Vegan Yogurt FAQs

  • When choosing a base for your probiotic yogurt, opt for canned coconut milk or cream. For the most authentic taste and texture, fresh blended coconut reigns supreme. The rich flavor derived from fresh coconut meat is truly unrivaled. Be wary of using coconut milk from a carton, as it lacks the thickening properties necessary for achieving a satisfyingly creamy yogurt consistency.

  • When aiming for a thicker yogurt consistency, consider reducing the amount of liquid used in the mixture. If fresh creamed coconut is part of your recipe, lessen the quantity of coconut water. Similarly, if using canned creamed coconut, decrease the amount of water beneath the milk or cream. Ensuring the desired thickness before beginning the fermentation process is crucial, as the consistency will remain relatively unchanged throughout.

  • After the yogurt has been chilled, it will have a substantial firmness to it, which can sometimes catch one off guard — it's truly firm. However, a simple solution exists: a thorough stirring. By incorporating a vigorous stirring motion, the yogurt will gradually revert to its original consistency. Moreover, this stage presents an opportunity to influence the yogurt's texture to your preference - the more you stir, the more it tends towards a thinner consistency.

  • Although the vegan yogurt starter directions here are mesophilic, this can be made in a yogurt maker. You may or may not need thickeners, and we highly recommend activating at room temperature and experimenting with thermophilic preparations with some extra cultures you have AFTER its completely activated. Be sure to save a tablespoon or two (as insurance) from the last batch just in case something happens.

  • Sometimes coconut yogurt will develop a certain tangy smell that can be rather strong. While it may seem concerning, this issue is entirely reversible and preventable, so there's no need to discard it hastily - the coconut yogurt is perfectly fine! This occurrence typically occurs due to a few specific factors that we have identified. We decided this subject need its own page. Click here to troubleshoot stinky vegan yogurt.

  • You have the option to ferment the versatile coconut culture not only for coconut milk but also for various other non-dairy alternatives. You can judiciously utilize any surplus starter you have for this exciting endeavor. Remember to set aside some backup culture for future batches, ensuring you have a fail-safe for your coconut yogurt starter.

  • You will want to consume the freshly made yogurt promptly. Therefore, it is advisable to reconsider producing large quantities. Given its quick readiness compared to dairy yogurts, there should be no issue with enjoying it soon after preparation.