Yoghurt vs. Curd — What's the Difference?
By Tayyaba Rehman — Updated on October 28, 2023
Yoghurt is a fermented dairy product made using specific bacterial strains. Curd is formed by natural fermentation of milk with lactic acid bacteria. Both are dairy derivatives but differ in consistency, taste, and bacterial strains.
Difference Between Yoghurt and Curd
Table of Contents
ADVERTISEMENT
Key Differences
Yoghurt and Curd are both products of fermented milk. However, they differ in their preparation methods and the bacteria involved. Yoghurt is usually made by introducing specific bacterial strains like Lactobacillus bulgaricus and Streptococcus thermophilus.
Curd, on the other hand, is formed by the natural fermentation of milk when left at room temperature. The lactic acid bacteria present in the environment act on the milk, resulting in the formation of curd. Both Yoghurt and Curd have a tangy flavor, but the specifics of their taste can differ.
In terms of texture, Yoghurt tends to be smoother and creamier, often due to the controlled fermentation process. Curd can sometimes have a more variable texture, as its consistency can change depending on factors like the type of milk used or the duration of fermentation.
Nutritional profiles for Yoghurt and Curd are fairly similar, with both being rich in calcium, protein, and probiotics. However, yoghurt, especially commercial varieties, may come fortified with additional nutrients or probiotic strains, differentiating it from curd.
Both Yoghurt and Curd find extensive use in various cuisines around the world. While Yoghurt is a staple in dishes like Greek tzatziki or Turkish cacik, Curd is more commonly associated with dishes from the Indian subcontinent, like raita or lassi.
ADVERTISEMENT
Comparison Chart
Origin
Made using specific bacteria
Natural fermentation
Bacteria involved
L. bulgaricus, S. thermophilus
Lactic acid bacteria
Consistency
Smoother, creamier
Variable
Nutritional profile
Often fortified, specific strains
Natural, unfortified
Common uses
Tzatziki, cacik
Raita, lassi
Compare with Definitions
Yoghurt
Yoghurt is a thick, tangy milk derivative often eaten plain or flavored.
Vanilla yoghurt is her favorite dessert.
Curd
Curd is a staple in many Indian dishes and drinks.
Curd rice is a comforting meal on a hot day.
Yoghurt
Yoghurt is a creamy dairy product fermented by specific bacterial cultures.
She added a dollop of yoghurt to her morning granola.
Curd
Curd is a dairy product formed by coagulating milk through fermentation.
Fresh curd with a sprinkle of sugar tastes heavenly.
Yoghurt
Yoghurt is a probiotic-rich food beneficial for gut health.
Doctors recommend eating yoghurt to restore gut flora after antibiotics.
Curd
Curd is the result of natural lactic acid fermentation of milk.
She set the milk aside for a few hours to get thick curd.
Yoghurt
Yoghurt is a versatile ingredient used in both savory and sweet dishes.
She made a spicy yoghurt dip for the party.
Curd
Curd is often used as a base for making cheese.
The first step in cheesemaking is separating the curd from the whey.
Yoghurt
Yoghurt results from fermenting milk with particular bacterial strains.
Making yoghurt at home ensures it's free from additives.
Curd
Curd is obtained by coagulating milk in a sequential process called curdling. It can be a final dairy product or the first stage in cheesemaking.
Yoghurt
A custardlike food with a tart flavor, prepared from milk curdled by bacteria, especially Lactobacillus bulgaricus and Streptococcus thermophilus, and often sweetened or flavored.
Curd
The part of milk that coagulates when the milk sours or is treated with enzymes. Curd is used to make cheese.
Yoghurt
Alternative spelling of yogurt
Curd
A lump of curd
Cheese curds.
Yoghurt
A custard-like food made from curdled milk
Curd
A coagulated liquid that resembles milk curd.
Curd
To form or cause to form into curd; curdle.
Curd
The part of milk that coagulates when it sours or is treated with enzymes; used to make cottage cheese, dahi, etc.
Curd
The coagulated part of any liquid.
Curd
The edible flower head of certain brassicaceous plants.
Curd
(intransitive) To form curd; to curdle.
Curd
(transitive) To cause to coagulate or thicken; to cause to congeal; to curdle.
Curd
The coagulated or thickened part of milk, as distinguished from the whey, or watery part. It is eaten as food, especially when made into cheese.
Curds and cream, the flower of country fare.
Curd
The coagulated part of any liquid.
Curd
The edible flower head of certain brassicaceous plants, as the broccoli and cauliflower.
Broccoli should be cut while the curd, as the flowering mass is termed, is entire.
Cauliflowers should be cut for use while the head, or curd, is still close and compact.
Curd
To cause to coagulate or thicken; to cause to congeal; to curdle.
Does it curd thy bloodTo say I am thy mother?
Curd
To become coagulated or thickened; to separate into curds and whey
Curd
A coagulated liquid resembling milk curd;
Bean curd
Lemon curd
Curd
Coagulated milk; used to made cheese;
Little Miss Muffet sat on a tuffet eating some curds and whey
Curd
Curd, rich in probiotics, aids in digestion and gut health.
Eating curd daily can help alleviate digestive issues.
Common Curiosities
Can I make Yoghurt and Curd at home?
Absolutely! Both can be made at home with fresh milk and a starter culture.
Why is Yoghurt often more expensive than Curd?
Yoghurt production requires specific bacterial strains and often undergoes additional processing.
Can Yoghurt and Curd be used interchangeably in recipes?
While similar, they have distinct flavors and consistencies. Substituting might alter the dish's taste and texture.
Which is creamier, Yoghurt or Curd?
Yoghurt is generally creamier due to its controlled fermentation process.
Do Yoghurt and Curd taste the same?
Both have a tangy flavor, but Yoghurt might be milder, and Curd's taste can vary based on fermentation.
What is the primary difference between Yoghurt and Curd?
Yoghurt is made using specific bacterial strains, while curd forms from natural fermentation.
Are Yoghurt and Curd good for lactose-intolerant individuals?
The fermentation process breaks down some lactose, making them easier to digest than milk. Still, sensitivities vary among individuals.
Are there health benefits to consuming Yoghurt and Curd?
Yes, both are rich in calcium, protein, and probiotics beneficial for gut health.
How long can Yoghurt and Curd be stored?
While it varies, refrigerated Yoghurt can last 2-3 weeks, and Curd usually 1-2 days.
Which has more probiotics, Yoghurt or Curd?
Both have probiotics, but commercial yoghurts might be fortified with additional strains.
Can Yoghurt and Curd help in weight loss?
In moderation and as part of a balanced diet, they can be part of a weight loss plan due to their protein content.
Are Yoghurt and Curd the same as cottage cheese?
No, cottage cheese is made by curdling milk with an acid, while Yoghurt and Curd are fermented products.
Can you freeze Yoghurt and Curd?
Yes, but it might alter the texture and consistency upon thawing.
Are there non-dairy versions of Yoghurt and Curd?
Yes, there are plant-based yoghurts made from soy, almond, etc. Non-dairy curd versions are less common but possible.
Share Your Discovery
Previous Comparison
Conversationist vs. Conversationalist
Next Comparison
Jester vs. HarlequinAuthor Spotlight
Written by
Tayyaba RehmanTayyaba Rehman is a distinguished writer, currently serving as a primary contributor to askdifference.com. As a researcher in semantics and etymology, Tayyaba's passion for the complexity of languages and their distinctions has found a perfect home on the platform. Tayyaba delves into the intricacies of language, distinguishing between commonly confused words and phrases, thereby providing clarity for readers worldwide.
