Greek Yogurt

[Malynn]

I've been hearing so many good things about Greek Yogurt, so I tried some today. It is absolutely awesome! It is the texture of soft cream cheese and is not tart at all. Since I'm wanting to start making my own yogurt, I was wondering if anyone knew how to make Greek Yogurt.

[Malynn]

Here is a recipe that I found, online:
http://greekfood.about.com/od/syrups...ake_yogurt.htm

Yiaourti: Greek Recipe for Homemade Yogurt

From Nancy Gaifyllia, former About.com Guide

In Greek: γιαούρτι, pronounced yee-ah-OOR-tee

This is a basic recipe for homemade yogurt using commercial full fat milk. The yogurt is delicious as is, but can be made into the thick yogurt that is such a favorite in Greek cooking by straining.
Ingredients:

* 1 quart (32 ounces) of full fat sheep or cow's milk (pasteurized)
* 2 tablespoons of previously homemade yogurt or plain unflavored yogurt with active live cultures
* 2 tablespoons of full fat milk (same type)

Preparation:

Start with all ingredients at room temperature.

1. Heat the milk just to the boiling point and pour into a non-metal container.
2. Let cool to lukewarm (100-105F). A skin will form on top.
3. Mix the 2 tablespoons of yogurt (homemade or commercial) with 2 tablespoons of milk.
4. Add to the lukewarm mixture, carefully pouring down the side so that any skin that may have formed on top is not disturbed.
5. Cover with a clean dishtowel and place on another towel in a warm, dry place for at least 8 hours (or overnight) until it thickens.
Note: 8 to 12 hours is best. The longer the yogurt coagulates beyond that time, the more sour the taste becomes.
6. Carefully drain any excess liquid.
7. Refrigerate for 4 hours before using.
8. Store in the refrigerator and use within 4-5 days.
9. Don't forget to save a small amount to make the next batch!

The yogurt can be eaten as is, along with the creamy skin on top.

[Suselit]

I make my 'greek' yogurt by putting my home made yogurt in a strainer lined with a coffee filter...this goes over a bowl to catch the whey and is placed in the fridge for a day.

[Malynn]

That is very interesting, Suse. I will have to try that.

[Suselit]

Have you made your Greek yogurt yet?
I always use the whey (liquid) as a facial...it's kinda like a buttermilk facial.