I ♡ Кисело Мляко

There are many things to moan about when you live in Bulgaria but Bulgarian yogurt is not one of them.  It's just so delicious and far superior to any other variety (including the inferior Greek version).  The government here has just licensed a number of companies to produce "real" Bulgarian yogurt to ensure standards are maintained and presumably to develop the export market (Apparently 60% of yogurt eaten in Japan is Bulgarian). If the French can copyright Champagne and the Greeks, Feta cheese why can't the Bulgarians do the same for yogurt?

Bulgarian yogurt is made from buffalo, sheep or goat's milk. I eat it every day. It has a beautiful creamy flavour with a texture of soft ice-cream. It is also extremely versatile food and can be used in cold soups (delicious in summer) or as a refreshing drink. It can also be eaten as an accompaniment with that other Bulgarian staple, banitza. As a health food the benefits are enormous:

• Yogurt is identified as a reason for longevity. Bulgaria is one of the countries with the biggest number of people aged 100 years and older
• Bulgarian yogurt is one of the best probiotics out there
• Yogurt is an excellent source of "good" bacteria that is needed in the digestive tract
• Yogurt strengthens the immune system and helps prevents tumor growth. Its high concentration of calcium also helps against osteoporosis and reduces cholesterol levels
• It reduces the risk of high blood pressure
• Active cultures help certain gastrointestinal conditions
• Bulgarian yogurt is organic yogurt and organic yogurt is an excellent diet food.