I was watching one of my favorite Food Network shows, The Barefoot Contessa with Ina Garten, as she turned a container of plain yogurt into the most tempting dish of yogurt I've ever seen.
And what a great idea! Why pay for a small container of yogurt that has too much sugar or artificial flavor for your taste when you can make it exactly how you prefer?
First, Ina took a large container of plain yogurt and drained it. What you need to do is assemble a large bowl, a fine-mesh strainer and some paper towels. Line the strainer with paper towels and over the bowl, dump in the yogurt. Cover the entire thing with plastic wrap and place in the refrigerator overnight.
You will be amazed at how much liquid comes out of the yogurt.
Discard the liquid, rinse out the bowl, and remove the now firmer yogurt into the bowl.
Now's the fun part - adding back some liquid and adding flavors of your choice.
Here's what Ina suggested to add:
a few grates of lemon, lime or orange zest
honey, to taste
small amounts of flavorful juice or nectar such as mango or guava
any spices you desire such as cinnamon, nutmeg or ginger, for example
any type of extract such as vanilla, orange or almond (start super small with these)
Stir well and add more juice until you reach your desired consistency.
Top the yogurt with fresh fruit, chopped nuts, raisins, granola, shredded coconut, sunflower seeds or whatever you wish.
Remember - this is all about you!
