We often find it difficult to stop drooling for a plate of dahi papdi chaat or dahi puri. Beating the summer heat is effortless with a wholesome bowl of curd rice. But is curd good for us only when it is consumed?
Curd, popularly called dahi in India, is one of the healthiest dairy products. It is a staple food that's accompanied with several dishes. Curd is one of the easiest milk product to be made.
All you need is a small quantity of curd, which has to be added to well-boiled milk to make it thick. When the milk is left overnight, it becomes curd.
Curd can be eaten with rice as a main course or used to make sides like raita. It is also churned into a popular dessert called lassi, which is sweet. Lassi is like a counterpart for buttermilk. Curd is also used as a topping in street food to give flavours.
Curd is consumed worldwide, but in most Indian homes, people prefer to homemade curd. Homemade curd is free from unwanted preservatives or chemicals.
Homemade curd is healthier, thicker, tasty, and, most importantly, it is fresher than the one bought in stores.
Curd is tasty. But are there varieties or types of curd?
Types of curd consumed by various people across the globe
There are a few types of curd like
Regular curd is the curd that forms when milk gets sour, and the proteins and liquids separate to form a new texture. This is the first step in the curd-making process.
A sweet curd, famous in British culture and is formed when sugar, water, eggs, cream from milk, natural flavours, and pectin are combined to create a smooth spread.
Yoghurt and kefir are derivations of curd as well, with different elements added to the fermented milk in their formation. Lactic acid transforms curds into yoghurt, while kefir is the oldest type of instigated milk. This was popular in the Northern Caucasus, Russia.
The significance of Curd in Indian food
When healthy bacteria are added to milk, the stirring will make liquid milk curdle. The main healthful substance, probiotics in curd, is formed when lactose present in milk is converted into lactic acid.
It is beneficial to consume curd cold, as nutritional experts recommend to avoid heated curd because heating kills the good bacteria present in them.
Also, avoid consuming curd-based foods if you have congestion, as it increases mucus production.
Fresh curd or sour curd, in which all the whey has been drained fully, is used in Indian dishes.
Nutrition in curd
Nutrition Info. (per serving or 100g)
- 98 KCal
- 3.4g of carbohydrates
- 4.3g of fat
- 11g of proteins
- 364mg of sodium
- 104mg of potassium
How might curd benefit your face?
Beauty professionals frequently attribute the skincare benefits to curd. Being a primary source of lactic acid and other various good bacteria, curd helps the body to form new skin cells.
Curd can also act as a natural moisturizer and also minimize the appearance of
- Large pores
Curd contains lactic acid. Lactic acid helps tighten the pores. Take two spoons of curd and apply it evenly on your face. Leave it for a few minutes and wash it with water. Do this regularly and the open pores will disappear over time.
- Acne scars
Curd contains bacteria that are good for the gut and skin. Curd also contains protein, calcium and vitamin D, that improves skin complexion. Its anti-inflammatory properties help in reducing acne.
- Fine lines
The lactic acid in curd lightens the skin. Curd gets absorbed into the skin easily and works instantly. Applying curd on the face prevents wrinkles and tightens the skin.
- Sun damage
Curd is a natural sun tan remover. It can decrease pigmentation and dark spots on the skin. Curd acts as a natural bleaching agent to fight sun tan. Mix some curd in a bowl and add a pinch of turmeric. Apply it on your face to reduce sun damage.
Applying curd or milk directly to the pigmented area can be a helpful home remedy. People should let the curd sit for a few minutes, and then rinse the area thoroughly.
- Curd can be directly applied to the face, or we can add a few drops of lemon juice and cucumber to the curd.
- Grind the mixture and make a smooth paste.
- Apply the paste to your face and leave it for a few minutes. Wash it off your face with water.
Curd can be mixed with other natural ingredients for various skin types.
A patch test can be done by applying a mixture to a small skin area. However, if itchiness and swelling occur, don't use the mixture on your face. Suppose you develop any signs of symptoms in 24 hours. It is important to consult a doctor for treatment.
Are curd and yoghurt the same thing?
Although they look similar, curd and yoghurt are different.
Curd is made by curdling milk with an edible acidic substance, similar to ginger or citrus juice.
To sum up
More clinical research is required to support the anecdotal benefits associated with the use of curd for the face.
It is better to talk to a dermatologist to educate ourselves on how curd might affect our skin type. Consider adding curd as a natural ingredient to improve skin health.
