Utilizing Yogurt

Lately, I've been interested in using yogurt in more ways than simply paired with granola. Almost everyone has yogurt in their fridge and it's fun to use conventional items in a new and exciting way. Here are two completely different recipes that use yogurt as an ingredient: Yogurt Marinated Grilled Chicken and Blackberry Chocolate Chip Frozen Yogurt.

Blackberry Chocolate Chip Frozen Yogurt
Makes 1 serving
1 container of plain or honey flavored yogurt (I prefer goat yogurt for this recipe)
2 tablespoons mini dark chocolate chips
1 teaspoon honey
1/2 cup frozen blackberries

 Line a flour sifter or fine strainer with a paper towel. Put the strainer with the paper towel over a small bowl so that it can catch the liquid. Pour the yogurt into the lined strainer and let it sit in the refrigerator for 3 hours.

 This releases the excess water from the yogurt and is an essential step.
In a food processor, combine the honey and blackberries and blend until finely ground, about 30 seconds. Add the strained honey and blend for another 15 seconds. Pour the mixture into a small container and mix in the chocolate chips. Freeze for 30 minutes before serving. Do not freeze for longer than one hour.

I served this frozen yogurt to my friends as a dessert and they were in awe with how delicious and ice cream-like it turned out. This definitely is a recipe to be made for guests!

Yogurt Marinated Grilled Chicken
2 boneless, skinless chicken breast, pounded to 1/2 inch thickness

Blend the following in a food processor:
2 cups plain, whole milk yogurt
1 cup cilantro
1/2 large onion
1/3 cup olive oil
6 garlic cloves
1 tablespoon lime juice
1 tablespoon garam masala
2 teaspoons salt
1 teaspoon black pepper
1 2 inch piece fresh ginger, peeled and chopped

Put the chicken in a ziplock bag and pour the mixture into the bag with the chicken. Let this marinate in the fridge for 3 hours. After three hours, preheat a grill. Cook the chicken for five minutes on each side.
Serve with naan or rice.