There are a few ways to make homemade yogurt last longer:

1. Keep it refrigerated: Yogurt should be stored at 4-5° C (40°F) or below to slow down the growth of bacteria.
2. Use sterilized equipment: Make sure to sterilize all the equipment you use to make the yogurt, including jars, spoons, and thermometer.
3. Use high-quality milk: Use milk that is as fresh as possible, and avoid using milk that has been previously frozen.
4. Use the right bacteria: Use a yogurt starter culture or use a small amount of store-bought yogurt as a starter to help ensure a consistent and healthy fermentation process.
5. Avoid adding sweeteners: Sugar can feed bacteria and make yogurt spoil faster, so it’s best to avoid adding sweeteners to the yogurt.

By following these tips, your homemade yogurt should stay fresh for up to 10 days.

basic recipe for making homemade yogurt:

Ingredients:

• 4 cups of whole milk
• 2 tablespoons of plain yogurt (with live active cultures)

Instructions:

1. Pour the milk into a large saucepan and heat over medium heat until it reaches 80°C (180°F), stirring frequently to prevent burning.
2. Remove from heat and let the milk cool to around 42-45°C ( 105-115°F).
3. In a small bowl, mix 2 tablespoons of the warm milk with the 2 tablespoons of plain yogurt to create a starter.
4. Add the yogurt starter to the saucepan with the warm milk and stir to combine.
5. Pour the mixture into a sterilized jar or containers.
6. Cover the jar with a lid or plastic wrap and place in a warm location, such as a turned-off oven with the light on, for 6-12 hours or until the yogurt has thickened.
7. Transfer the jar to the refrigerator and chill for at least 4 hours or overnight.
8. The yogurt is now ready to eat. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 10 days.

Enjoy your homemade yogurt!

By Mehdi Amiri on 04.02.2023