Curd And Yogurt: Are They Different?
Gaurang Joshi
Both curd and yogurt are the derivatives of milk that are prepared by the process of curdling. But did you know that both of them, though similar in appearance, are quite different from each other?
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If you are new to the world of diet management, then the question regarding the difference between curd and yogurt might be on top of your list.
However, there is a common misconception among the public that both Curd and Yogurt are the same, the difference between the two occurs due to their different ways of preparation. In our article below, we cover valuable details on difference between yogurt and curd.
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Table of Contents
Preparation
1. Curd
Curd, considered to be good for people who are lactose intolerant, is prepared by the process of coagulating milk after boiling it and then cooling it at 30-45℃. This process is called curdling.
Preparation of curd involves the addition of a broad class of LAB (Lactic Acid Bacteria), which when added, converts the lactose of the milk into lactic acid, thus, making it digestible. Curd is generally prepared by adding a spoonful of curd in lukewarm milk and then leaving it to rest for a few hours.
Since a broad range of lactic acid bacteria is used for the preparation of curd, its strength and lactose concentration differ based on the nature of the bacteria.
2. Yogurt
Yogurt, yet another milk derivative, is also prepared by the separation of solid milk particles, but, unlike Curd, the coagulation is done by adding specific strains of bacteria called Lactobacillus bulgaris and Streptococcus thermophilus.
Yogurt, due to its lack of lactose, is also good for people who are lactose intolerant. Since a specific strain of bacteria is used for its preparation, yogurt tends to be more standardized and homogenous when compared with curd.
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Similarities Between Yogurt and Curd
Though there are many differences between yogurt and curd, they too have a few similarities as well.
- Both look similar in appearance.
- Curd and Yogurt are milk products made from milk and it’s not Vegan.
- For people with lactose intolerant, should not consume curd or yogurt, as both contain a portion of lactose.
How Different Are Curd And Yogurt?
As mentioned earlier, the processes of preparation of Curd vs Yogurt are different, and due to this, yogurt is more standardized and homogenous than curd.
The other major difference between the curd and yogurt can be pointed out by looking at the nutrients present in both based on the size of servings.
Nutrition Facts
A 100g serving of yogurt contains just over 5mg of cholesterol, whereas, an intake of a 100g serving of curd provides 17mg of cholesterol.
Apart from cholesterol, the other nutrient that differs both in curd and yogurt is calories. A 100g serving of curd contains over 98 calories out of which one-third are from fat, whereas in 100g of yogurt, there are 59 calories with half of it coming from fat.
Know the Detailed Nutritional Facts and value of Yogurt or Curd.
Flavours
1. Curd
Ever heard of Curd flavours?
No! Right. As we know, Curd has its own acidic natural flavour.
2. Yogurt
Whereas, Yogurt comes in different flavours. Greek Yogurt is the most liked Yogurt. Yogurt flavours available in markets are vanilla flavoured yogurt, strawberry flavoured yogurt, plain yogurt, mango yogurt, etc. They are some savory flavoured yogurts too.
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Uses
1. Curd
Curd has numerous health benefits and uses.
- Used in marinating paneer, chicken, etc.
- Used to make beverages like lassi, buttermilk, or chaas.
- Chaats – Curd is used in most of the chaats.
- Consumed in form of Raita.
2. Yogurt
As yogurt is mostly prepared in the factory unlike curd, which can be prepared at home, has many uses.
- Can be consumed in breakfast as it comes in many flavours.
- Rich in Protein.
Health Benefits
1. Curd
- Curd improves digestion. Having buttermilk on the daily basis may help you combat digestion-related issues.
- Curd reduces dandruff and hair fall, making hair stronger. It also works as a conditioner, making hair ends smooth.
- It is good for the skin; it moisturizes the skin. Include curd as a part of the face mask and apply it for 15 minutes.
2. Yogurt
- Yogurt is rich in protein, so it is good to add to your weight-loss diet as it aids in weight loss.
- Yogurt contains both prebiotic and probiotic substances, which makes it highly nutritional for our gut.
- It is rich in calcium and potassium, which helps in controlling high blood pressure.
Frequently Asked Questions
So, now you know the difference between curd and yogurt. We will discuss questions such as which is better, are they replaceable, and which is more beneficial?
Both yogurt and curd are beneficial.
Because yogurt has more protein than curd, it is best for people focusing on weight loss. For people with lactose intolerance, yogurt could be the right choice.
Curd, on the other hand, is a great homemade cure for stomach-related issues. A glass of buttermilk (made from curd), immediately re-hydrates the body in summers.
Yes, curd can be used instead of yogurt. If you are lactose intolerant, consider consulting a doctor before consuming.
Can curd substitute yogurt in the recipe?
As long as the recipe is flexible, curd can substitute yogurt. If recipes demand a specific taste or procedure, then it should be tested or experimented first. Although, there won’t be much difference in overall taste.
The main difference between yogurt and curd is their preparation process. Curd is made by curdling milk with the help of vinegar, lemon, or starter curd. On the other hand, yogurt is made by the bacterial fermentation of milk.
No. Curd and yogurt are not the same. They have different preparation processes. Curd contains Lactobacillus Bacterium, while Yogurt contains Lactobacillus Bulgaris Bacterium.
Yogurt is commercially made. It is lactose-free and is available in different flavors.
Curd, on the other hand, is made at home and is more natural. It is an Indian staple food and is used in many Indian recipes. It is not lactose-free.
Final Words
Here we have covered the differences as well as similarities between yogurt vs curd. Many people do wonder if curd and yogurt are the same? Though there are a lot of differences between curd and yogurt, they both would prove to be extremely helpful when included in your daily diet. Benefits such as strengthening of bones, improving immunity, and aiding in weight loss, are common for both. So, if you are looking for things to eat, which tastes good and are also beneficial for your health, then both curd and yogurt can be great choices.
