A Step-by-Step Guide to Making Homemade Curd

Homemade curd, also known as yogurt, is a delicious and nutritious dairy product that can be easily made at home. Not only is it a versatile ingredient in various dishes, but it also offers numerous health benefits. Making curd at home allows you to have control over the ingredients and the fermentation process, ensuring a fresh and flavorful end product. In this guide, we will walk you through the simple steps to make homemade curd.

Gather the Ingredients

To make curd at home, you will need:

• 1 liter of milk (preferably full-fat)
• 2 tablespoons of curd starter or yogurt culture

Prepare the Milk

Pour the milk into a clean and sterilized pot. Heat the milk on medium heat until it reaches a temperature of about 85-90°C (185-195°F). Stir the milk occasionally to prevent it from scorching.

Cool the Milk

Allow the milk to cool down to a temperature of around 40-45°C (104-113°F). You can speed up the cooling process by placing the pot in a larger container filled with cold water.

Add the Curd Starter

Once the milk has cooled, add the curd starter or yogurt culture to the pot. Mix it well using a clean spoon or whisk to ensure the starter is evenly distributed throughout the milk.

Incubate the Mixture

Transfer the milk and starter mixture into a clean and sterilized container. Cover the container with a lid or plastic wrap to maintain the temperature and prevent any contamination. Place the container in a warm spot, such as an oven with the pilot light on or a warm corner of your kitchen.

Allow Fermentation

Let the mixture ferment undisturbed for about 6-8 hours, or until it reaches the desired consistency and tanginess. The longer you let it ferment, the tangier the curd will become. Check the curd periodically to ensure it is fermenting properly.

Refrigerate and Serve

Once the curd has reached the desired consistency, remove it from the warm spot and refrigerate it for at least 2-3 hours to cool and set further. Once chilled, your homemade curd is ready to be enjoyed. You can serve it as is or use it as an ingredient in various recipes.

Making homemade curd is a simple and rewarding process. With just a few ingredients and some patience, you can create a fresh and flavorful yogurt that can be enjoyed on its own or used in a variety of dishes. Experiment with different flavors and toppings to customize your curd to your liking. Enjoy the creamy goodness of homemade curd!