Whole milk yogurt is fermented dairy food believed to have been developed in Western Asia and Eastern Europe. It is made from milk that has all its components, and usually contains about 4% fat. While plain yogurt has a slightly sour and tangy taste, whole milk yogurt is available in a variety of other flavors. It is nutritious, and it may offer other health benefits as well. This food can be used by itself or as an ingredient in other dishes, and yogurt can also be made at home.
Depending on nation or region, consumers may find yogurt products in plain or flavored options, made from organic, pastured or conventionally raised livestock. Although the whole milk variety is usually made from cow’s milk, it can also be made from goat’s milk. Soy milk may also be manufactured into a non-dairy version of yogurt.
Whole milk yogurt is a nutritious food; its nutrients are similar to milk. It is rich in calcium, protein, and some types are fortified with Vitamin D. People with lactose intolerance who can’t drink milk may find they can use the whole milk kind, because it contains less lactose. For people whose diet is primarily plant-based, yogurt can increase the availability of zinc, which is important to resisting infections.
When whole milk yogurt contains active cultures, these probiotics may promote health through improving intestinal flora and aiding the immune system. Some of the ailments that may be helped include constipation, inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) and diarrhea. Eating yogurt with active cultures after taking a series of antibiotics may help restore good intestinal bacteria that were killed by the medication.
Whole milk yogurt can be enjoyed by itself, or with other foods. When cooking with yogurt, it can serve as a substitute for sour cream in many recipes. It can also be used as a base for sauces, soups and stews. When baking with yogurt, its acidity can help baked goods rise properly.
Sliced fruit can be topped with a scoop of frozen yogurt for simple desserts. It is a common ingredient in Middle Eastern foods, such as yogurt-cucumber soup and refreshing summer beverages. More adventurous cooks may wish to try making yogurt cheese.
Yogurt is relatively easy to make at home. This option may appeal to people who want to be certain of the ingredients in their yogurt. Homemade yogurt can be started with a small amount of active culture yogurt, which is mixed into heated milk. The solution is placed in jars or tubs, and then incubated in special yogurt makers or ordinary coolers.