Difference Between Curd And Buttermilk?

Difference Between Curd and Buttermilk: Curd and buttermilk are two popular dairy products widely used in Indian households, but many people get confused between the two. The main difference between curd and buttermilk is their texture and preparation. Curd is thick and creamy, while buttermilk is thin, watery, and refreshing. Let’s understand both in detail.

What Is Curd?

Curd is a fermented dairy product made by adding curd culture or an acidic substance to warm milk. It turns thick, creamy, and slightly tangy in taste. Curd is rich in calcium, protein, and probiotics that improve digestion and strengthen bones. It is eaten directly, used in raita, kadhi, lassi, or added to gravies for thickness.

What Is Buttermilk?

Buttermilk is a thin, watery dairy drink obtained after churning curd or diluting curd with water. Traditionally, buttermilk was the leftover liquid after butter was separated from cream. In India, it is often prepared with spices like cumin, ginger, curry leaves, and salt to make it a refreshing digestive drink.

Difference Between Curd and Buttermilk

The main difference between curd and buttermilk lies in consistency and preparation. Curd is thick and eaten as food, while buttermilk is light and consumed as a drink. Curd has more fat content, whereas buttermilk is low in fat and easy to digest. Curd is used in cooking recipes, while buttermilk is mostly used for hydration and cooling in summer.

Health Benefits of Curd

Curd is rich in probiotics that improve gut health and digestion. It is a great source of calcium and protein, which helps in strengthening bones and teeth. Eating curd daily can also boost immunity and reduce acidity.

Health Benefits of Buttermilk

Buttermilk is a natural coolant and digestive drink. It is low in fat and calories, making it suitable for weight loss. Drinking buttermilk after meals helps prevent acidity, improves metabolism, and keeps the body hydrated during hot weather.

Curd or Buttermilk?

Both curd and buttermilk have their own benefits. If you are looking for more nutrition and thickness in your diet, curd is a better option. If you want a light, refreshing, and easily digestible drink, buttermilk is the right choice. Including both in your diet can balance health and digestion.

Uses of Curd and Buttermilk in Daily Life

Curd is used in making lassi, dahi bhalla, kadhi, marination for kebabs, and cooling side dishes. Buttermilk is consumed as a summer drink, a digestive remedy, and in recipes like mor kuzhambu (South Indian buttermilk curry). Both have traditional importance in Indian cuisine.

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