Yogurt
Varieties
Yogurt is available in many varieties, best described by their characteristics:
-
Milk type
In addition to yogurt made from regular cows’ milk, some yogurts are made from goats’ milk.
-
Yogurt culture
American yogurt originally contained only Lactobacillus acidophilus, L. thermophilus, and L. bulgaricus cultures. Yogurts are now available with added bifidobacteria and other beneficial lactic-acid bacteria.
-
Fat content
Yogurt can be purchased with a range of fat content, from cream-on-top style to fat-free.
-
Flavoring
Varieties include the different flavors of plain yogurts, and yogurts sweetened with sugar, honey, maple syrup, or fruit juice; some yogurt contains fruit preserves.
-
Texture
Some yogurts are thick and rich; others, such as Greek yogurt and others made in the Eastern European style, are very smooth; yet another variety is a beverage drink that resembles Kefir, and yogurt products are available in many other styles as well.
Preparation, Uses, & Tips
Yogurt can be a simple, wholesome snack, eaten with fresh fruit, nuts, or hearty bread. It is a healthy substitute in recipes calling for sour cream, even though cooking destroys its friendly bacteria. Often the best approach to yogurt is to enjoy it as-is, and that can include using it as a substitute for milk with breakfast cereal.
Storing
Like other fresh cultured-milk products, yogurt can be kept for up to a week in the refrigerator.