I have recently received a couple of requests for directions as to how to operate the Moulinex #379 yogurt maker. While mine was acquired at a yard sale, and did not come with a manual, I have managed to figure out how to use it and it’s really rather simple. I have made yogurt many times, and even my first batch using this general process was a success! Here’s my favorite yogurt recipe, with a description of how to use the Moulinex #379.
Homemade Yogurt
2 c. whole milk
2 c. skim milk
1/2 c. nonfat dry milk
1 c. plain yogurt (or one single serving container)
1. Start by washing all of the glass jars and lids in hot soapy water, and set aside to dry. Also wash a kitchen thermometer (a meat thermometer works just fine).
2. Fill the round yogurt-maker’s base with warm tap water, leaving about 1 inch of air space at the top. Cover and plug in to preheat.
3. Whisk together the whole milk, skim milk, and dry milk in a sauce pan and heat over medium-low heat just until the milk reaches 170 degrees Fahrenheit. Remove from heat, and place the milk in the refrigerator until the temperature drops to about 110 degrees Fahrenheit, give or take a degree or two.
4. Using a whisk, thoroughly stir in the plain yogurt, then pour the yogurt mixture into the glass jars and cover. Place the glass jars in the preheated yogurt-maker, and allow them to process for about 6 hours. Remove the jars from the yogurt-maker, and place in the refrigerator immediately. The yogurt is ready to eat as soon as it is cold!
OTHER HINTS:
1. USE A THERMOMETER! You might luck out without precise measurements, but reaching the right temperatures will increase the likelihood of a successful batch of yogurt.
2. Plan ahead when you want to make yogurt! While the process is simple, it does require attention at specific times. The yogurt can process in the yogurt-maker for no longer than 8 hours, so I find it convenient to prepare the mixture first thing in the morning on a weekend so that I can make the transfer later in the day. If I make a batch during the work week, I start it late at night knowing that I can transfer the finished yogurt to the refrigerator first thing in the morning when I wake up.
