Vietnamese Yogurt (Sữa Chua)
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This delightful Vietnamese Yogurt, also known as Sữa Chua, is a silky, tangy, and lightly sweetened treat that is both refreshing and nutritious. Unlike the thicker Greek yogurts, this version is more liquid and has a unique flavor that comes from the use of sweetened condensed milk. It’s a popular snack as well as a breakfast option in Vietnam and is quite easy to make at home with just a few ingredients.
###Ingredients###
– 1 can (14 ounces) sweetened condensed milk
– 2 cups hot water (not boiling)
– 4 cups whole milk
– 1 plain yogurt (6-8 ounces) containing live and active cultures
###Instructions###
1. **Dissolve sweetened condensed milk**: In a large bowl, mix the sweetened condensed milk with the hot water until completely dissolved.
2. **Add whole milk**: Pour in the whole milk and stir until combined.
3. **Incorporate the yogurt**: Add the plain yogurt into the mixture and stir until it’s completely incorporated. This yogurt is the source of live cultures necessary for fermentation.
4. **Strain the mixture**: For a smooth texture, strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve into another bowl to remove any undissolved bits.
5. **Pour into jars**: Pour the yogurt mixture into individual glass jars or containers, leaving a little room at the top as the yogurt will thicken and expand slightly.
6. **Fermentation process**: Place the jars in a large container, and fill it with warm water about halfway up the jars. Cover with a towel to keep it warm (ideally around 110°F / 43°C) and let it sit undisturbed for about 6-8 hours or overnight. The longer it sits, the tangier it will become.
7. **Chill the yogurt**: Once it’s reached your desired tanginess, transfer the jars to the refrigerator for at least 2 hours before eating. Chilling will help the yogurt set further and improve the texture.
8. **Serve and enjoy**: Enjoy your Vietnamese Yogurt plain, or mix it with a bit of fresh fruit, honey, or granola.
This recipe yields a smooth, creamy, and mildly tangy yogurt that’s perfect as a snack or breakfast. With its easy preparation and delightful taste, it’s sure to become a favorite!
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