Da Lat, Vietnam, is renowned for its cool climate and lush landscapes, but did you know it's also a hidden gem for dairy lovers? This unique region produces a wonderfully creamy and fragrant cheese, perfect for transforming into a delightful homemade yogurt. Unlike its counterparts, Da Lat cheese yogurt boasts a subtly sweet and tangy flavor profile, owing to the high-quality milk sourced from the area's thriving dairy farms. Its rich texture is a testament to the natural quality of the ingredients, creating a yogurt experience unlike any other. Imagine spreading this creamy goodness on toast, adding it to your favorite smoothie, or simply enjoying it on its own.
This recipe unlocks the secret to creating this exceptional Da Lat cheese yogurt in the comfort of your own kitchen. Using simple ingredients and readily available equipment, you'll soon be enjoying the fresh, delightful taste of this unique dairy treat. Follow the step-by-step guide below, and prepare to be amazed by the results!
Tools Needed
- Pot
- Sieve (optional)
- Spoon
- Yogurt jars
- Styrofoam box or ice box
Ingredients
- Fresh milk: 2 liters
- Cheese (Laughing Cow or hamburger cheese): 150g
- Sweetened condensed milk: 380g
- Yogurt starter: 1 jar
- Butter: 50g
- Water: 50ml
- Milk powder: 20g
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Prepare the Cheese Base
- In a pot, combine 150g of cheese and 50ml of water. Cook over low heat, stirring until the cheese melts. A smoother mixture can be achieved by straining through a sieve, but it's not necessary for home cooking.
- Add 380g of sweetened condensed milk to the melted cheese mixture. Stir well and add 20g of milk powder, stirring until dissolved.
- Add 50g of butter to the milk mixture and stir until completely melted. The ratio of butter to cheese can be adjusted to your preference (1:3, 2:3, or 3:1).
Step 2. Combine and Heat Milk
- Gradually pour in 2 liters of fresh milk, keeping the heat low. Stir continuously.
Step 3. Ferment and Cool
- Turn off the heat and let the mixture cool to a warm temperature (test by dripping a few drops on your hand). This should take about 2-3 minutes.
- Add one jar of yogurt starter and stir well. Using more starter and unsweetened yogurt will speed up the fermentation process.
- Pour the mixture into clean and sterilized jars (glass jars should be boiled first). Place the jars in a styrofoam box or ice box, seal it and incubate for 6-8 hours or 15-16 hours for a more sour yogurt.
Step 4. Chill and Serve
- After incubation, let the yogurt sit at room temperature for about half an hour to an hour. Then, refrigerate uncovered for about an hour to allow the yogurt to cool and evaporate excess moisture. Finally, cover the jars and refrigerate completely.
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Tips
- For a stronger cheese flavor, use more milk powder.
- Adjust the butter-to-cheese ratio based on your preference for butter or cheese flavor.
- Avoid heat shock by not exposing the yogurt to extreme temperature changes during the incubation process.
- Using a styrofoam box or ice box for incubation eliminates the need for a water bath.
Nutrition
- N/A
FAQs
1. Can I use regular cheese instead of Da Lat cheese?
While you can experiment, Da Lat cheese's unique flavor and fat content contribute significantly to the yogurt's texture and taste. Using another cheese may result in a different final product.
2. How long can I store the homemade Da Lat cheese yogurt?
Store your yogurt in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It should last for 3-5 days.
Making Da Lat cheese yogurt at home is a rewarding experience, bringing the unique flavors of Vietnam to your kitchen. Enjoy the creamy, fragrant result as a healthy and delicious snack or ingredient in your favorite recipes. Now go forth and create your own batch of this delectable yogurt!