Growing up in Bulgaria, I only knew one type of homemade yogurt, I was not aware that our sour tasting and creamy yogurt is famous worldwide for its numerous health benefits. The first time I’ve came across it abroad was in 2016 while travelling in Thailand and I was proud that our small country is kinda famous in Asia. It is indeed one of the things that make us, Bulgarians proud to have given the world one of the healthiest dairy products with heritage that dates back centuries. In this article I will share with you the easy process of homemade yogurt and explain how to use it for optimal health by exploring the benefits of Bulgarian yogurt. The main goal is to show you that it is possible to stop using store bought yogurt and easily make your own probiotic content, as nothing beats homemade, let’s explore why.
The Origins of Bulgarian Yogurt
Historical Background
The history of Bulgarian yogurt dates back over 4,000 years. It is believed that the Thracians, an ancient group who lived in the region that is now my homeland Bulgaria, discovered the fermentation process by accident. They stored milk in animal skins, and the natural bacteria present in the environment led to the fermentation of the milk into yogurt where the benefits of Bulgarian yogurt started to be discovered and loved.
Cultural Significance
Bulgarian yogurt has been a staple in the diet of the people in the Balkans for centuries. As a Bulgarian I grew up with homemade yogurt, not only for breakfast but basically as a part of almost every traditional oven based dish. It is deeply embedded in the culture and traditions of the country. The yogurt is more than just a food source but also a symbol of health and longevity. The long-lived inhabitants of the Rhodope Mountains in Bulgaria attribute their vitality and extended lifespans to the regular consumption of homemade yogurt.
Why Choose Bulgarian Homemade Yogurt?
Health Benefits of Bulgarian Homemade Yogurt
Rich in Probiotics
The rich probiotic content of Bulgarian yogurt are primarily due to Lactobacillus bulgaricus, a specific strain of bacteria that originates in Bulgaria. Along with Streptococcus thermophilus they are essential for the fermentation process. Through this process the formation of healthy gut bacteria is taking place, they help maintain a balanced gut microbiome which as we are all aware is crucial for our overall well-being.
High Nutrient Content
This sour yogurt is a natural source of essential nutrients like calcium, protein, and vitamins B2 and B12. Calcium supports bone health, protein aids in muscle repair and growth, and B vitamins are essential for energy production and brain function.
Unique Taste and Texture
Whoever has tried Bulgarian homemade yogurt has tasted the difference. It has a rich, creamy texture and a bit of a tangy flavour, from where it gets its name as sour yogurt. It it a versatile product that can be easily enjoyed on its own or used in many different recipes, no matter how you use it you will still observe the benefits of Bulgarian yogurt.
Getting Started: What You Need for Homemade Yogurt
Essential Ingredients
Milk
You can use fresh or pasteurised milk for making yogurt, however for achieving best tasting results use fresh whole milk. The reason is that fresh milk will give you a richer texture and flavour. You can use cow, goat or even sheep’s milk, try them all and decide for yourself which is your favorite one.
Bulgarian Yogurt Starter
You need a good quality starter to be able to make good yogurt. Over the years I have tried different ones, however one that stands out for its high quality and bacteria present is the Bulgarian Yogurt Starter from Bacillus Bulgaricus. It’s a family owned company that has been on the market for 20+ years, has over 15k+ testimonials from people all around the world. Their product is all natural, clean and safe to use turning every milk into a delicious yogurt.
Product Highlights
Authentic Bulgarian Heirloom – 25 billion CFU/g, 100% potency guaranteed
Live Active Bacteria – which means that you can reuse yogurt from your previous batch to culture your new batch, for as long as you wish.
Money Saver – Think about all the money saved on buying yogurt from the store.
Necessary Equipment for Homemade Yogurt
Kitchen Thermometer
The old grandmothers way of checking the milk temperature is to put your fingertip in it and if it doesn’t burn you it is ready. However a kitchen thermometer is helpful to ensure that the milk reaches the correct temperature during the heating and cooling process. Ultimately helping you to produce better tasting yogurt.
Clean Containers
For best results we recommend using glass containers to incubate the yogurt. Ensure that they are thoroughly cleaned and sterilized to prevent contamination.
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Bulgarian Homemade Yogurt
Step 1: Heat the Milk
Achieving the Right Temperature
Pour the milk into a saucepan and heat it over low heat until it reaches 180°F (82°C). This step helps to kill any unwanted bacteria and denature the proteins, which is essential for the yogurt to set properly later.
Stirring Consistently
While you are waiting for the milk to boil, it is helpful to stir it occasionally to prevent it from scorching on the bottom of the pan. Use a kitchen thermometer to monitor the temperature accurately.
Step 2: Cool the Milk
Cooling Down
Once the milk has reached its boiling point remove the saucepan from the heat and let the milk cool to 110°F (43°C). For me it usually takes around 30-45 min, depending on the season. If you are in a hurry you can speed up the cooling process by placing the saucepan in an ice bath. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooling.
Step 3: Add the Yogurt Starter
Mixing Thoroughly
Add the Bulgarian yogurt starter to the cooled milk. Use about 1/4 of a tablespoon of starter culture per 1 Liter /quart or 32 oz of milk. Try avoiding using less to ensure there is enough bacteria strains to carry on fermentation. Stir thoroughly to ensure the starter is evenly distributed throughout the milk. At no occasion whisk, as whisking introduces air bubbles in to the milk that slows down the incubation.
Step 4: Incubate the Yogurt
Maintaining Warmth
Pour the milk mixture into your clean containers and cover them. Incubate the yogurt at a consistent temperature of around 110°F (43°C) for 6-8 hours. For the incubation I don’t use any fancy equipment but rather just wrap it in kitchen towels and a warm scarf. I use this method as my grandmother was doing the same, and continuing our traditions is important for me. You can use a yogurt maker, an oven with the light on, or a warm water bath to maintain the temperature. Whichever method you choose its up to personal preferences and convenience.
Checking for Set
After 6-8 hours, check the yogurt. It should be thickened and have a tangy flavor. If you prefer a thicker yogurt, you can incubate it for a few more hours. I usually make it in the late afternoon and leave it overnight.
Step 5: Refrigerate and Enjoy
Cooling the Yogurt
Once the yogurt has set, transfer the containers to the refrigerator. Let the yogurt cool for at least 2 hours before eating. This cooling period helps to further thicken the yogurt and develop its flavor.
Storing Your Homemade Bulgarian Yogurt
Proper Storage Techniques
Refrigeration
Store your homemade yogurt in the refrigerator. It will keep for up to a week. Always use clean utensils to scoop out the yogurt to prevent contamination.
Using Yogurt as a Starter
Continuous Culture
Since the starters from Bacillus Bulgaricus are heirloom, you can use a small amount of your homemade yogurt as a starter for your next batch for as long as you like! Use a cup (200ml) of yogurt for every 3-4 liters of new milk and ensure the yogurt is fresh and free from any contamination. You should get excellent results with yogurts that are less than 7 days old, and ideally try to use your yogurt as a starter by day 4.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Yogurt Didn’t Set
Possible Causes
If your yogurt didn’t set properly, it could be due to several reasons: the milk may not have been heated to the correct temperature, the starter culture may not have been active, or the incubation temperature may have fluctuated.
Solutions
Ensure you heat and cool the milk to the right temperatures, use a fresh and active starter culture, and maintain a consistent incubation temperature.
Yogurt is Too Runny
Thickening Tips
If your yogurt is too runny, try incubating it for a longer period or add a small amount of powdered milk to the milk before heating it. This can help achieve a thicker consistency.
Important note is to not get discouraged if you don’t get it from the first time and continue trying . When I first started I have had different tasting yogurts until I found which milk, containers, temperature, incubation method works best for me.
Tips on Uses of Bulgarian Homemade Yogurt
Culinary Applications
In Traditional Dishes
Bulgarian yogurt is a versatile ingredient used in a variety of traditional dishes. It is a key component in “tarator,” a cold soup made with yogurt, cucumbers, garlic, and dill. It is also used in “ayran,” a refreshing yogurt-based drink, and “kiselo mlyako,” a simple dish of plain yogurt often served with honey or fruit.
As a Cooking Ingredient
Beyond traditional dishes, Bulgarian yogurt can be used as a healthier substitute for sour cream, mayonnaise, and even heavy cream in recipes. Its creamy texture and tangy flavor make it an excellent addition to both savory and sweet dishes, including soups, salads, dips, and desserts.
Health and Wellness
Dietary Benefits
Bulgarian yogurt is a popular choice for those looking to maintain a healthy diet. It is rich in protein, calcium, and essential vitamins, making it a nutritious addition to any meal. It is also lower in sugar compared to many other types of yogurt, making it a healthier option for those mindful of their sugar intake.
Probiotic Properties
The live cultures present in Bulgarian yogurt provide significant probiotic benefits. Probiotics are beneficial bacteria that promote a healthy gut microbiome, aiding in digestion and boosting the immune system. Regular consumption of Bulgarian yogurt can help maintain gut bacteria health, reduce inflammation, and improve overall well-being.
Conclusion
Embrace the Benefits of Homemade Bulgarian Yogurt
By following our guide, you can easily make and enjoy your own Bulgarian yogurt at home. Incorporate this homemade it into your daily routine to experience its full range of health benefits. Whether you enjoy it plain, in recipes, or as part of your wellness regimen, Bulgarian yogurt is a delicious and beneficial food that supports a healthy lifestyle.
Affiliate disclosure: As an affiliate for Bacillus Balgaricus, we may earn commissions from qualifying purchases from their website. Thank you for supporting us! You can learn more about our editorial policies.
References:
https://www.bbc.com/travel/article/20180110-the-country-that-brought-yoghurt-to-the-world
https://lbbulgaricum.bg/en/history-of-the-bulgarian-yoghurt
https://www.huffingtonpost.co.uk/ellis-shuman/bulgarias-secret-to-long-_b_9866820.html
thanks for the great article, keep up the good work
Thank you so much! Glad you enjoyed it!