दही कैसे बनता है? - #43513

Making curd, or yogurt, at home is both simple and rewarding when you get the steps right. A key element in preparing curd lies in the quality and type of milk you use. Store-bought milk works just fine, but whole milk yields a creamier texture. When using store-bought milk, make sure it’s fresh and not close to it’s expiration date.

Let me explain the steps. First, heat the milk until it is just about to boil — around 180°F or 82°C. Once heated, you need to let it cool to a lukewarm temperature. If you pour the starter culture (like a spoonful of yogurt) into hot milk, it might kill the bacteria needed for fermentation. Wait until it reaches about 110°F or 43°C before adding the starter. A good way to test heat without a thermometer is by dipping a clean finger; it should feel comfortably warm, not hot.

Your sister was right; warmth is crucial. After adding the starter, gently stir to mix the cultures evenly. Cover the milk with a lid, cloth, or a plate to retain the warmth and prevent any unwanted particles from falling in. Keeping the mixture in a warm place aids fermentation. Depending on the ambient temperature, this process can take about 6 to 8 hours or overnight. If your room is cooler, you might consider wrapping the container in a warm towel to maintain consistent warmth.

As for the starter yogurt, go for plain, unflavored, and ideally full-fat yogurt without any additives. The “fancy” yogurt might have stabilizers or flavors that disrupt the process. A small amount, about a tablespoon or two per liter of milk, is sufficient. It’s less about the brand and more about the live cultures—make sure it says “live and active cultures” on the label.

If your curd still doesn’t set, it might be due to the temperature or an inactive starter. Adjust these factors until you get it right. Once you get a good batch, you can use this homemade yogurt as a starter for next time, reducing the need for store-bought yogurt. With patience and practice, you’ll surely impress your family with delicious homemade curd!