Thursday, September 17, 2009

Cook With Greek Yogurt

Mediterranean sunset








Richer, creamier and more nutritious than traditional yogurt, Greek yogurt is becoming increasingly popular and more widely available in U.S. supermarkets. Unlike traditional yogurt, Greek yogurt is a delicious substitute for sour cream (as opposed to the less-tasty, low-fat option of traditional yogurt) or buttermilk, and is a satisfying breakfast on its own or with cereal. Here are some steps to try Greek yogurt in your cooking.


Instructions


1. Make your own Greek yogurt by straining traditional yogurt. It's the reduced whey content that makes Greek yogurt so thick and creamy. Put the yogurt in the cheese cloth and hang it over the sink or over a bowl for at least 3 hours, or let it strain overnight in the fridge.


2. Try yogurt with salty foods. Americans tend to eat yogurt sweetened with fruit, but yogurt with meat or vegetables is common in Mediterranean cuisine. Be adventurous and add a spoonful of yogurt to your dinner plate.


3. Mix one or two cloves of pressed garlic and a teaspoon of salt with a cup of Greek yogurt for a fast, delicious and healthy topping for pasta or ravioli.


4. Substitute Greek yogurt for sour cream and/or mayonnaise in your favorite dip mixes for a tasty, low-fat option. Your guests probably won't even notice the difference.


5. Don't overheat yogurt or cook it too quickly, as it will curdle. This doesn't really affect the taste, but it doesn't look nice.

Tags: Greek yogurt, traditional yogurt, low-fat option, sour cream, traditional yogurt Greek, yogurt Greek, yogurt Greek yogurt