Coconut Milk Yogurt Recipe Vegan Using Culture Tips

If you’ve ever wanted to enjoy creamy, tangy yogurt without dairy, making your own coconut milk yogurt at home is a delightful and rewarding kitchen adventure. This vegan recipe uses live cultures to ferment rich coconut milk, resulting in a luscious, probiotic-rich yogurt that’s perfect for breakfast bowls, smoothies, or as a versatile ingredient in your favorite dishes.

Unlike store-bought versions that can contain additives and preservatives, homemade coconut milk yogurt is pure, fresh, and fully customizable to your taste preferences.

Whether you’re vegan, lactose intolerant, or simply exploring healthier alternatives, this recipe offers a straightforward approach to crafting your own dairy-free yogurt. Plus, it’s a great way to boost gut health naturally.

Grab your culture starter, a few pantry staples, and let’s dive into the creamy world of coconut milk yogurt!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This coconut milk yogurt recipe is a game-changer for anyone looking to enjoy plant-based probiotics. It’s:

• Vegan and dairy-free, making it accessible for all dietary preferences.
• Rich and creamy with a naturally tangy flavor that rivals traditional yogurt.
• Highly customizable — add vanilla, fruit, or sweeteners to suit your taste.
• Economical and simple to make with minimal ingredients and equipment.
• Packed with probiotics thanks to the live cultures, supporting digestive health.

Ingredients

• 2 cans (13.5 oz each) full-fat coconut milk – canned coconut milk works best for creaminess
• 1 tablespoon agar agar powder or optional for thickening
• 1-2 probiotic capsules (ensure they are dairy-free and contain live cultures) or a vegan yogurt starter culture
• 1 tablespoon maple syrup or other natural sweetener (optional, helps activate cultures)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional for flavor)

Equipment

• Medium saucepan
• Whisk
• Glass or ceramic fermentation jar with lid
• Thermometer (to monitor temperature)
• Clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth to cover jar
• Spoon or spatula
• Strainer (optional, if you prefer smoother yogurt)

Instructions

1. Prepare the coconut milk: Shake the cans of coconut milk well before opening. Pour the coconut milk into a medium saucepan.
2. Heat and thicken: Add agar agar powder if using, and whisk to combine. Slowly heat the coconut milk over medium heat, whisking frequently. Bring it to a gentle simmer and cook for 5 minutes until agar agar dissolves completely. This helps achieve a thicker yogurt texture.
3. Cool to culture temperature: Remove the saucepan from heat and let the coconut milk cool to about 110°F (43°C). Use a thermometer for accuracy — too hot and you risk killing the cultures.
4. Add sweetener and flavor: Stir in the maple syrup and vanilla extract if using. These ingredients encourage the fermentation process and add a mild sweetness.
5. Inoculate with cultures: Open the probiotic capsules and sprinkle the powder into the cooled coconut milk. Whisk gently to combine. If using a vegan yogurt starter culture, follow the package instructions for amount and mixing.
6. Fermentation: Pour the mixture into a clean glass or ceramic jar. Cover with a breathable kitchen towel or cheesecloth and secure with a rubber band. Store the jar in a warm, draft-free spot for 24-48 hours. The longer it ferments, the tangier the yogurt will become.
7. Check and refrigerate: After fermentation, check the yogurt’s consistency and flavor. Stir gently and transfer the jar to the refrigerator to chill for at least 6 hours. The yogurt will thicken further as it cools.
8. Optional straining: For a thicker Greek-style coconut yogurt, strain it through a fine mesh strainer or cheesecloth for 2-4 hours in the fridge.
9. Serve and enjoy: Your homemade coconut milk yogurt is ready! Store in the refrigerator and consume within 7-10 days.

Tips & Variations

“Using full-fat canned coconut milk is key to achieving a rich, creamy texture that mimics traditional yogurt.”

• Culture options: Besides probiotic capsules, you can use a tablespoon of store-bought unsweetened vegan yogurt with live cultures as a starter.
• Thickening alternatives: If you prefer not to use agar agar, try adding 1-2 teaspoons of tapioca starch or arrowroot powder during heating.
• Flavor boosters: Add a cinnamon stick or a few vanilla bean seeds during heating for extra aroma. Stir in fresh fruit purees or a drizzle of honey (if not strictly vegan) before serving.
• Fermentation environment: If your kitchen is cold, wrap the jar in a towel and place it inside an oven with just the light on or use a yogurt maker for consistent warmth.
• Probiotic potency: Remember, the strength and type of probiotic cultures can affect fermentation time and taste. Experiment to find your favorite brand.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

This coconut milk yogurt is incredibly versatile. Here are some delicious ways to enjoy it:

• Top with fresh berries, granola, and a drizzle of agave or maple syrup for a wholesome breakfast.
• Use it as a creamy base for smoothies or smoothie bowls.
• Mix in fresh herbs and lemon juice for a tangy vegan tzatziki dip.
• Swirl into soups or curries to add richness and a probiotic boost.
• Pair with gluten-free crackers or try it with recipes like Pecan Crackers Recipe for a delightful snack.

Conclusion

Making your own coconut milk yogurt at home is a simple, satisfying process that brings the benefits of probiotics into a delicious, plant-based treat. With just a few ingredients and some patience during fermentation, you can create a creamy, tangy yogurt that suits your dietary needs and flavor preferences.

This recipe’s versatility allows you to experiment with different cultures, sweeteners, and flavorings, making it a kitchen staple for health-conscious cooks and vegans alike.

If you’re looking for more wholesome homemade recipes, be sure to check out our Thelma Sanders Squash Recipe for a comforting vegetable dish or try the hearty Bariatric Meatloaf Recipe for a protein-packed meal.

For a tangy, spicy kick, don’t miss the Pickled Cherry Pepper Recipe to add zest to your dishes.

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