it was inevitable....my mother is a cook ( i would say chef ) and i've always loved what she served us and she has always taken great care in providing us with healthy & delicious meals. i was inspired to do the same for my family & i hope my daughters do the same for theirs. i feel bad when i hear about young ladies getting married & not knowing how to cook anything but boxed mac & cheese. actually, last week was the first time that i made baked ziti & i've been married almost 10 years. i know some people make it once a week (which is fine if that's what they want to keep doing, but for those who are looking for a change, I thought I'd give some inspiration). and so, i have started a food blog to help get some creative juices flowing.

Tuesday, December 21, 2010

how to make yogurt




you will need 4 quart jars plus a pint jar ( with lids & bands of course ;))
1 gallon whole milk
1 starter ~i use a 6 oz. Dannon yogurt...vanilla or plain.
I've had problems with other kinds. once made, you may use the small leftover pint jar to start your next batch
1-2 Tablespoons vanilla
1 Tablespoon cornstarch (to make thicker)
1/2 to 1 cup sugar
large enough cooler for jars & 1 gallon water


Pour 1 gallon whole milk in a large heavy bottom pot
( i prefer enameled cast iron)
bring to 180 degrees F.stirring consistantly so as not to burn the bottom.
Put the pot into a sink filled with cold water ( NOT if it's cast iron..it will crack. then you'll need to pour it into another pot).
Let it cool until 120 degrees F and then add the yogurt starter, stirring well with whisk.
if you'd like to add vanilla & sugar...do so now. 1-2 Tablespoons vanilla
1/2 - 1 cup sugar.
I added 1 Tablespoon cornstarch to thicken.
stir very well until all ingredients are incorporated.
pour into quart jars (spoon off bubbles that are on top)
& seal w/ lids & bands
place in a large cooler & add 1 gallon warm water 120 degrees.
Put lid on & keep aside in a warm place away from drafts for 3 hours.
refridgerate overnight.

once you make it a few times you'll realize it's not that hands-on & you can multi-task.








No comments:

Post a Comment