What is the difference between súrmjólk and regular yogurt?
Súrmjólk is an Icelandic soured milk that is much thinner and more liquid than yogurt, which is thicker and more coagulated. It tastes quite acidic and is drunk or eaten with cereal, bread or cheese. It is also different from skyr, which is strained. Do not expect it to be sweeter or more nutritious than yogurt; check the label.
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What is the difference between súrmjólk and yogurt?
Súrmjólk (literally sour milk) is an Icelandic fermented milk. A source on Icelandic dairy describes it as yogurt made the Icelandic way, but with a much thinner, more liquid consistency than yogurt, which is thicker and more coagulated.
Side by side
| Feature | Súrmjólk | Regular yogurt |
|---|---|---|
| Texture | Thin, drinkable, runny | Thicker, set or stirred |
| Taste | Quite acidic; some people need time to get used to it | Milder to tart, often sweetened when flavored |
| Typical use | Breakfast with cereal, bread or cheese; sometimes served with meat or herring | Breakfast, snacks, sauces |
| Sold as | Boxes packed much like milk, in various flavors in Iceland | Cups and tubs |
Where does skyr fit in?
Skyr is a separate Icelandic product. It is strained to remove whey and is classed as a fresh cheese, so it is thick and high in protein. Súrmjólk is not strained. They are different products.
Nutrition claims
The source for súrmjólk says it contains acidophilus and bifidus bacteria, which it describes as beneficial for digestion. That is a maker or retailer-style claim; health agencies say the effect of probiotics depends on the strain and the condition. I found no verified numbers showing súrmjólk has more protein, calcium or less sugar than yogurt, so ignore any such claim, including those that say it is richer in zinc or B12. Read the nutrition label of what you buy.
Where can you buy it and what can replace it?
Súrmjólk is sold mainly in Iceland. Elsewhere, cultured buttermilk or drinkable plain yogurt is the closest substitute in taste and texture.
Cautions
It is a dairy product, so avoid it with a milk allergy. This is general information, not medical advice.
People also ask
Is súrmjólk the same as skyr?
No. Skyr is strained, thick and classed as a fresh cheese; súrmjólk is thin and drinkable.
What does súrmjólk taste like?
Quite acidic and tangy; people often need time to get used to it.
What can I use instead of súrmjólk?
Cultured buttermilk or thin plain yogurt.
Sources
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