YOGURT TIPS AND TRICKS

 YOGURT TIPS

• If stored at a refrigerator temperature of 35-45 degrees F yogurt will keep fresh for up to two weeks.

• The fresher when used, the better is the yogurt's flavor and consistency.

• Yogurt  can be a healthy substitute for mayonnaise, sour cream in dips and salad dressings.

• Yogurt can be substituted for sour cream or buttermilk in baked recipes. When substituting buttermilk with yogurt, thin the yogurt with a little water or milk to the right consistency.

• Do not use aluminum pans when preparing anything with yogurt. The acid in the yogurt will react with the aluminum. 

• Serve yogurt cold to preserve the beneficial bacteria that contributes to a healthy digestive tract.

• The most popular additions to yogurt are honey, fruit, and granola however, yogurt can also withstand being added to bold additions such as chilli.

• Eight ounces of yogurt equals 1 cup.

• Three cups of yogurt will produce 1 cup of yogurt cheese.

YOGURT TRICKS

• Yogurt becomes sharper with age but for those who want it extra sharp making yogurt cheese is a good way to use up aged yogurt.

• Yogurt makes an effective marinade to tenderize meats due to its acidic properties, yogurt breaks down the protein strands in the meat. The basic marinade consists of lemon juice and plain yogurt. You can also use yogurt to brush on meat as it cooks.

• Yogurt produces a leavening effect when combined with baking soda.

• Like heavy cream, yogurt can be used to thicken sauces (see how to cook yogurt) and the best part is yogurt lacks the fat in heavy cream. Though remember to whisk as it simmers and thickens and never let it boil.

• Yogurt tenderizes baked goods and helps keep them moist, particularly in breads. As the yogurt reacts with baking soda and baking powder, it produces tiny air bubbles that add height and texture to your baked goods. In using yogurt for baking, add 1/2 teaspoon (2.5ml) baking soda for each cup of yogurt used.

References:
http://www.ehow.com
http://cooking-ingredients.com
http://www.bbcgoodfood.com
http://www.diabetic-lifestyle.com
http://www.homecooking.about.com