9 Innovative Ways to Add Yogurt to Your Meals

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Many households have yogurt as a staple in their refrigerator. It serves as a quick breakfast option when paired with fruits and granola and can also be enjoyed straight from the tub. Additionally, yogurt is a versatile ingredient that can enhance various dishes, such as creamy dips, spreads, and smoothies. Its ability to act as a marinade and contribute to the tenderness of baked goods makes yogurt a must-have kitchen item. Here are nine inventive methods for incorporating yogurt into your everyday cooking to elevate your meals.

1. Enhance Grilled Dishes

When it comes to grilling, from vegetables to meats, adding a touch of yogurt can introduce much-needed acidity and a creamy texture that complements the smoky flavors. A simple mix of yogurt with lemon juice and fresh herbs creates a delectable sauce that can elevate any grilled offering.

2. Quick Dips and Sauces

Mixing Greek yogurt or labneh with bold flavors like asafoetida, lemon juice, and dill makes for a versatile salad dressing and a delicious accompaniment for roasted veggies. Yogurt can also be combined with curry powder for a delightful contrast over lentil soup or mixed with cumin to enhance eggplant and chickpea dishes. For effortless weeknight meals, consider topping poached salmon with a dill-yogurt sauce or a refreshing blend of yogurt, herbs, and cucumbers.

If you’re looking for a bulk recipe, consider a yogurt sauce infused with mint and cumin or a caraway-yogurt mix that adds brightness to a platter of raw or roasted vegetables. Cucumber raita, typically served with Indian cuisine, can also pair beautifully with roasted cauliflower or fried potatoes.

3. Flavorful Marinades

Yogurt forms the basis of an effective marinade when combined with salt and your choice of spices. It enhances the flavor and moisture of meats, particularly chicken, making it a perfect choice for easy kebabs or for creating a flavorful tikka masala that rivals your favorite local restaurant.

4. Stir into Soups and Grains

Yogurt integrates seamlessly into both hot and cold pureed soups. To avoid curdling, add it gently at the end of cooking. One excellent example is asparagus and ramp soup, which can serve as a basis for numerous yogurt-enhanced soups, such as a creamy carrot soup.

5. Quick Salad Dressings

Using yogurt as a base allows for quick and flavorful salad dressings. A standout is a tangy mixture for fresh and pickled carrot salad that brightens up any meal. For an impressive, yet straightforward dish, layer chickpeas, endive, cucumber, and onion and finish with feta cheese and sunflower seeds, all highlighted by a yogurt dressing.

6. Baking with Yogurt

Yogurt can transform your baking game, combining the ease of oil-based cakes and the rich flavors associated with creamed butter. It adds a delightful tang, perfect for fragrant Persian cakes or coffee cakes, and helps thicken the batter of bran muffins.

7. Freezing Options

If traditional frozen yogurts don’t appeal, consider making your own at home. Simple recipes allow you to churn full-fat yogurt with sugar, or create rich fruit popsicles for a refreshing treat.

8. Whip It Up

Cold treats don’t have to be the only option when it comes to yogurt. Whipped Greek yogurt combines the lightness of whipped cream with the rich texture of yogurt, creating a delightful dessert. Incorporate ingredients like golden syrup, rosewater, and salt for a unique twist, and enjoy it with seasonal fruits or homemade jams.

9. Adding to Beverages

Yogurt’s role extends to beverages, too. It adds protein and a creamy texture to drinks such as robust coffee smoothies or refreshing salted mint lassis. Incorporating yogurt into your drinks can significantly enhance their nutritional profile.

June 2015

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www.seriouseats.com