Yogurt is an incredibly popular food all over the world, and India is no exception. In fact, the consumption of yogurt is deeply ingrained in Indian culture and is a staple ingredient in many traditional Indian dishes. However, if you’ve ever traveled to India or are familiar with Indian cuisine, you might have noticed that yogurt is referred to by a variety of different names, depending on the region and language.
In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the many names for yogurt in India and explore the cultural significance of this beloved food. Whether you’re a yogurt enthusiast or just curious about Indian cuisine and culture, this guide will provide you with a deeper understanding of the role that yogurt plays in India’s rich culinary traditions. So grab a spoon and let’s dive in!
The History of Yogurt in India
The history of yogurt in India dates back thousands of years. Yogurt, also known as curd or dahi in India, is believed to have been a part of the Indian diet since ancient times. According to Ayurveda, an ancient Indian system of medicine, yogurt is considered an essential food for maintaining good health and promoting digestion.
The process of making yogurt in India involves fermenting milk with a culture of friendly bacteria, known as Lactobacillus bulgaricus and Streptococcus thermophilus. Indian households have been making yogurt at home using this traditional method for generations. Yogurt is also an important ingredient in several Indian dishes, including curries, gravies, and biryanis. Today, yogurt is a widely consumed food in India, with a huge variety of flavors and types available in the market, including Greek yogurt, low-fat yogurt, and flavored yogurt.
The Different Types of Yogurt in India
India is home to a diverse range of cultures and cuisines. Unsurprisingly, the country also boasts a vast array of yogurt varieties. From sweet to savoury, dessert to drink, there is no shortage of ways to enjoy this creamy staple.
One famous variety of Indian yogurt is the “dahi,” which is a thick, smooth, and tangy yogurt that is easily found in Indian shops. Another type is the “lassi,” which is a popular drink made by combining yogurt, water, and sugar, and sometimes flavored with fruits or spices. Additionally, Indian cuisine is rich in a variety of raitas – a yogurt-based side dish that can be made with various vegetables and herbs. With these various types of yogurt, it is of no wonder that India has secured its place as a popular yogurt-producing nation in the world.
The Benefits of Yogurt in Indian Cuisine
Yogurt, or dahi as it is commonly called in India, has been a staple in Indian cuisine for centuries. The creamy and tangy taste of yogurt not only adds a rich texture to many dishes but also brings with it various health benefits.
One of the most notable benefits of yogurt is that it aids in digestion. Yogurt contains probiotics that help promote the growth of healthy gut bacteria, ensuring smooth digestion and reducing the risk of various digestive disorders. Yogurt is also a rich source of protein, making it an ideal food for vegetarians and those who follow a plant-based diet. Additionally, it contains essential vitamins and minerals like calcium, which is important for maintaining strong bones and teeth. Overall, yogurt is a versatile and nutritious ingredient that adds great flavor and health benefits to many Indian dishes.
Yogurt as a Cultural Staple in India
Yogurt, or curd as it is commonly known in India, is more than just a source of calcium or a healthy probiotic food. It is deeply rooted in Indian culture and has been an essential part of Indian cuisine for centuries. In fact, it is difficult to imagine a single meal without curd in India.
Curd is used in multiple ways in Indian cuisine. It is eaten plain, mixed with sugar or salt, used as a condiment, added to drinks and smoothies, and used in cooking as a marinade or added to gravies for a creamy texture. Moreover, curd is often served as a side dish in Indian meals as it is believed to help digest spicy food. Overall, curd plays a crucial role in Indian culture as a versatile and indispensable ingredient in Indian cuisine.
The Regional Variations of Yogurt in India
India, being a diverse country, has different regional variations of yogurt. One of the most popular variants is Dahi, which is commonly consumed in North India. It is often made from cow’s milk and is thick in consistency, with a tangy taste. Another interesting yogurt variation is Shrikhand, which is a dessert commonly eaten in Maharashtra and Gujarat. It is made by straining the liquid out of the yogurt and mixing it with sugar, saffron, and other spices. It has a sweet flavor and is often garnished with nuts and fruits.
In South India, yogurt is known as Thayir or Curd. It is often consumed with rice, samosas or as a standalone dish. It is also an essential ingredient in making the famous South Indian dish – Dosa. In the eastern regions of India, yogurt is called Mishti Doi, which is a sweet yogurt made by adding jaggery or sugar to the milk before fermentation. These regional variations add diversity and richness to the culinary culture of India.
Yogurt-based Desserts in Indian Cuisine
Yogurt-based desserts are a popular part of Indian cuisine and are typically served chilled. One of the most famous desserts is shrikhand, which is made by straining yogurt and mixing it with sugar and saffron. Other popular desserts include lassi, a sweet yogurt drink that is often flavored with fruits such as mango or strawberry, and mishti doi, a creamy yogurt pudding that is popular in East India.
Another popular dessert is dahi bhalla, which is made by soaking fried lentil balls in yogurt and topped with tamarind chutney and spices. Raita, a side dish made with yogurt and a variety of vegetables, is also a popular accompaniment to many Indian dishes. In India, yogurt-based desserts not only provide a sweet finish to a meal but are also believed to aid digestion and serve as a cooling antidote to spicy foods.
Buying and Using Yogurt in Indian Cooking
Buying and using yogurt in Indian cooking is essential to achieve the authentic taste and texture of traditional Indian dishes. When buying yogurt in India, it is important to look for plain, unflavored yogurt with no added sugars or preservatives. Local dairy brands such as Amul, Mother Dairy, and Nestle are some of the popular options available in India.
Yogurt is a staple ingredient in Indian cooking and is used in a variety of dishes such as curries, marinades, and dips. It is also used as a tenderizer for meat and as a base for refreshing drinks like lassi. When cooking with yogurt, it is important to add it towards the end of the cooking process to prevent it from curdling. Yogurt can also be used as a healthy substitute for cream in many recipes. Overall, buying and using yogurt correctly is important for anyone looking to prepare traditional Indian cuisine.
Verdict
To sum up, yogurt is known as “dahi” in India and has been a staple in the Indian diet for centuries. The usage of yogurt in Indian cuisine is versatile and vast, ranging from main courses to desserts. Yogurt is used as a base for many popular dishes such as raita, lassi, and shrikhand. Indian yogurt is thick and creamy, with tangy and mildly sour flavor due to the fermentation process.
In addition to its culinary significance, yogurt has several health benefits. It is a rich source of protein, calcium, and probiotics, which promote digestion and boost the immune system. Yogurt is also known to reduce the risk of heart disease and improve bone health. Therefore, dahi or Indian yogurt is not just a popular food, but it also plays a crucial role in maintaining good health.