How to Make Homemade Filmjölk: A Simple Guide to the Best Swedish Fermented Milk

Filmjölk is a beloved Swedish dairy product that has a smooth, creamy texture and a mildly tangy flavor. It’s often compared to yogurt but is generally a bit softer and smoother. Filmjölk is made by fermenting milk with a special mesophilic culture, which is the same process used for making Icelandic skyr, but with a different texture and taste. Whether you’ve tasted it in Sweden or are new to this unique dairy delight, making filmjölk at home is simple and rewarding.

In this guide, we’ll show you how to make it from scratch using a mesophilic culture (the same culture used for making skyr). By following these easy instructions, you can enjoy creamy, tangy filmjölk whenever you like. For the best results, it’s recommended to culture the first three batches back-to-back before allowing the culture to rest in the fridge.

What is Filmjölk?

Filmjölk is a traditional Swedish fermented milk product made by culturing milk with special mesophilic bacteria. The process creates a mild, creamy consistency similar to yogurt but with a smoother, more delicate texture. It’s often enjoyed on its own or served with fruit, cereal, or granola. The taste is mildly tangy, and the texture is thick, but still spoonable.

While you can buy yogurt in stores, making it at home allows you to enjoy it fresh and with minimal effort. Plus, you can reuse the culture for multiple batches, making it an economical and sustainable option.

What You’ll Need to Make Filmjölk

• 1 cup of fresh, room-temperature milk (whole milk for creaminess or any milk of your choice)
• ½ teaspoon of mesophilic filmjölk starter culture (or a mesophilic skyr culture)
• A clean glass jar or container with at least a 1-pint (16 oz) capacity
• A lid or breathable cloth to cover the jar

How to Make Filmjölk at Home

Follow these easy steps to activate your mesophilic culture and create your own homemade yogurt:

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients and Container

Start by cleaning your container thoroughly. A 1-pint (16 oz) jar works perfectly for this recipe. Measure out 1 cup of fresh, room-temperature milk. Milk that’s about 70°F will work best for culturing, but if it’s too cold, you can let it sit out a bit to warm up.

Step 2: Add the Starter Culture

Once your milk is at the right temperature, pour it into your clean jar. Sprinkle ½ teaspoon of mesophilic filmjölk starter culture over the surface of the milk. Stir gently to ensure that the culture is fully dissolved and incorporated into the milk.

Step 3: Cover and Let It Culture

Now that your milk is ready, cover the jar loosely with a lid or breathable cloth. The culture needs some airflow, so don’t tighten the lid completely. Place the jar in a warm, stable spot where it can sit undisturbed for 24–48 hours. Aim for a temperature of around 70°F. The milk will begin to thicken and develop a tangy flavor during this time. The longer it cultures, the thicker and more tangy the yogurt will become.

Step 4: Chill to Set

Once your yogurt has thickened to your liking, transfer the jar to the refrigerator. Let it chill for at least 6 hours. Chilling allows the yogurt to set fully, resulting in a creamy, smooth texture.

Step 5: Save a Starter for Your Next Batch

Before you dig into your homemade yogurt, set aside 1 tablespoon of the cultured filmjölk in a separate container. This will act as the starter culture for your next batch. To get the best results, it’s important to culture the first three batches back-to-back. So, for the next few batches, simply combine your 1 tablespoon of reserved yogurt with 1 cup of fresh milk, and repeat the culturing process.

After making three back-to-back batches, you can store the starter in the fridge between batches. Be sure to use the starter within 7 days for the best results.

Tips for Perfect Filmjölk

• Keep the Temperature Stable: Filmjölk cultures best at around 70°F. If your kitchen is too cool, you can try warming the milk slightly before adding the starter. If it’s too warm, it might ferment too quickly.
• Use Whole Milk for a Creamier Texture: For the thickest and creamiest yogurt, whole milk is ideal. However, feel free to experiment with other types of milk if you prefer a lighter consistency.
• First Three Batches: It’s best to culture your first three batches back-to-back, which will strengthen and stabilize the culture for future use.

Enjoying Your Homemade Filmjölk

Once chilled, your homemade yogurt is ready to enjoy! You can eat it on its own, add fruit and a drizzle of honey, or serve it with your favorite granola. It’s also fantastic when mixed into smoothies, baked goods, or served alongside savory dishes.

Making yogurt at home is a great way to enjoy fresh, wholesome dairy with minimal effort. Plus, the process is sustainable and economical, as you can reuse the starter culture for future batches. With these simple steps, you can enjoy creamy, tangy yogurt anytime you like. Happy culturing!

Filmjölk Salad Dressing Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup filmjölk
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar (or lemon juice for a different twist)
• 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup (optional for a touch of sweetness)
• 1 small garlic clove, minced (optional)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh herbs (such as dill, parsley, or chives), finely chopped (optional)

Instructions:

1. In a small bowl, whisk together the yogurt, olive oil, Dijon mustard, and apple cider vinegar (or lemon juice).
2. Add the honey or maple syrup, if using, to balance the tanginess.
3. Stir in the minced garlic, if desired, and fresh herbs for added flavor.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste, and whisk until well combined.
5. Taste and adjust the seasoning or sweetness, adding more honey, vinegar, or salt if needed.
6. Pour over your favorite salad and enjoy!

This dressing pairs wonderfully with a variety of salads, especially those with leafy greens, roasted vegetables, or a fresh cucumber and tomato mix.

1. Creamy Garlic & Herb Filmjölk Dressing

Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup filmjölk
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• 1 teaspoon lemon juice
• 1 small garlic clove, minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh herbs (dill, chives, parsley), finely chopped
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions: Whisk together all the ingredients, adjusting seasoning with salt and pepper. Stir in the garlic and fresh herbs for an aromatic, creamy dressing perfect for simple green salads.

2. Honey Mustard Filmjölk Dressing

Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup filmjölk
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions: Mix all ingredients until smooth. The sweetness from honey and the tanginess of the mustard and vinegar make this dressing perfect for a variety of salads, including those with roasted vegetables or grilled chicken.

3. Spicy Sriracha Filmjölk Dressing

Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup filmjölk
• 1 tablespoon sriracha or chili paste
• 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup
• 1 tablespoon lime juice
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions: Combine the yogurt with sriracha, honey, lime juice, and seasoning. Stir until smooth. This spicy dressing adds a kick to salads with crispy greens, grilled meats, or even as a dipping sauce for roasted veggies.

4. Cucumber Dill Filmjölk Dressing

Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup filmjölk
• 1/4 cup finely grated cucumber (squeeze out excess water)
• 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions: Combine the yogurt with grated cucumber, dill, and lemon juice. Season with salt and pepper. This refreshing dressing is perfect for cucumber-based salads, potato salads, or alongside smoked fish dishes.

5. Lemon and Chive Filmjölk Dressing

Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup filmjölk
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 2 tablespoons fresh chives, finely chopped
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions: Whisk together the yogurt, olive oil, lemon juice, mustard, and chives. Add salt and pepper to taste. This light and zesty dressing pairs well with fresh leafy salads or roasted vegetables.

6. Avocado and Lime Filmjölk Dressing

Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup filmjölk
• 1/2 ripe avocado, mashed
• 1 tablespoon lime juice
• 1 teaspoon olive oil
• 1 small garlic clove, minced
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions: Mash the avocado and mix it with the yogurt, lime juice, olive oil, and garlic. Season with salt and pepper. This creamy and rich dressing is excellent for hearty salads, grain bowls, or taco-style salads.

7. Poppy Seed Filmjölk Dressing

Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup filmjölk
• 1 tablespoon honey
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• 1 tablespoon poppy seeds
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions: Whisk the yogurt with honey, apple cider vinegar, mustard, and poppy seeds. Season to taste. This sweet and tangy dressing is perfect for fresh salads with mixed greens, fruits, or even coleslaw.

8. Smoky Chipotle Filmjölk Dressing

Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup filmjölk
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon chipotle chili powder
• 1 tablespoon lime juice
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions: Whisk together the yogurt, smoked paprika, chipotle chili powder, lime juice, and seasoning. This smoky, spicy dressing is great for southwestern-inspired salads or as a topping for roasted sweet potatoes.

These salad dressings can be made in advance and stored in the fridge for a few days. They’re all versatile and can be adjusted to suit your flavor preferences. Feel free to add or remove ingredients like herbs or sweeteners to customize the dressings for different salads!

Filmjölk is a versatile dairy product that can be used in a variety of ways beyond salad dressings. Here are some other ideas for incorporating filmjölk into your meals and snacks:

1. Smoothies

• Add filmjölk to smoothies for a creamy, tangy base. It pairs well with fruits like berries, bananas, and mangoes. You can blend it with some honey, nuts, or seeds for added flavor and texture.

2. Pancakes or Waffles

• Use filmjölk as a substitute for buttermilk in pancake or waffle batter to create a fluffy, tangy flavor. It also adds a bit of extra richness.

3. Baking (Cakes, Muffins, and Bread)

• Replace milk or buttermilk in baking recipes with filmjölk to make cakes, muffins, or quick breads. It adds moisture and a subtle tang that enhances the flavor.

4. Marinades

• Use filmjölk in marinades for meats (especially chicken or lamb) to tenderize them and add a mild tangy flavor. Combine with herbs, spices, and lemon juice for a flavorful marinade.

5. Soups and Stews

• Stir a few tablespoons of filmjölk into soups or stews to add creaminess without the heaviness of cream. It works particularly well in vegetable-based soups like potato or carrot.

6. Dips

• Mix filmjölk with herbs, spices, and a bit of olive oil or lemon juice to create a creamy, tangy dip. It’s perfect for veggies, chips, or pita bread.

7. Cereal or Granola

• Pour filmjölk over cereal, granola, or oatmeal as a breakfast alternative to milk or yogurt. The tanginess adds a refreshing twist.

8. Dessert Toppings

• Use filmjölk as a topping for desserts like fruit salads, cakes, or pies. You can sweeten it with a little honey or maple syrup and sprinkle with cinnamon for a quick and easy treat.

9. Salad Toppings

• Drizzle filmjölk directly over your salad (especially grain or potato salads) for a creamy dressing. You can enhance it with herbs or spices for more flavor.

10. Pasta Sauces

• Create a creamy pasta sauce by combining filmjölk with garlic, Parmesan cheese, and a bit of lemon juice. It’s a lighter alternative to heavy cream-based sauces.

11. Frozen Yogurt

• Use filmjölk as a base for homemade frozen yogurt by mixing it with sweeteners (like honey or sugar), vanilla, and any flavorings you like. Freeze in an ice cream maker for a creamy, tangy dessert.

12. Smoothie Bowls

• Blend filmjölk with frozen fruit and a handful of greens for a thick smoothie bowl. Top with granola, nuts, seeds, and fresh fruit for a nutritious breakfast or snack.

13. Tzatziki-like Sauce

• Mix filmjölk with grated cucumber, garlic, lemon juice, dill, and olive oil for a creamy, tangy sauce similar to tzatziki. This is great as a dip or a topping for grilled meats or falafel.

14. Over Roasted Vegetables

• Drizzle filmjölk over roasted vegetables (like beets, carrots, or squash) as a tangy dressing, or stir it into the vegetables after roasting to add creaminess.

15. Poached Eggs

• Use filmjölk to make a creamy base for poached eggs. Pour the filmjölk into a pan and heat it gently before adding poached eggs and a sprinkling of herbs or spices.

16. In Smoothie Popsicles

• Combine filmjölk with fruit, sweeteners, and flavorings like vanilla or cinnamon, then pour into molds and freeze for a tangy, creamy frozen treat.

17. Swedish Semla Cream Filling

• Use filmjölk to create a lighter, tangier cream filling for Swedish semlor buns by mixing it with whipped cream, sugar, and cardamom.

18. Cottage Cheese Substitute

• In savory dishes, filmjölk can sometimes be used as a substitute for cottage cheese or ricotta. It can be mixed with herbs and used in lasagnas, stuffed pasta, or savory pastries.

19. In Smoothie Popsicles

• For a refreshing summer treat, combine filmjölk with fruit juice, freeze it in molds, and you have tangy smoothie popsicles that are both healthy and delicious.

20. In Rice Pudding

• Replace milk with filmjölk in a rice pudding recipe to create a tangy, creamy variation that pairs well with cinnamon and fruit.

Filmjölk adds a unique flavor and creaminess to many dishes, making it a great alternative to yogurt, buttermilk, or cream. It’s not only versatile for savory recipes but also works wonderfully in both sweet and tangy applications.

Exploring Mesophilic Starter Cultures: A Comprehensive Guide to Culturing Milk