How to Make Greek Yogurt

Warm the milk in a saucepan over medium heat. When you notice steam escaping, remove from heat. Do not let the milk boil. Pour the milk into a glass or earthenware bowl. Avoid using steel bowls. Set aside the milk to cool down, until just lukewarm. To check the milk's temperature, feel the sides of the bowl with your hands. Add 3 tablespoons of yogurt and stir to blend well. Cover with a cloth napkin, and leave it overnight or for twelve hours to ferment. Don't move it from its place, until it is fermented.

After twelve hours, the yogurt will look like a white, thick custard. Place the cheesecloth or muslin cloth into the strainer and place a glass bowl underneath. Using the ladle, spoon the yogurt into the cloth and strain all the whey, until it reaches desired consistency. The straining process will take several hours, so it's best to transfer the yogurt along with the strainer into the fridge. This straining process in the fridge will make the yogurt thicker and creamier. Never strain for more than eight to ten hours as longer duration of straining will turn the yogurt into cheese.

Flavored-Greek Yogurt You can also flavor Greek yogurt. Add an essence or honey in the milk, before you add the live yogurt. For a fruity flavor either add purée or fresh or frozen fruit cut into very small pieces. For those who prefer yogurt to be sweet, blend some dried raisins or berries into paste, and stir in the milk. Remember to add flavor once the milk has cooled down, and before adding the tablespoons of yogurt.

Greek yogurt makes excellent dips, and is more healthy than mayonnaise dips. It can be eaten plain, or with a sprinkle of nuts, or slices of fresh fruit. Now that you know how to make this yummy yogurt, make it at home, and top it with delicious red cherries and a spoonful of honey and watch it being scooped off the table! Enjoy this Greek food recipe!!

By Loveleena Rajeev Last Updated: 11/22/2012 Tweet