How to Make Probiotic Yoghurt (Traditional & Healthy Version)
Probiotic Yoghurt, or yogurt probiotik, is a wholesome dish celebrated in Malaysia for its creamy texture and gut-friendly benefits. Rooted in the multicultural culinary traditions of Malaysia, this dish is often enjoyed as a refreshing lunch or light meal, especially in the humid tropical climate. Malaysian households commonly infuse their homemade yoghurt with local ingredients such as pandan leaves for aroma and lemongrass for a subtle citrusy note, making it uniquely Malaysian. The taste is mild, tangy, and slightly sweet when sweetened with madu (honey) or fresh buah-buahan tempatan like mango or papaya. Probiotic Yoghurt is well-loved for its nutritional value and versatility, suitable for vegetarians and those seeking a healthier lifestyle. Its preparation is simple, requiring only a few steps, yet it delivers complex flavors that represent Malaysia's fusion of Malay, Indian, and Chinese culinary influences. This makes it a nourishing choice for anyone seeking a deeply rooted, yet contemporary, Malaysian dish.
Ingredients
- 2 cups Fresh full cream milk (susu segar)
- 2 tablespoons Plain yoghurt with live cultures (starter culture, yogurt probiotik)
- 1 leaf Pandan leaf (tied into a knot)
- 1 stalk Lemongrass stalk (serai, bruised)
- 1 tablespoon Honey (madu, for natural sweetness)
- 1 cup Fresh cut fruits (mango, papaya, or banana (buah-buahan tempatan))
- 1 teaspoon Chia seeds (for added fiber)
- 1/8 teaspoon Pinch of salt (to balance flavor)
Step-by-step instructions
Step 1 · Pour fresh susu segar into a saucepan
Pour fresh susu segar into a saucepan. Add pandan leaf and bruised serai if using. Heat gently over low flame, stirring occasionally, until just before boiling (small bubbles appear at the edge). Do not let it boil.
Step 2 · Remove from heat and let the milk cool to lukewarm (about 40°C or w...
Remove from heat and let the milk cool to lukewarm (about 40°C or when you can comfortably touch it). Remove pandan leaf and lemongrass.
Step 3 · Add plain probiotic yoghurt to a clean bowl
Add plain probiotic yoghurt to a clean bowl. Pour a few tablespoons of cooled milk into the yoghurt, whisk until smooth.
Step 4 · Pour the yoghurt mixture back into the remaining milk
Pour the yoghurt mixture back into the remaining milk. Stir gently to combine.
Step 5 · Cover the bowl with a clean cloth or lid
Cover the bowl with a clean cloth or lid. Leave to ferment in a warm place (kawasan hangat) for 6–8 hours, or overnight, until set to your preferred thickness.
Step 6 · Once set
Once set, chill the yoghurt in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours. Before serving, stir in madu, fresh fruits, chia seeds, and a pinch of salt as desired.
Why this recipe is healthy
This Malaysian Probiotic Yoghurt is naturally low in sugar, high in protein, and rich in beneficial probiotics for gut health. The inclusion of local fruits and seeds adds vitamins, minerals, and fiber, making it a balanced meal or snack. Its simple preparation avoids artificial additives, and it is suitable for those looking to manage weight or improve overall wellness.
A note on tradition
In Malaysia, yoghurt is experiencing a rise in popularity thanks to its health benefits and adaptability to local tastes. While not traditional, probiotic yoghurt is now a staple in urban households, often served during lunch or as a nutritious snack. Infused with aromatic pandan and serai, it reflects Malaysia’s multicultural palate and love for fresh, wholesome ingredients. It’s especially favored during Ramadan for suhoor to provide lasting energy.