Yogurt, a staple in many cuisines worldwide, is a versatile dairy product made by fermenting milk with live bacteria. Indian yogurt, also known as dahi, stands out with its unique characteristics that differentiate it from other types of yogurt.
Key Differences
The primary factors that set Indian yogurt apart are:
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Starter Culture: Indian yogurt is traditionally made using a specific starter culture known as Lactobacillus delbrueckii subsp. bulgaricus and Streptococcus thermophilus. These bacteria strains impart a distinct tangy flavor and thick texture to the yogurt.
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Milk Type: Indian yogurt is typically made from cow’s milk or a combination of cow and buffalo milk. Buffalo milk, with its higher fat content, contributes to the creaminess and richness of Indian yogurt.
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Fermentation Process: Indian yogurt undergoes a longer fermentation process compared to other types of yogurt. This extended fermentation allows the bacteria to fully develop, resulting in a more intense tangy flavor and thicker consistency.
Comparison with Greek Yogurt
Greek yogurt, another popular yogurt variety, differs from Indian yogurt in several aspects:
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Straining: Greek yogurt is made by straining regular yogurt to remove excess whey, resulting in a thicker, creamier texture. Indian yogurt, on the other hand, is not typically strained, giving it a looser consistency.
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Flavor: Greek yogurt has a milder, less tangy flavor compared to Indian yogurt. This difference is attributed to the shorter fermentation time and the use of different starter cultures.
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Protein Content: Greek yogurt is known for its high protein content due to the straining process that removes whey, which contains lactose and carbohydrates. Indian yogurt, while also a good source of protein, has a lower protein content than Greek yogurt.
Health Benefits
Both Indian yogurt and Greek yogurt offer various health benefits:
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Probiotics: Both types of yogurt contain probiotics, live bacteria that support gut health and immune function.
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Calcium: Yogurt is a rich source of calcium, essential for strong bones and teeth.
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Protein: Yogurt provides protein, which contributes to muscle growth and repair.
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Vitamin B12: Yogurt is a good source of vitamin B12, which is important for red blood cell production and nerve function.
Culinary Uses
Indian yogurt is a versatile ingredient used in various culinary preparations:
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Curries and Gravies: Indian yogurt is a key ingredient in many curries and gravies, adding richness, creaminess, and a tangy flavor.
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Raita: Raita is a refreshing yogurt-based condiment commonly served with spicy dishes to balance the heat.
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Lassi: Lassi is a popular Indian yogurt-based drink that can be sweet or savory, often flavored with fruits, spices, or herbs.
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Desserts: Indian yogurt is used in various desserts, such as shrikhand and lassi popsicles, adding a creamy and tangy element.
Indian yogurt, with its unique flavor profile, creamy texture, and health benefits, stands out among yogurt varieties. Its versatility makes it a staple in Indian cuisine, adding richness and tang to various dishes. Whether enjoyed on its own or incorporated into culinary creations, Indian yogurt is a delicious and nutritious dairy product.
Greek Yogurt Vs Curd | Food For Thought
FAQ
What kind of yogurt is used in Indian food?
Is Indian style yogurt good for you?
How to make Indian curd in USA?
What is the American equivalent of dahi?
Do Indians make their own yogurt?
Most Indian households make their own homemade yogurt on a weekly basis. We use it to serve as a side with dal (lentils) and roti, lassi, added into curry for a bit of creaminess, or even to marinate meat or paneer. Once we reach the end of the dahi, we save a spoonful as a starter to make more for the next week.
Does flavored yogurt have too much sugar?
It depends on the type of yogurt, but flavored yogurts are generally high in sugar. A healthier yogurt is one that is neutral, skimmed and naturally sweetened.
What is the difference between curd and Indian yogurt?
The Curd Recipe yields dahi, which can also be called as the Indian Yogurt. However, know that the yogurt available outside India is quite different than the curd, of Indian origin or what is made in Indian households. I’d been getting the most requests on sharing posts on this and even homemade paneer.
What is homemade Indian yoghurt?
Homemade Indian Yoghurt is a snack, a dressing, a dip a dessert too that most Indians love. The regional names of dahi are doi, perugu, thayir, mosaru or masaru. Each region in India has a unique way to add curds even in curries, gravies it gives food a delicious flavour. We have kadhi , dahi vada, chaas, lassi, raita, thepla, and biriyani .