Sheep Yogurt

What Is Sheep's Milk Yogurt?

Sheep's milk yogurt is a dairy product made by fermenting sheep's milk with yogurt culture. Since sheep's milk is rich in fat and dry matter, this yogurt tends to be thick, creamy, and rich-tasting.

A pronounced layer of cream can form on top. Because of its thick texture, it is preferred for strained yogurt (torba/bag yogurt) and some regional yogurts; it is enjoyed at breakfast and in meze.

Nutritional Values of Sheep's Milk Yogurt

Sheep's milk yogurt is a fairly calorie-dense dairy product containing high protein and fat as well as calcium; it provides around 95 kcal per 100 g (varies by fat ratio). Its thick texture comes from its high fat content; values are approximate.

How Should Sheep's Milk Yogurt Be Consumed?

Since sheep's milk yogurt is rich in fat and calories, it should be consumed in moderation as part of a balanced diet; its rich, filling texture means even a small amount is satisfying. It can be strained to make a denser product.

This information is general; sheep's milk yogurt is a food, not a substitute for medical treatment.

How Is Sheep's Milk Yogurt Chosen?

Good sheep's milk yogurt is fresh, white-cream colored, has a natural layer of cream on top, and smells pleasant. Products that are overly sour, have separated excess liquid, or are past their freshness date should be avoided.

• Should be fresh, thick, and creamy
• Should not smell overly sour
• Should have a suitable freshness date

How Is Sheep's Milk Yogurt Stored?

Sheep's milk yogurt is stored in the fridge in a sealed container; the lid should stay closed so it doesn't absorb odors. Its sourness increases over time; it can be turned into a longer-lasting product by straining.

Using Sheep's Milk Yogurt in the Kitchen

Sheep's milk yogurt is used most at breakfast, as strained yogurt (torba/bag), in meze (haydari, cacık), in soups and vegetable dishes, and also in yogurt-based desserts and sauces. Its thick texture adds a rich body to dishes; it is added at the end of cooking so it doesn't split when hot.

Why Is Sheep's Milk Yogurt Thicker?

Sheep's milk is richer in fat and dry matter than cow's milk; this naturally makes its yogurt thicker, creamier, and richer-tasting.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is sheep's milk yogurt suitable for strained yogurt?

Yes; thanks to its high dry-matter content, straining it produces a thick, creamy strained yogurt (torba yogurt), which is why it's often preferred.

Is sheep's milk yogurt more calorie-dense than cow yogurt?

Generally yes; since its fat ratio is higher, the same amount provides more calories. Moderate consumption is therefore recommended.

What is the layer of cream on top of sheep's milk yogurt?

It is the layer of fat that gathers on the surface of the yogurt; it forms due to the fat richness of sheep's milk and is enjoyed by many.