Difference between Yoghurt and Curd (2024)

“Dairy” is a broad term that includes several products. There exists a lot of doubts about the actual difference between these products. One such confusing pair is curd and yoghurt. Most people in India think that Yoghurt is just the western name for curd. Here is some information that will make you understand the difference between these two products.

1. It all starts with the preparation

The first basic difference between curd and yoghurt lies in the method of their preparation. In almost every Indian household, the curd is prepared by curdling milk with natural acidic substances like lemon juice. On the other hand, yoghurt is fermented with artificial acids and it usually cannot be prepared in your kitchen.

  • You can make curd at home by curdling milk with either lime or vinegar

  • Yoghurt is simply a fermented product

2. Amount of good bacteria

Both curd and yoghurt contain bacteria, which The amount of bacteria in yoghurt is significantly higher when compared to curd. Also, in curd, the bacterial population is a mixed bag. Whereas, while preparing yoghurt, specific types (or strains in scientific terms) of bacteria are used.

  • Curd contains several types of Lactic acid bacteria

  • Yoghurt is a commercial fermentation product of milk by using specific bacteria

3. A boon to lactose-intolerant people

There are people around the world who are lactose intolerant. In simple terms, these people are allergic to milk products containing lactose. Curd contains lower amounts of lactose when compared to fresh milk. However, it is not highly recommended. Yoghurt is highly preferred for lactose-intolerant individuals, especially Greek-styled yoghurt.

  • Greek yoghurt is generally thick and is prepared after straining out whey

  • This is highly recommended as a nutritional source

4. Pick it up from a wide range of flavours

Normally desi Dahi or curd is consumed without any flavours. It is white with a strongly acidic or sour taste. It is usually consumed as a part of Indian cuisine along with rice.It is also used in the preparation of several Indian dishes right from Hyderabadi Biriyani to Punjabi lassi.

On the other hand, yoghurt is available in a lot of fruity flavours. You could have strawberry, mango or even chocolate flavoured yoghurt (This is why kids love yoghurt).

  • Dahi or curd is used in the preparation of dishes

  • Yoghurt (Both flavoured and unflavoured ones) are available in ready-to-consume packs.

5. Curd Vs Yoghurt - Which is more beneficial?

Both curd and yoghurt have nutritional benefits. Curd, in general, cools down your body. It neutralizes the effect of spices, which is usually very high in Indian cuisine. On the other hand, Yoghurt is a rich source of protein. There are a few types of yoghurt that contain twice the amount of protein as curd. Both curd and yoghurt are rich in vitamins and minerals that are vital for the body. These substances aid in the prevention of diseases like arthritis and osteoporosis in elder people.

  • Curd contains high amounts of calcium and phosphorous that strengthens your bones and teeth

  • Yoghurt is filled with the goodness of proteins.

All dairy products are good for health and curd and yoghurt are no exceptions on that list. The side-effects or harm by dairy products, in general, is very low. Dairy products aid in achieving the daily protein requirements. Learn more about the health benefits of dairy products from our Milky Mist website.

Difference between Yoghurt and Curd (2024)

FAQs

Difference between Yoghurt and Curd? ›

Curd is made by mixing milk with lemon or Curd, which yields several types of Lactic acid bacteria also known as Lactobacillus. Whereas, Yogurt is made by commercial fermentation of milk by ingesting a particular type of bacteria strain.

What is the difference between curd and yogurt? ›

Curd typically has a looser texture and a milder flavour, as its fermentation process is less controlled. Yoghurt, on the other hand, undergoes a more controlled fermentation, resulting in a thicker, custard-like consistency and a distinct tangy taste.

What is curd called in the USA? ›

Curd or dahi is called yogurt in the United States. Yogurt is a commercialized product that is made from milk that has been heat-treated to kill live bacteria. Dahi is a traditional yogurt that is made from cow's milk, buffalo milk, or goat milk.

Why do Indians call yogurt curd? ›

Food historian Ken Albala, per Serious Eats, says, "Only in India does the term 'curds' also refer to yogurt, which I'm pretty sure is an accidental Anglicism — applying a familiar English term to something totally different because they had not yet begun to use the word yogurt (which comes directly from Turkish)."

Can I eat curd instead of yogurt? ›

Curd is a remarkable substitute for yogurt in various recipes, offering a milder taste and an array of health benefits. From being a versatile ingredient in cooking to providing essential nutrients, curd proves to be a valuable addition to your culinary endeavors.

Is Greek yogurt and Indian curd the same? ›

Difference between Dahi and Greek Yogurt

Traditional Indian yogurts usually involve a long fermentation process that results in an intense tangy flavor. Greek yogurt is made with strained cow's milk, resulting in a thick and creamy texture. It is usually unflavored and less sour than Indian yogurt.

Which is better probiotic curd or yogurt? ›

The presence of live bacteria in both yogurt and curd makes for a win-win situation. Apart from that, if you are lactose intolerant and also are strictly into weight loss then you can choose unflavoured greek yogurt over the curd, otherwise, both these probiotic foods should be included for a balanced diet.

What is the English name for curd? ›

The English name for curd is "yogurt." In many English-speaking countries, the term "yogurt" is used to refer to the fermented dairy product made from milk using specific bacterial cultures. It has a creamy texture, tangy taste, and is often consumed as a standalone food or used as an ingredient in various recipes.

What is the Indian name for curd? ›

Curd, also mosaru or dahi or Thayir or Perugu, is a traditional yogurt or fermented milk product, originating from and popular throughout the Indian subcontinent.

Which curd is best? ›

Homemade curd is always best for your health. Curd made out of Cow milk is less thick than comparative to Curd made out of Buffalo milk, as it has less amount of protein named – 'Casein'. The strength of bacteria in curd made at home is more between 12 to 24 hours and so it's very healthy for your body.

Is curd good for gut health? ›

Probiotics in curd enhance the body's natural defense mechanisms, strengthening the immune system. A healthy gut is closely linked to a strong immune system, and curd contributes to maintaining the gut's health.

Which country invented curd? ›

It is unquestionably an important part of the Indian diet. But this all-too-common ingredient of Indian cuisine, was not invented in our country. Presumably, curd has its roots in many different places and at different times. It most likely originated in the Middle East and Central Asia.

Why is curd not good at night? ›

According to Ayurveda, curd can increase the kapha dosha in the body. At night, there is a natural predominance of kapha in the body. This can lead to excess mucus development in the nasal passages. Still, the impact can vary from person to person and may not be true for everyone.

Are kefir and curd the same? ›

While both are cultured, kefir contains more probiotics and is fermented for a longer period of time, resulting in a higher count of colony-forming units (CFU) – and by a landslide. Some commercial yogurts don't actually contain probiotics because they are pasteurized after fermentation.

Is curd a healthy food or not? ›

Curd is a good source of essential nutrients such as protein, calcium, vitamin B12, and phosphorus. It provides a nourishing option for those seeking nutrient-dense food to support overall health and well-being. Incorporating curd into your diet can offer these health benefits.

What is Greek yogurt called in India? ›

Greek Yogurt is also known as 'dahi ka chakka' in Indian regional languages. Since the whey is completely drained off from the curd and what is left of it is a thick, creamy and smooth Hung Curd, it is apt to make raita, dips, chutneys and other similar accompaniments/condiments.

What is another word for curd? ›

On this page you'll find 63 synonyms, antonyms, and words related to curd, such as: clotting, clump, lump, array, batch, and battery.

What is better buttermilk or curd? ›

Fewer Calories: Due to its lower fat content, buttermilk generally has fewer calories than curd. This makes it a preferable option for those who are watching their calorie intake. Probiotics: Like yogurt, buttermilk is fermented and contains probiotics. These beneficial bacteria are good for gut health.

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