Store-bought yogurt, while often considered a healthy food choice, may pose issues with its ingredients.
Are you in the habit of checking yogurt labels before purchasing them? Surprisingly, despite yogurt’s reputation as a healthy food, many store-bought varieties are filled with artificial ingredients and added sugars. Making your own yogurt at home is a simple solution to avoid these hidden additives. All it takes is a Mason jar and a warm spot in your kitchen.
Why should you consume yogurt
This superfood is packed with essential nutrients including potassium, phosphorus, riboflavin, iodine, zinc, vitamin B5 (pantothenic acid), calcium, protein, and probiotics. Additionally, it contains B12, which supports red blood cell production and nervous system function. Furthermore, incorporating 18 ounces of yogurt into your daily diet can aid in weight management as its protein content promotes prolonged satiety.
Yogurt’s calcium content contributes to bone health and helps prevent osteoporosis. Research suggests that the probiotics found in yogurt can lower the risk of colon cancer and enhance immune system functionality. Moreover, it offers relief from digestive issues like constipation and diarrhea while preventing yeast infections by facilitating mineral and vitamin absorption.
What’s in commercially produced yogurt
Store-bought yogurt typically originates from cows with limited access to pasture. After fermentation, manufacturers add artificial sweeteners, sugars, high fructose corn syrup, gelatin, artificial flavors, colors, and preservatives.
Why should you make your own yogurt
Crafting yogurt at home is a straightforward process involving cultured milk, natural sweeteners, and fresh fruit. Preparing your own yogurt grants you complete control over the ingredients, allowing for the use of natural sweeteners like honey or maple syrup, thus maintaining the yogurt’s purity and healthfulness.
How to make basic homemade yogurt in a Mason jar
With just a Mason jar and eight hours, you can create homemade yogurt. Start with 3 cups of whole milk and 1/2 cup of plain whole-milk yogurt. Sterilize the Mason jar, heat the milk, whisk in the yogurt, pour the mixture into the jar, cover it with a clean kitchen towel, and let it sit overnight in a warm spot. Remove any excess liquid, seal with a lid, and refrigerate.
How to make homemade yogurt in a yogurt maker
Yogurt enthusiasts can utilize a yogurt maker for convenience. These gadgets allow for the production of seven 5.5-ounce jars of yogurt within 8 to 12 hours. Most yogurt makers feature digital timers, audible ready signals, and automatic shut-off functions.