How to keep yogurt fresh and thick

Homemade yogurt sometimes becomes too sour or develops a layer of water on top even when kept in the refrigerator.

But have you ever wondered why this happens?

According to experts the taste and thickness of yogurt depend on several factors, including the quality of milk temperature setting time and the amount of starter yogurt used.

Indian doctor Nethra explains that one of the main reasons yogurt becomes watery is a lack of fat and other solid ingredients in the milk.

Moving or shaking the container too often while the yogurt is setting can also affect its texture and cause water to separate. Experts explain that yogurt contains beneficial bacteria that turn the natural sugar in milk into lactic acid. This process gives yogurt its slightly sour taste. However if yogurt is kept in a warm place for too long or too much old yogurt is used as a starter the process becomes faster.

Keeping yogurt in the refrigerator slows down this process but does not stop it completely.

How to keep Homemade Yogurt thick and fresh

Here are some simple tips to improve the taste and texture of homemade yogurt.

Boil the milk first and allow it to cool until it is slightly warm.

Add a small amount of fresh yogurt as a starter.

Cover the container and place it in a warm spot without moving or shaking it.

Once the yogurt has set put it in the refrigerator to help maintain its taste and thickness.

Remember a little water on the surface of yogurt is normal and does not necessarily mean it has gone bad.  You can simply stir it back into the yogurt before eating.