The new yogurt

Yogurt results from milk that has fermented and coagulated with good bacteria. The milk is kept at 110 degrees Fahrenheit for several hours. The resulting yogurt is creamy and somewhat tart in taste.

History says that yogurt started with the nomadic Balkans thousands of years ago, initially by accident then eventually to preserve milk. Today, yogurt is produced commercially in carefully selected environments with the addition of the requisite bacteria.

There are three types of yogurt – plain, flavored and frozen. It has some healthy attributes – a source of Vitamin B, protein and calcium. It is more digestible than milk. We know someone who takes yogurt regularly to settle his stomach.

Yogurt has been in the country for a long time. It has gained a following of health conscious individuals. Today a new yogurt outlet, the US-based Pinkberry, has opened on the second floor of SM Aura, offering frozen yogurt, which is like soft-serve ice cream and has become a rather strong competition to ice cream.

Pinkberry is a company formed in 2005 by a partnership between two Chinese gentlemen in West Hollywood, Los Angeles. They originally intended to open a formal English teahouse, which would also serve alcohol, but they were not allowed to do so.

The resulting turn of events, and the decision to revolutionize the yogurt industry, led to big success. They have put up 100 branches in the US and have expanded to the Middle East and now the Philippines.  

The offerings include not only frozen yogurt but smoothies, fruit parfaits, and fresh fruit bowls. The fruits are cut fresh on site – strawberry, bananas or mango. The various toppings include fruits, almonds, and chestnuts, among others. Have a yogurt. It is refreshing and healthy.

The “ber” months are soon upon us. We have a friend who is now counting the days to Halloween, All Saints’ Day, Thanksgiving and, yes, Christmas! She must have such happy anticipation. But just as well, for time flies so fast. Planning ahead is always beneficial, it takes away stress.

Homemakers, if budget and time permit, can make a list and perhaps buy an item or two in advance every shopping trip.

Should there be enough storage space, here are some of the things you can stock up on: olive oil, bottles of sun-dried tomatoes, dried herbs and spices, canned chorizos, canned tomato sauce, glazed fruits (make your fruit cakes much ahead of December).

Serving roast lamb or turkey? Remember, it takes time to thaw, which must be done inside the refrigerator. If ordering food from a caterer, book early to avoid the rush.

If you intend to sell homemade sauces or other goodies, prepare early, join a bazaar or weekend market.

There you are. Happy Sunday to all.

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