Taste Method
I taste the yogurt to know when the yogurt is done if especially if something looks different about my batch.
Underdone yogurt will have a taste of “raw milk”.
Done is silky, cultured and smooth.
* It is much like a custard and needs to have the center set without the sides getting too hard. This can be done with a shape (like tall/thin and slender) so there isn't too much in the middle to get stalled.
* Gradually the raw milk is overcome by the cultured taste. This is the peak of excellence where the culturing should stop and it should be refrigerated.
Overdone yogurt, turns a bit sour as the yeast begins to over-grow. Use less time next time.
Think of it as a bell curve…
The first line is under done
The top of the bell curve is done
The third line is over done.
Under Done Over
Find the perfection by tasting it. Write down your culture time and temperature for next time.
Adjust the temperature and or time for
* outside ambient temperature
* volume of yogurt being cultured
* Seasonal temperatures
Intermediate Protocol
Ready to try something else?
A very nice “intermediate” method for a batch is to let the yogurt “culture” for 93 degrees till done at 12 hours.
Then unplug or discontinue the heat and let it slowly cool down for about 4 hours before being refrigerated.
The cultures don’t all do best at the same heat. This lets all the cultures have fun and come to fruition.
If the idea stresses you, stay with the beginners until you want more.
Write again for the advanced protocol when you feel ready.
To know when the yogurt is complete, look for a slowly melting creamy blend with a tart flavor. You may get a slightly runny texture if one used low fat milk in Pakistan than that of full fat ones. When it has thickened and has a nice tart smell, you know it is ready to eat. Modify the culture timing to your flavor profile.