20+ Smart Ways to Use Yogurt Whey
Sneak Peek: Got a stash of leftover yogurt whey? Instead of tossing it, try using it to bake bread, tenderize meat, ferment veggies, or even keep your feta cheese fresh. You might be surprised at just how useful this tangy liquid can be!
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If you make Greek yogurt at home (or even strain store-bought yogurt), you know that whey is the byproduct of the process. If you hesitate to throw it out, that’s understandable. It’s full of protein, probiotics and nutrients.
Some people drink it straight—my husband accidentally tried that once, and let’s just say… it didn’t go over well. 🤦♀️ You can drink it, but it’s an acquired taste! If you find it too tart, try mixing a splash into smoothies or tea.
Luckily, whey is way more useful than just being a tart-tasting drink. From cooking, to gardening, or feeding to animals, here are 20+ creative ways to make use of your leftover yogurt whey.
Two Common Questions:
What’s the Difference Between Yogurt Whey and Cheese Whey?
Yogurt whey (also called acid whey) comes from strained yogurt or sour cream, while sweet whey comes from cheese-making. They aren’t quite the same, so some uses—especially in baking and fermentation—work better with one type over the other.
How Long Does Yogurt Whey Stay Fresh?
Fresh whey lasts up to 2 weeks in the fridge when stored in a clean, airtight container. If it develops an off smell, mold, or unusual separation, it’s time to toss it. For longer storage, freeze whey in ice cube trays and transfer the cubes to a freezer bag. It can last up to 6 months frozen.
20+ Ways to Use Yogurt Whey
1. Use Whey in Bread and Pancakes
Replace water or milk with whey in pizza dough, pancakes, biscuits, or French bread for a subtly tangy flavor, similar to sourdough.
2. Boost Your Protein Smoothies
Stir whey into your protein shakes or morning smoothie for extra probiotics.
3. Make Lacto-Fermented Veggies
Use whey as a starter for sauerkraut, pickles, or fermented bean dips.
4. Soak Whole Wheat Flour
Soaking whole wheat flour in whey helps break down the grains, making it easier to digest.
5. Keep Feta Cheese Fresh
Store feta in whey instead of brine to extend its shelf life and enhance the flavor.
6. Ferment Sauerkraut & Pickles
A little whey speeds up fermentation for homemade pickles and kimchi.
7. Make More Yogurt
Whey can be used as a starter for your next batch of yogurt. This works best when your whey is less than a week old.
8. Feed Your Plants
Tomatoes love the extra calcium from whey! As for hydrangeas, some claim that adding whey to the soil can help turn pink blooms blue by lowering the pH. However, I couldn’t find a reliable source confirming this effect, so if you’re looking to change hydrangea color, it’s safer to use tested soil acidifiers like aluminum sulfate or organic matter such as pine needles or coffee grounds.
9. Make a Creamy Arnold Palmer
Mix whey with iced tea, grape juice, or orange juice for a unique, tart refreshment.
11. Thin Out Hummus or Pesto
Whey adds a tangy depth to homemade hummus, pesto, and other dips.
12. Cook Quinoa in Whey
Swap out whey for water when cooking quinoa for a subtle, savory boost.
13. Boil Oatmeal in Whey
Try simmering oats in whey, then top with dried cherries or nuts.
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14. Make Fermented Pickles
Use whey instead of vinegar for probiotic-rich pickles. Nourishing Traditions(paid link) has more information.
16. Use Whey Like Buttermilk
Marinate chicken in whey before frying, or use it in homemade buttermilk bread.
17. Bake Light, Flaky Biscuits
Whey makes biscuits extra tender. Try these Million-Dollar Flaky Whey Biscuits!
18. Give It to Your Pets
Many pet owners add a small amount of whey to their dog’s food for a probiotic boost. Be sure to consult with your veterinarian first.
19. Preserve Homemade Mayo
A spoonful of whey extends the shelf life of homemade mayonnaise.
Got More Ideas? Let’s Hear ‘Em!
These are just some of the creative ways you can use whey instead of tossing it. If you’ve tried something new, share your experience in the comments!
Questions? Email me: Paula at saladinajar.com. Hope to see you again soon!
Paula Rhodes, owner
As a retired home economist, I created Saladinajar.com to share my belief that you don’t have to be a chef to find joy in creating homemade food worth sharing. Bread machines (used in an unconventional way), homemade yogurt, and quick microwave recipes are my specialty.