Slow cooker yogurt –Discover a delightful way to enjoy creamy, homemade Greek yogurt right in your slow cooker. This simple recipe brings the flavors of fresh yogurt to your kitchen without the fuss of traditional methods. With just a few ingredients and minimal preparation, you can achieve a luscious, homemade staple that will elevate your meals and snacks. Below, we detail the necessary ingredients and step-by-step instructions to create this healthy treat.
Homemade Greek Yogurt In Your Slow Cooker
Creating Greek yogurt at home is not only satisfying but also offers a world of culinary possibilities. Use it in parfaits, smoothies, or simply enjoy it plain or with your favorite toppings.
Ingredients
- 1 gallon whole milk
- 1 cup plain yogurt (with live cultures)
- Salt to taste (optional)
Instructions
- Pour the whole milk into the slow cooker and cover with the lid. Set the slow cooker to ‘low’ and let it heat for about 2-3 hours, until it reaches 185°F. You can use a kitchen thermometer to check the temperature.
- Once the milk has heated, turn off the slow cooker and leave the lid on. Allow the milk to cool down to about 110°F, which will take approximately 1-2 hours.
- In a separate bowl, mix the plain yogurt with a little bit of the cooled milk until smooth. This step helps to temper the yogurt and incorporate it into the warm milk.
- Stir the yogurt mixture back into the slow cooker with the warm milk, ensuring that it is evenly distributed.
- Tightly cover the slow cooker with a towel to insulate it, and leave it on ‘keep warm’ for 8-12 hours. The longer it sits, the tangier the yogurt will become.
- After the incubation period, taste your yogurt. If it has reached your desired tanginess, transfer it to a clean container. If you prefer a thicker Greek yogurt, line a strainer with cheesecloth or a clean kitchen towel over a bowl, and pour in the yogurt. Allow it to drain in the refrigerator for 2-4 hours.
- If desired, add a pinch of salt to the yogurt for flavor. Store the yogurt in airtight containers in the refrigerator, where it will keep for up to 2 weeks.
Your homemade Greek yogurt can be served with fresh fruits, honey, or even granola for a delicious breakfast or healthy snack. Enjoy the process and the delightful rewards of your effort!