I love yogurt, but it was becoming too big a part of my grocery bill. Most of the yogurt brands at the supermarket either have too much sugar, or cost an outrageous $2 for a little cup, or both.
I decided I'd look into making my own yogurt at home. Naturally there are websites that'll try to get you to overspend here, too: $100 for a high-tech yogurt maker, or $20 for special starter cultures, or whatever. But all you really need is a big pot, a candy thermometer, and a small starter cup of whatever kind of yogurt you like best. I followed this recipe and it worked like magic:
http://www.thekitchn.com/how-to-make-yogurt-at-home-cooking-lessons-from-the-kitchn-125070It's a can't-miss recipe. All it takes is a little stirring and a few hours of time for the yogurt to sit quietly and ferment. I can add as much or as little sugar as I like, boost the protein content with a scoop of whey powder, and get fancy with whatever flavorings I want. I've experimented with peach, honey, dark chocolate, maple syrup, cinnamon, and more.
The best part is that I can get a gallon of whole milk, even the organic kind, for $7. That will make 16 generous servings of yogurt. Assuming I eat one a day, I'll be saving over $500 a year. Damn, that's a lot of money saved, and for something that's better-tasting and healthier than the store brands!