Finally, summer is here. Now is the time to consume cold drinks and foods to combat the scorching heat. In most Indian households, curd or what we call dahi is now included in every diet to combat heat waves. Similarly, yogurt is also sweeping stores and supermarkets. It’s quite interesting, isn’t it? Yogurt and curd are very different dairy products from each other. Surprising, right? Although they look alike and taste the same, almostThe two differ in many aspects, including their texture, consumption and method of preparation.
And no, before you start thinking, yogurt is No the western name for curd!
So, you might be thinking, how exactly are they different from each other? We’ll tell you in a moment.
To understand the difference between yogurt and curd, we have to start from the basics, that is, how they are prepared.
Differences between yogurt and curd
Here are some of the notable differences between yogurt and curd:
Preparation method
The first big difference between yogurt and curd is the way they are prepared.
If you search online for how to make curd, it will tell you that curd is made by coagulating milk with edible acids like lemon juice and vinegar in a process known as curdling. The acetic acid present in edible acids like vinegar reacts with the acid already present in milk. This increase in acidity results in the formation of solid blocks of milk (which are called curds).
But, curd, popularly known as dahi In India, it is prepared through a different process. So from now on, when we mention curd in this article, we will be referring to Indian dahi, not solid blocks of milk.
Curd is made by fermenting milk with the help of lactic acid bacteria. This bacteria reacts with casein, a globular protein found in milk. The bacteria then produce energy during the reaction. As a byproduct of energy formation, lactic acid is produced. This lactic acid then reacts with the globular proteins present in the milk, denatures them and results in the formation of a thick texture, i.e. curd.
Yogurt, on the other hand, is made by fermenting milk using live strains of two bacteria: Lactobacillus bulgaricus and Streptococcus thermophilus and is virtually impossible to prepare at home. The bacteria reacts with the sugar present in milk. The reaction produces lactic acid which then reacts with the milk protein and forms yogurt.
It is important to note that the type of milk used will affect the yogurt produced.
Yogurt is typically produced commercially, artificially sweetened, and available in a variety of flavors.
The chemical reaction involved in the formation of lactic acid is the following:
| C12H22O11 (Lactose) + H2O (Water) -> 4CH3CHOHCOOH (Lactic acid) |
Related | What is the difference between curd and buttermilk?
Lactose amount
Curd contains more lactose than yogurt, but significantly less compared to fresh milk.
Because of this, those who are lactose intolerant prefer yogurt, particularly Greek yogurt, over curd.
Read also | What is the difference between a heart attack and cardiac arrest?
Nutritional value
Curd is rich in calcium, iron, potassium and vitamin B6, while yogurt is a wonderful source of calcium, phosphorus and vitamin B12.
Yogurt reduces the risk of high blood pressure and cholesterol, while curd stimulates the brain and promotes digestion.
Flavors
Curd is traditionally consumed simply without any flavor. In Indian homes it is taken with sugar or jaggery. It is white in color and has a tart or tangy taste, which is used in a variety of recipes, celebrations and consumed as a component of Indian cuisine.
Yogurt, on the other hand, comes in a wide variety of flavors. Yogurt flavors typically include strawberry, mango, and blueberry, among many others. Yogurt has a less sour/sour taste than curd.
Related | What is the difference between ice cream and frozen desserts?
Yogurt or curd: which is better?
Yogurt and curd are good for health and have nutritional values.
- Yogurt is a great source of protein, potassium, molybdenum, pantothenic acid or vitamin B5. Being rich in protein, yogurt is beneficial for weight loss. It is the preference of people with high blood pressure due to its potassium content. Yogurt also contains probiotics, which help maintain healthy gut health.
- Curd is a great option for people with indigestion problems as it helps improve digestion. The digestive system can easily absorb the nutrients in curd. The good bacteria present in curd help in maintaining a strong and healthy immune system. It is a great source of calcium and phosphorus, which is good for overall bone health. Curd also has beauty benefits as it is beneficial for skin and hair.
Both dairy products, yogurt and curd are delicious and good sources of protein, calcium, vitamin D and probiotics. Now, let’s look at the uses of yogurt and curd.
Uses of curd
Curd is a staple food in many cultures and is used for multiple purposes including:
- As a condiment: Curd is often used as a seasoning for dishes like biryani.
- In cooking: It is used to marinate meats and can also be used as a base for sauces and dips.
- As a beauty product: Many people often use curd as a face mask and hair mask to improve the overall health and appearance of the skin or hair.
Uses of yogurt
- As a food: Yogurt is a popular breakfast food eaten alone or with toppings such as fruits, nuts, and granola, among others.
- In cooking: Yogurt is sometimes used as a substitute for sour cream or cream to prepare sauces and dressings.
- For health: Yogurt is rich in probiotics, which can improve intestinal health.
Differences between yogurt and curd: at a glance
Although both yogurt and curd share some similarities and are popular dairy products enjoyed around the world, there are notable differences between the two. They have different flavors, textures, uses and nutritional profiles. Below are the notable differences between yogurt and curd:
| Differences | Curd | Yoghurt |
| Preparation | Milk fermentation using lactic acid bacteria. | Milk fermentation using live strains of two bacteria, called Lactobacillus bulgaricus and Streptococcus thermophilus. |
| Lactose amount | Lower than fresh milk. | Greek yogurt has less lactose than curd. |
| Nutritional value | Vitamin B12, Calcium, Phosphorus | Calcium, Iron, Potassium, Vitamin B6. |
| Flavors | Homemade curd is sugar-free and flavorless. | Yogurt can be found plain or sweetened with a variety of flavors. |
Despite these differences, both yogurt and curd are versatile ingredients that can be used in a variety of dishes, from savory curries to sweet desserts and smoothies. They are also rich in probiotics and other beneficial nutrients. Consuming any of them will help improve your health. We hope this article was helpful in explaining the difference between yogurt and curd.
Disclaimer: This article has been updated and additional information has been added to ensure clarity.
Related | What is the difference between vegan and vegetarian?
Categories: Optical Illusion
Source: ptivs2.edu.vn