Discover the Icelandic tradition with Skyr, a thick, creamy dairy product that's rich in protein and low in fat. Made from skimmed milk, Skyr boasts a smooth texture and a slightly tangy flavor, making it a versatile ingredient for both sweet and savory dishes. Enjoy it on its own, or use it to add a healthy twist to your favorite recipes.

To make Icelandic Skyr at home, you'll need:

Ingredients:

  - 1 gallon (4 liters) skimmed milk

  - 1/2 cup live, active culture yogurt (as a starter)

  - Cheesecloth or a clean kitchen towel

  - A large pot

  - A thermometer

  - A strainer

Here's how to make it:

1- Heat the milk in a large pot over medium heat, stirring frequently to prevent scorching, until it reaches 185°F (85°C).

2- Remove the pot from the heat and let it cool to 110°F (43°C).

3- In a small bowl, mix the live, active culture yogurt with a small amount of the cooled milk.

4- Pour the yogurt mixture back into the pot of milk and stir well to combine.

5- Cover the pot with a clean kitchen towel and let it sit at room temperature for 4-6 hours, or until the mixture thickens and becomes slightly tangy.

6- Line a strainer with cheesecloth or a clean kitchen towel and place it over a large bowl.

7- Pour the thickened milk mixture into the strainer and let it drain for 6-12 hours in the refrigerator, until it reaches the desired thickness.

8- Transfer the thickened Skyr to a container and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.

Enjoy your homemade Icelandic Skyr as a delicious and nutritious snack or use it in your favorite recipes!

Nutritional Values:

Here are the approximate nutritional values for the ingredients used in the Icelandic Skyr recipe:

1 Gallon (4 Liters) Skimmed Milk:

 - Calories: About 1,200 kcal

 - Fat: 0g

 - Carbohydrates: 180g

 - Protein: 80g 

Benefits: Provides high-quality protein, calcium, and vitamins B12 and D without the fat found in whole milk. Supports bone health, muscle function, and overall nutrition.

1/2 Cup Live, Active Culture Yogurt (As a Starter):

 - Calories: About 30-50 kcal

 - Fat: 1-2g

 - Carbohydrates: 3-4g

 - Protein: 2-3g 

Benefits: Contains probiotics that aid digestion and improve gut health. Provides additional protein and can enhance the nutritional profile of the milk.

Cheesecloth or a Clean Kitchen Towel:

 - Calories: 0 kcal

 - Fat: 0g

 - Carbohydrates: 0g

 - Protein: 0g 

Benefits: Used for straining and draining, essential for cheese making and other culinary processes. Does not contribute nutritional value but is crucial for proper preparation.

A Large Pot:

 - Calories: 0 kcal

 - Fat: 0g

 - Carbohydrates: 0g

 - Protein: 0g 

Benefits: Essential for heating the milk and mixing ingredients. Does not contribute nutritional value but is necessary for the cooking process.

A Thermometer:

 - Calories: 0 kcal

 - Fat: 0g

 - Carbohydrates: 0g

 - Protein: 0g 

Benefits: Ensures the milk reaches the correct temperature for proper curd formation. Essential for accurate cooking and food safety.

A Strainer:

 - Calories: 0 kcal

 - Fat: 0g

 - Carbohydrates: 0g

 - Protein: 0g 

 Benefits: Used for separating curds from whey in cheese making. Does not contribute nutritional value but is vital for the process.

Please note that these values are approximate and can vary based on the specific brands and types of ingredients used.