Plain Yogurt

Plain yogurt is a versatile dairy product with a creamy texture and a tangy flavor, used in both sweet and savory dishes. It is not bound by seasonality and is available year-round. Yogurt is a key ingredient in many cuisines, particularly in Middle Eastern, Indian, Greek, and Balkan cooking. It can be eaten on its own, used as a base for sauces and dips, incorporated into marinades to tenderize meats, or added to baked goods for moisture and a slight tang. It's also a popular choice for breakfast bowls, smoothies, and desserts.

Plain Yogurt Synonyms

Unflavored yogurt
natural yogurt

Different Forms/Types of Plain Yogurt

Greek Yogurt

Strained to remove whey, resulting in a thicker consistency and a higher protein content, perfect for dips and spreads.

Icelandic Skyr

Similar to Greek yogurt but even thicker, with a mild flavor, often used as a high-protein snack or dessert base.

Plain Whole Milk Yogurt

Thick and creamy with a rich flavor, suitable for a variety of culinary applications from sauces to marinades.

Low-fat or Non-fat Yogurt

A healthier alternative with a lighter texture and a tangier taste, often used in baking or as a substitute for sour cream.

How to Choose Plain Yogurt

When choosing plain yogurt, look for products with live and active cultures for health benefits. The ingredient list should be short, typically just milk and live cultures. Avoid yogurts with added sugars or artificial sweeteners. The texture should be consistent and creamy. For the best quality, opt for organic or grass-fed dairy yogurts if available.

Cooking/Prep Tips for Plain Yogurt

Plain yogurt is a versatile ingredient that can be used in both sweet and savory dishes. For intermediate and expert home cooks, it's important to consider the fat content of the yogurt when cooking, as it can affect the texture and stability of your dish. Full-fat yogurt is less likely to curdle when heated and provides a richer mouthfeel, making it ideal for creamy sauces and marinades. When using yogurt in hot dishes, it's best to temper it by gradually mixing in some of the hot liquid before adding it to the pot to prevent curdling. Yogurt can also be used as a tenderizer in marinades due to its mild acidity, which breaks down proteins in meats. For cold applications, yogurt can be used straight from the container to add creaminess and tang to dressings, dips, and cold soups.

Shelf Life of Plain Yogurt

Plain yogurt should be stored in the refrigerator at or below 40°F (4°C) and consumed by the 'use by' date on the packaging. To maintain freshness, keep the yogurt sealed tightly when not in use and avoid leaving it out at room temperature for extended periods. If any liquid (whey) separates on the surface, it can be stirred back in before consumption. Do not use yogurt if it has an off smell, taste, or any signs of mold.

Recommended Brands for Plain Yogurt

Greek Yogurt: Fage, Chobani

Icelandic Skyr: Siggi's, Icelandic Provisions

Plain Whole Milk Yogurt: Stonyfield Organic, Fage

Low-fat or Non-fat Yogurt: Chobani, Dannon

Cooking Techniques for Plain Yogurt

Baking: Yogurt can be incorporated into baked goods to add moisture and a slight tang. It's often used in cakes, muffins, and breads as a substitute for buttermilk or sour cream.

Marinating: Yogurt is an excellent base for marinades, especially for meats like chicken or lamb. The lactic acid helps tenderize the meat while imparting flavor. Combine yogurt with spices and herbs, and let the meat marinate for several hours or overnight before cooking.

Finishing Sauces: Stirring yogurt into sauces or soups off the heat adds creaminess and body without the need for heavy cream. Be sure to remove the pot from the heat before incorporating the yogurt to prevent it from curdling.

Popular Plain Yogurt Recipes

Tandoori Chicken
Greek Yogurt Cheesecake
Cold Cucumber Yogurt Soup (Cacik or Tzatziki)

Plain Yogurt Nutritional Information (100g)

fat: 0.4 g
fiber: 0 g
sugar: 3.6 g
protein: 10 g
calories: 59 kcal
carbohydrates: 3.6 g

Flavor Combinations

Plain yogurt pairs well with a variety of flavors and ingredients. It complements fruits like berries, peaches, and mangoes in sweet applications. In savory dishes, it goes well with cucumbers, tomatoes, and herbs such as dill, mint, and cilantro. Spices like cumin, coriander, and paprika also enhance yogurt's flavor. Honey, maple syrup, or a touch of sugar can sweeten yogurt for desserts or breakfast dishes. Additionally, yogurt can be combined with grains like oats or granola, or used as a base for smoothies and dressings.

Allergen Information

Yogurt contains lactose and proteins such as casein and whey, which can trigger allergic reactions in individuals with dairy allergies or lactose intolerance. Symptoms can range from mild digestive discomfort to severe allergic reactions (anaphylaxis). Those with dairy allergies should avoid yogurt and may need to seek out plant-based alternatives.

Recipes with Plain Yogurt

Tandoori Style Chicken Breast

Crispy Skin Salmon with Dukkah Spice Mix and Lime Yogurt Sauce