NW Ferments

How are mesophilic and thermophilic yogurts different from each other?

The primary difference between mesophilic and thermophilic yogurts is the  temperature at which they are cultured (fermented).

Mesophilic Yogurt:

Filmjolk, Matsoni, Piima and Viili varieties 

  • Culturing Temperature: Mesophilic yogurts culture at room temperature, typically between 70-80°F (21-27°C). 
  • Ease of Preparation: They are easier to make at home because they don’t require extra heating. 
  • Texture: Mesophilic yogurts tend to be thinner, ranging from spoonable to drinkable, with Viili being a notable exception that has a very thick and ropy texture. The yogurt can also be strained to get a thicker result. 
  • Flavor: These cultures usually have a milder, more subtly tart flavor compared to thermophilic yogurts. 
  • Probiotics: Mesophilic yogurts often have a greater diversity of probiotic strains, as they can thrive from the natural bacteria present in the milk due to the room temperature fermentation. 
  • Yeast Content: They may contain small amounts of yeast due to room temperature fermentation, which can pick up airborne yeast.  `

Thermophilic Yogurt:

  • Greek and Bulgarian varieties 

    • Culturing Temperature: These cultures thrive in higher temperatures, around 90-110°F (32-43°C). 
    • Preparation: Making thermophilic yogurt at home usually requires a yogurt maker or a controlled heat source to maintain the necessary temperature. 
    • Texture: Thermophilic yogurts are typically thick and more spoonable, with Greek yogurt being a well-known example. 
    • Flavor: These cultures generally have a stronger tart or sour flavor, which can be adjusted by varying the fermentation time. 
    • Probiotics: These yogurts usually contain 4-6 probiotic strains selected for desirable traits like taste and potential health benefits.
    • Yeast Content: Yeast is unlikely to thrive in the high temperatures used for fermenting thermophilic yogurts. 

Sourdough Bagel Recipe

Sourdough Bagel Recipe Ingredients 1¼ cups warm water (254 grams) 1½ tablespoons honey (40 grams) ⅔ cup sourdough starter, active...

Sourdough Pizza Crust

Sourdough Pizza Crust Ingredients ¼-⅓ cup sourdough starter, active and bubbly (50 grams, fed at 100% hydration) ¾ cup water (175 grams)...

Kombucha Salad Dressing

Kombucha Salad Dressing Not just a salad dressing- great for marinades and added to dips too!   Ingredients: 1 cup...

Sourdough Sandwich Bread Loaf

Sourdough Sandwich Bread Loaf Ingredients 4⅓ cups all-purpose flour, spooned and leveled (510 grams) 4 tablespoons salted butter, softened (56...

Kombucha Marinade

Kombucha Marinade Try it with meats, veggies, tempeh, tofu & more. A great way to use extra strong Kombucha! Ingredients...

Apple Cinnamon Water Kefir

Apple Cinnamon Water Kefir Ingredients 4 cups finished water kefir (grains removed) 1 cup unfiltered apple cider (or to taste)...