Homemade probiotic coconut yogurt
Making your own probiotic coconut yogurt is a very simple process that only requires two ingredients: coconut milk and probiotics. This easy-to-make yogurt is not only a dairy-free alternative but also packed with gut-friendly bacteria that can do wonders for your digestive health. Whether you’re vegan, lactose intolerant, or just looking for a healthier, homemade snack, this coconut yogurt is a great addition to your kitchen.
Probiotics, the live beneficial bacteria found in the yogurt, are key to maintaining a healthy gut microbiome. Consuming probiotics regularly can help balance the gut flora, promoting digestion, strengthening the immune system, and even enhancing mental health. Research shows that a healthy gut plays a vital role in everything from nutrient absorption to fighting inflammation, so adding probiotic-rich foods to your diet can support overall well-being. Homemade coconut yogurt provides a natural, plant-based source of probiotics without any of the added sugars or preservatives typically found in store-bought versions. It is also much more cost effective as some of the coconut yogurt found in stores today ranges from about $15 - $20 per jar, for less than this recipe makes!
Not only does coconut milk provide a creamy base for this yogurt, but it also offers its own health benefits. Rich in medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs), coconut milk can support metabolism and provide sustained energy. When combined with probiotics, you get a delicious and nourishing food that contributes to better gut health and a stronger immune system. Best of all, this recipe is incredibly simple to make, requiring minimal effort for a truly beneficial homemade treat.
To start, grab a can of full fat coconut milk or coconut cream. The fat content of the coconut milk is super important because it creates a thick yogurt-like texture. This will help you get in your healthy fats for the day!
Add the solids from the coconut milk into a bowl or jar. Mix until smooth, making sure all lumps are removed.
Add two probiotic capsules to the coconut milk and stir with a wooden, ceramic, or plastic spoon. Metal could respond badly with the probiotics. Stir this until completely combined.
Cover with a cheese cloth and place this in a warm spot to ferment. In an oven with the light on works perfect but if not, it needs to be somewhere about 97 - 107 degrees to properly ferment.
The fermentation process will take approximately 12 - 48 hours. You can taste it periodically through the fermentation process and once it has reached your desired tangy-ness you can remove it from the oven. I believe the sweet spot is about 24 hours, but do whatever works for you!
Store this in the refrigerator, add honey to sweeten or you favorite fruits and granola and it is ready to enjoy!
Recipe:
Ingredients:
- Solids from one can of full fat coconut milk or cream
- Two probiotic capsules
Instructions:
- Remove solids from the can of coconut milk and add to a bowl or jar
- Stir until completely smooth
- Add the contents of two probiotic capsules into the coconut milk
- Use a wooden, ceramic or plastic spoon to stir. Metal could affect the probiotics
- Cover with a cheese cloth and place in a warm spot to ferment for about 12-48 hours. A warm oven with the light on works perfect
- Taste the yogurt occasionally until it has reached your desired level of fermentation and remove from the oven
- Store this in the refrigerator, and when ready to serve add your favorite toppings and enjoy!