cooled milk and stir gently but thoroughly to combine.
Transfer the mixture into a clean, insulated container or thermos to maintain the temperature. Alternatively, you can place the pot in an oven preheated to its lowest setting and then turned off.
Let the mixture ferment undisturbed for 8-10 hours or overnight. The longer it ferments, the tangier the yogurt will become.
After fermentation, check the yogurt. It should be thick and slightly tangy.
Refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving. The yogurt will thicken more as it cools.
Optional: For a creamier consistency, strain the yogurt using a muslin cloth or cheesecloth for a few hours to remove excess whey.
Serve chilled as is or with your choice of toppings such as honey, nuts, or fresh fruits following Mediterranean Diet guidelines.
Calories |
659 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 33.2 g | 43% | |
| Saturated Fat | 19.3 g | 97% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 1.1 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 125 mg | 42% | |
| Sodium | 410 mg | 18% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 49.6 g | 18% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 0.0 g | 0% | |
| Total Sugars | 50.8 g | ||
| Protein | 38.8 g | 78% | |
| Vitamin D | 11.3 mcg | 57% | |
| Calcium | 1314 mg | 101% | |
| Iron | 0.0 mg | 0% | |
| Potassium | 1619 mg | 34% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.