How to Make Sweetened Yoghurt (Traditional & Healthy Version)
Sweetened Yoghurt, known locally as 'Yogurt Manis', is a beloved dessert across Malaysia, especially among the Indian-Malaysian community. This creamy, lightly sweet treat highlights the multicultural nature of Malaysian cuisine. Often enjoyed during festive occasions or as a cooling dessert after spicy meals, this dish blends the richness of fresh homemade yoghurt with the fragrant sweetness of local ingredients such as pandan leaves and gula Melaka (palm sugar). The Malaysian version of Sweetened Yoghurt stands out for its use of regional flavors. Pandan leaves lend a delightful aroma, while a drizzle of gula Melaka adds depth and complexity beyond regular refined sugar. This dish is a great choice for those seeking healthier dessert options, as it features probiotic-rich yoghurt, minimal added sugar, and optional fresh fruit toppings. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or as a guilt-free treat, Sweetened Yoghurt is versatile and can be enjoyed year-round, fitting seamlessly into the Malaysian palate and lifestyle.
Ingredients
- 2 cups Fresh plain yoghurt (yogurt asli)
- 2 tablespoons Gula Melaka (palm sugar) (finely chopped)
- 1 leaf Pandan leaf (tied into a knot)
- 1/4 cup Low-fat milk (susu rendah lemak)
- 1/2 cup Fresh mango, diced (mangga)
- 1 teaspoon Chia seeds (biji chia)
- 1 teaspoon Natural honey (madu asli)
- 1 tablespoon Toasted coconut flakes (serunding kelapa)
- 1/8 teaspoon Pinch of salt (garam halus)
Step-by-step instructions
Step 1 · Prepare the palm sugar syrup by combining gula Melaka
Prepare the palm sugar syrup by combining gula Melaka, pandan leaf, and 2 tablespoons water in a small saucepan. Heat gently until the sugar melts and forms a thick syrup. Remove the pandan leaf and let cool.
Step 2 · Whisk the plain yoghurt in a bowl until smooth and creamy
Whisk the plain yoghurt in a bowl until smooth and creamy. Add a pinch of salt to enhance the flavors.
Step 3 · If you prefer a lighter texture
If you prefer a lighter texture, gently fold in low-fat milk to the yoghurt.
Step 4 · Pour the palm sugar syrup over the yoghurt and gently swirl to crea...
Pour the palm sugar syrup over the yoghurt and gently swirl to create a marbled effect.
Step 5 · Top with diced mango
Top with diced mango, chia seeds, and toasted coconut flakes for added nutrition and texture.
Step 6 · Drizzle honey over the top if extra sweetness is desired
Drizzle honey over the top if extra sweetness is desired. Chill in the refrigerator for 15 minutes before serving.
Why this recipe is healthy
Sweetened Yoghurt is a healthy dessert as it uses natural sweeteners in moderation and incorporates nutrient-dense ingredients like fresh fruit and chia seeds. The yoghurt base offers high protein and beneficial live cultures, while optional toppings boost fiber and essential vitamins. Its low-fat content and lack of heavy cream make it a lighter choice compared to traditional sweets, ideal for those monitoring calories.
A note on tradition
Sweetened Yoghurt is popular among Malaysian Indian communities, especially during festive gatherings and family meals. In regions like Penang and Selangor, it’s often served as a cooling dessert to balance the bold, spicy dishes of Malaysian-Indian cuisine. Its versatility and local flavors have made it a staple in multicultural Malaysian homes, reflecting the nation’s love for fusion and adaptation of traditional recipes.