Mastering DIY vegetable-based yogurt like a pro
Creating your own vegetable-based yogurt at home is not only a healthier alternative to store-bought options, but also a fun and rewarding culinary adventure. This guide will teach you the art and science of crafting delicious, plant-based yogurt in your own kitchen. With a few simple ingredients, a dash of patience, and a sprinkle of culinary curiosity, you'll be savoring the fruits (or veggies) of your labor in no time.
Choosing your base
Choosing your base is the most crucial part of making veggie yogurt. Almond, coconut, soy, and oat milk are often used because they're creamy and don't have a strong flavor. Make sure to choose unsweetened and unflavored milk to get the best results. The amount of fat in your base will have a big impact on how creamy your yogurt is; more fat = more creaminess.
Preparing your starter
To transform your chosen base into yogurt, a starter culture is essential. You can either use a small portion of store-bought vegetable-based yogurt or a commercially available vegan starter culture. If utilizing store-bought yogurt as your starter, make sure it contains live active cultures for successful fermentation. Generally, two tablespoons of starter per quart of milk are enough.
Fermentation process
After mixing your base with the starter culture, transfer this blend into clean jars or containers. Cover them lightly with lids or a cloth. Next, keep them in a warm location, ideally around 110 degrees Fahrenheit, for six to eight hours. This is the fermentation stage, during which the yogurt will begin to thicken. The longer it ferments, the tangier it gets.
Flavoring your yogurt
Once fermented, plain vegetable-based yogurt can taste pretty...well, plain. To jazz it up, try adding natural sweeteners like maple syrup or agave nectar, a dash of vanilla extract for a lovely aroma, or some blended fruits for a burst of sweetness and color. Remember to stir in these extras after fermentation so you don't mess with those busy little cultures doing their thing.
Storing your yogurt properly
Your homemade vegetable-based yogurt should be transferred to the fridge as soon as it achieves the consistency you want and you've added any flavorings you might want to use. Store it in an air-tight container in the refrigerator. When properly stored at temperatures under 40 degrees Fahrenheit, it can last for up to one week. To avoid contamination and prolong its shelf life, always use clean utensils when serving.
