How to Make Set Yoghurt (Traditional & Healthy Version)
Set Yoghurt, known locally as "yogurt pekat," is a cherished dish in Malaysia's multicultural culinary landscape. Popular among the Malaysian Indian community, this dish is loved for its creamy texture and tangy taste. Traditionally enjoyed during lunch, Set Yoghurt plays a significant role not only as a palate cleanser but also as a cooling accompaniment to spicy meals. Local variations often incorporate ingredients like pandan leaves for aroma and a touch of honey for natural sweetness, making it both nutritious and uniquely Malaysian. Set Yoghurt is a great choice for those seeking a healthy, vegetarian option for lunch. It's simple to prepare, requiring just a handful of quality ingredients. The dish highlights the harmonious blend of imported dairy traditions with local flavors, reflecting Malaysia's rich tapestry of cultures. Its silky, custard-like texture and mild sourness offer a refreshing contrast to robustly spiced Malaysian curries and lentil dishes. As a naturally probiotic food, Set Yoghurt supports digestive health, making it an excellent addition to a balanced Malaysian diet.
Ingredients
- 2 cups Fresh full-cream milk (Susu segar)
- 2 tablespoons Plain live yoghurt (yogurt asli, as starter culture)
- 1 leaf Pandan leaf (daun pandan, tied into a knot)
- 1 teaspoon Honey (madu, for natural sweetness)
- a pinch Rock salt (garam bukit)
- 1 teaspoon Brown sugar (gula perang, or omit for lower calories)
- 1 stalk Lemongrass (serai, lightly bruised and optional for fragrance)
- 2 tablespoons Filtered water (if needed for adjusting consistency)
Step-by-step instructions
Step 1 · Pour fresh full-cream milk into a saucepan
Pour fresh full-cream milk into a saucepan. Add the pandan leaf and lemongrass stalk for a light, local aroma. Heat gently over medium flame until just before boiling, stirring occasionally.
Step 2 · Remove the pandan leaf and lemongrass
Remove the pandan leaf and lemongrass. Allow the milk to cool until it is warm but not hot (about 40°C or comfortably warm to touch).
Step 3 · In a small bowl
In a small bowl, mix the plain live yoghurt with 2 tablespoons of the cooled milk to make a smooth starter.
Step 4 · Add the starter mixture back into the warm milk
Add the starter mixture back into the warm milk. Stir gently to combine. If using, add a pinch of rock salt and honey or brown sugar for flavor.
Step 5 · Pour the mixture into clean serving bowls
Pour the mixture into clean serving bowls. Cover with a lid or food wrap and place in a warm, draft-free spot to ferment for 6-8 hours or overnight.
Step 6 · Once set
Once set, refrigerate the yoghurt for at least 1 hour for a thicker texture. Serve chilled, optionally garnished with a drizzle of honey or fresh fruits.
Why this recipe is healthy
This Malaysian Set Yoghurt recipe is a healthy option due to its natural ingredients and minimal processing. It's free of artificial additives, low in sugar when sweeteners are optional, and rich in probiotics that support immune function. The use of milk as the base ensures a good protein and calcium content, making it suitable for weight-watchers, vegetarians, and those looking for wholesome lunch options.
A note on tradition
Set Yoghurt is a staple in Malaysian Indian households, especially in the west coast states like Selangor and Penang. It's commonly enjoyed as part of a thali meal, balancing out the heat of curries and spices. During festive times like Deepavali, homemade yoghurt is often prepared as a cooling side. With local twists like infusing with pandan and using Malaysian honey, this dish is a celebration of Malaysia’s vibrant, multicultural food heritage.