Holidays & Special Occasions
Kurt (Dried Salted Yogurt Balls)
Ingredients
- 2 litres (8 cups) plain full-fat yogurt or ayran
- 1 tbsp (15 g) salt
- Cheesecloth, for straining
Method
- Line a colander with cheesecloth set over a bowl, and pour in the yogurt.
- Let it drain at room temperature for 12-24 hours until thick, tangy curds remain, discarding the whey.
- Transfer the drained curd to a bowl and mix in the salt thoroughly.
- Shape the mixture into small balls, roughly the size of a walnut, using your hands.
- Arrange the balls on a baking tray or drying rack, spaced apart.
- Leave to air-dry in a warm, well-ventilated spot for 3-5 days, turning occasionally, until fully hardened and dry throughout.
- Store once completely dry and firm.
Introduction: Kurt are small, hard balls of dried, salted yogurt, traditionally made in the warmer months and stored for the rest of the year as a portable, long-lasting snack.
Cultural Background: Kurt are small, hard balls of dried, salted yogurt, traditionally made in the warmer months and stored for the rest of the year as a portable, long-lasting snack. Offered at celebrations and given as gifts to guests, kurt reflects the nomadic ingenuity of preserving dairy without refrigeration across generations.
Tips: Ensure the curds are drained thoroughly before shaping, or the balls will not dry evenly. A sunny, breezy spot speeds up the drying process considerably.
Variations: Some regions add a touch of dried herbs or chilli flakes to the curd before shaping. A softer, partially dried version is sometimes eaten fresh rather than fully hardened.
Storage: Store fully dried kurt in an airtight container at room temperature for several months.
Reheating: Traditionally eaten as is, without reheating; can be soaked briefly in water to soften if desired.
FAQs:
Q: How long does kurt last once fully dried?
A: Properly dried and stored kurt can last for several months at room temperature without refrigeration.
Q: Is kurt eaten on its own or with anything?
A: It is typically eaten on its own as a salty snack, though it can also be dissolved into hot water or broth for a quick savoury drink.
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