Curd, often known as dahi, is an essential ingredient in Indian cuisine.
According to the National Dairy Development Board (NDDB), over 80% of Indian households consume curd daily. It is one of the most popular dairy products across all regions and age groups.
Beyond the simple dish of dahi-chawal, it is a traditional dairy product. It is used for nutrition, wellness, beauty, and even at festivals.
Dahi is rooted in traditional dairy practices. Its natural fermentation process makes it rich in probiotics.
Curd has a strong presence across Indian meals, from daily lunches to festive dishes. It remains one of the most versatile and essential dairy items in Indian kitchens.
Understanding the Process
Making curd at home is more than just a culinary task; it’s a timeless tradition. The method requires only warm and fresh milk and a small tablespoon of jaman.
This is left to ferment for 5-8 hours, depending on the weather. What was the result? Milk gradually thickens to a wobbling, pudding-like consistency with a tangy, refreshing flavour.
This procedure, which is still commonly used throughout India, shows the roots of traditional dairy practices. It is made with most local ingredients, so keep it natural, and let time do the job.
No artificial thickeners or preservatives are required.
Curd remains a staple of Indian cuisine. Even after five decades of urbanisation and food innovation, it still holds its place.
Curd in Everyday Indian Meals
Curd is quite versatile. It is served alongside hot parathas and biryanis to tone down the heat.
Dahi provides the base of raitas and chaas. It appears in traditional South Indian cuisines such as kadhi, dahi vada, and mor kuzhambu.
In reality, curd gives many regional dishes a distinct flavour. Fermentation, an essential stage in dahi production, is part of India’s culinary legacy.
These traditional dairy techniques improve taste and increase nutrient content. Dahi often serves as the star ingredient in dishes such as idli and dosa batters, dhokla, and even homemade lassi.
Nutritional Benefits of Curd
Curd is a complete food, high in calcium, protein, phosphorus, and probiotics. It assists digestion, builds bones, lowers cholesterol, and promotes intestinal health.
It’s rich in probiotics, in particular, regulates the gut flora, which aids nutrient absorption and strengthens the immune system. Lactose intolerant persons may find curd easier to stomach than milk since fermentation breaks down lactose.
This nutritional simplicity stems directly from traditional dairy processes, which include organically fermenting food rather than chemically altering it.
Beauty and Wellness Advantages of Curd
Curd not only nourishes the body inside, It offers several scientifically supported health benefits. Curd-based treatments have been passed down through generations and are prevalent in Indian households.
For Hair: A mixture of curd and egg or honey creates a fantastic deep conditioner, providing shine and strength.
For dandruff, sour curd is a natural antifungal treatment.
Curd blended with powdered oats or turmeric works as a soothing face mask to treat sunburn, dryness, and dullness.
These time-tested methods, based on traditional dairy practices, have endured because they work; naturally and successfully.
Curd Recipes to Make at Home
Here are two dishes where curd plays an important role:
1. Dahi Ke Kebab.
These kebabs are tender, crispy, and full of taste.
Ingredients:
Hung curd – 1 ½cup
Black salt – a generous pinch
Ginger chopped – ½tbsp
Coriander stems chopped – 2 tbsp
Roasted cumin powder – 2 tsp
Salt – to taste
Onion chopped – 2 tbsp
Green chili chopped – 1 no
Fried onion – 3 tbsp
Grated Paneer – 1/3 cup
Method: Mix all the ingredients except for bread crumbs & oil. Make sure the curd is very thick.
Lightly oil the hands and make small balls of curd. Dunk them in bread crumbs.
Refrigerate the kebabs for 15 mins. In the meantime heat oil.
Remove the kebab from the fridge and directly add it to the hot oil to get a golden fried colour.
Remove and serve them hot.
2. Rose Lassi.
A fantastic summer drink, both refreshing and aromatic.
Ingredients:
Curd 4 cups
Rosewater 3 tablespoons
Dried rose petals crushed 3 tablespoon to garnish
Rose syrup as required
Green cardamom powder 1 teaspoon
Sugar 1 cup
Fresh malai 3 tablespoons
Pistachios, Almonds chopped as required
Method: Take curd in a bowl and whisk till smooth. Add cardamom powder, 1 tablespoon rose water and ½ tablespoon crushed dried rose petals and whisk well.
Add sugar and whisk till the sugar dissolves completely. Add malai and whisk till smooth.
Spread some pistachios and almonds on a plate and mix them well.
Take rose syrup in a bowl, dip the rims of tall serving glasses in the syrup and coat them with the pistachio-almond mixture.
Pour lassi into the glasses, sprinkle some crushed dried rose petals on top and serve immediately.
Why Traditional Dairy Practices Matter More Today.
In an era where food is becoming increasingly processed, returning to traditional dairy methods is necessary. These procedures keep food healthful, natural, and free of unneeded additives. Curd, as a fermented product, contains beneficial bacteria and is best consumed fresh or naturally set.
Consumers increasingly seek transparency, fewer ingredients, and greater authenticity when purchasing curd produced traditionally or producing it at home. And curd, which is based on simplicity, is ideal for this lifestyle.
Integrating Curd into a Balanced Routine
Curd remains a significant part of the Indian diet due to its nutritional value, versatility, and cultural relevance. Whether it is consumed directly, used in cooking, or applied for personal care, curd offers wide-ranging benefits.
Its presence on the Indian plate is constant, not because of trends, but because of the value it provides, which is supported by time-tested dairy methods.
For those looking for ready-to-use, fresh curd made from high-quality milk using these traditional methods, Vijay Dairy offers a reliable option. With over 50 years of experience in dairy processing, the brand ensures purity, consistency, and a commitment to preserving the traditional values of Indian dairy culture.