What is hung curd, chakka dahi? Glossary, Uses, benefits, recipes of Hung Curds |

Hung curd, known as chakka dahi in India, is a versatile dairy product made by draining excess whey from regular yogurt. This process results in a thicker, creamier, and more concentrated form of curd, similar in consistency to soft cheese or Greek yogurt. The traditional method involves placing fresh dahi (yogurt) in a muslin cloth or a fine-mesh sieve and allowing it to hang for several hours, or even overnight, enabling the liquid whey to drip away. This slow drainage enriches the curd, intensifying its flavor and making it a popular ingredient across various Indian cuisines.

In India, chakka dahi is a staple in many households, especially during festivals and special occasions. Its unique texture makes it ideal for a variety of culinary applications. It's the primary base for popular sweets like shrikhand and amrakhand, where it's mixed with sugar, saffron, cardamom, and fruit pulp. Beyond desserts, hung curd is also widely used in savory dishes. It's a key ingredient in creamy raitas, marinades for tikkas and kebabs, and even some gravies, lending a rich and smooth consistency without adding excessive fat.

The culinary uses of hung curd extend beyond traditional recipes. In contemporary Indian cooking, it's increasingly featured in dips, spreads, and salad dressings, offering a healthier and tangier alternative to mayonnaise or cream cheese. Its ability to hold shape makes it excellent for preparing vegetarian kebabs or patties, where it acts as a binder. Furthermore, it's a popular choice for light, refreshing snacks, often seasoned with herbs and spices or simply enjoyed plain with fruits.

The benefits of incorporating hung curd into one's diet are numerous. Like regular yogurt, it's an excellent source of probiotics, which are beneficial bacteria that support gut health and aid digestion. The straining process concentrates the protein content, making it a more satiating option for those looking to manage weight or build muscle. It's also rich in calcium, essential for strong bones and teeth, and contains various B vitamins, contributing to overall well-being.

Moreover, because much of the lactose is removed with the whey during the straining process, chakka dahi is often better tolerated by individuals with mild lactose sensitivity compared to regular yogurt. Its lower water content also means a longer shelf life, making it a convenient ingredient to keep on hand. For health-conscious individuals, it provides a versatile and nutritious base for both sweet and savory preparations, contributing to a balanced diet.

Whether used in traditional Indian sweets, as a creamy base for savory dishes, or as a healthy addition to modern recipes, hung curd or chakka dahi continues to be a beloved and beneficial component of the Indian diet. Its rich texture, tangy flavor, and impressive nutritional profile make it an indispensable ingredient in Indian kitchens.

How to select hung curd, chakka dahi

• Depending on your choice select either a full fat or low fat fresh curd to make your home made version of hung curd. This method by far is most healthy than the over-the-counter choices.

6 Uses of hung curd, chakka dahi

1. Due to its creamy texture, hung curd is used to make desserts like Shrikhand and Bhappa Doi. Both of these desserts are super creamy in texture, not lumpy at all and can be made with different flavors like fruit flavors, elaichi and kesar, etc.

2. Hung Curd is made by hanging the curd in a muslin cloth to get rid of the excess liquid called whey. This liquid can be saved and used to make soft rotis and parathas.

3. Hung Curd is used to make really soft kebabs as well, which are famously known as Dahi Ke Kebab.

4. Dips made with hung curd is a healthy alternate to other dips and sauces like mayonnaise and cheese dip. There are many variations that can be made, one of them being Creamy Coriander and Mint Dip

5. Creamy dressing for salads can also be made with hung curd. That provides a certain freshness and tanginess to salads.

6. Sour cream is a very important component in Mexican dishes. This sour cream is also made when hung curd and lemon juice are combined together. It is used in recipes like the 7 layered Mexican dip.

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