How to Make Homemade Yogurt (Curd)
Homemade yogurt, commonly referred to as curd, is a versatile and nutritious staple found in most Indian households. It’s an essential element of many meals, beverages, and recipes. Whether paired with parathas and pickles or used in delicious drinks like Mango Lassi or Pineapple Banana & Oat Smoothie, yogurt is an irreplaceable addition to both traditional and contemporary dishes. Furthermore, it is integral to curries such as Doddapatre Tambuli, Punjabi Style Boondi Kadhi, and Dahi Bhindi. Making yogurt at home ensures freshness, purity, and cost-effectiveness. Follow this simple recipe to create creamy, homemade curd effortlessly.
Recipe Details
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Cuisine | Indian |
| Course | N/A |
| Diet | Vegetarian |
| Prep Time | 5 minutes |
| Cook Time | 0 minutes |
| Total Time | 4–8 hours (includes setting time) |
Ingredients
| Ingredient Name | Quantity | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Milk | ½ liter | Boiled and cooled |
| Curd (Dahi/Yogurt) | 1 teaspoon | Used as a starter |
Nutritional Information (Per 100g of Prepared Yogurt)
| Nutrient | Amount | Daily Value (%)* |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | 60 kcal | 3% |
| Protein | 3.5 g | 7% |
| Fat | 3.3 g | 5% |
| Carbohydrates | 4.7 g | 2% |
| Calcium | 120 mg | 12% |
| Vitamin B12 | 0.3 µg | 13% |
Instructions
| Step | Action |
|---|---|
| 1 | Begin by boiling ½ liter of milk. Once it reaches a rolling boil, set it aside to cool. |
| 2 | Ensure the milk cools down to a lukewarm temperature. This step is crucial for proper fermentation. |
| 3 | Transfer the cooled milk into a clean, dry bowl. |
| 4 | Add 1 teaspoon of curd (acting as the starter). Stir gently to mix it evenly. |
| 5 | Place the bowl in a warm, cozy spot in your kitchen. |
| 6 | In humid climates, the yogurt will set within 4 hours. In cooler conditions, leave it overnight. |
| 7 | Check if the yogurt has set. The surface will appear wobbly and firm when ready. |
| 8 | Refrigerate the yogurt once set to stop further fermentation and maintain its consistency. |
Serving Suggestions
Homemade yogurt is a delight in itself, but here are a few serving ideas:
- Enjoy it plain with a pinch of salt, black salt, or sugar for a refreshing side dish.
- Pair it with parathas and your favorite pickle for a comforting meal.
- Incorporate it into beverages like Mango Lassi or Pineapple Banana & Oat Smoothie for a nutritious drink.
- Use it as an essential ingredient in dishes like Mixed Vegetable Sambar, Steamed Rice, and Pisarna Manga for a traditional South Indian lunch.
Pro Tips
- Ideal Starter Curd: Use fresh and active curd as a starter for the best results. If your starter is old or inactive, the yogurt may not set properly.
- Temperature Matters: Ensure the milk is lukewarm (not hot) before adding the starter, as high temperatures can kill the active cultures.
- Perfect Environment: In colder climates, wrap the bowl in a towel or place it in an insulated container to maintain warmth during the setting process.
By mastering this simple technique, you can create fresh, preservative-free yogurt at home, elevating the flavor of your meals and adding a wholesome touch to your diet.
