Western Indian Recipes

Make Dahi without Dahi Jaman | Yogurt without Yogurt culture | Prepare Curd Without Jaman by Rajashri Saxena

Make Dahi without Dahi Jaman | Yogurt without Yogurt culture | Prepare Curd Without Jaman by Rajashri Saxena

How to Prepare Curd Without Using Curd (Dahi Without Jaman) – 2 Simple Methods

Are you looking for a way to prepare curd at home without using curd as a starter? We’ve got you covered with two easy and effective methods! Learn how to make homemade dahi without jaman and enjoy fresh, creamy curd anytime.

Method 1: Using Red Chillies

  1. Take two whole dried red chillies with the stalks attached.
  2. Place the chillies in a bowl and pour lukewarm milk over them, ensuring the stalks are fully submerged.
  3. Let the mixture sit undisturbed overnight in a warm place.
  4. By morning, the milk will have set. This first batch is meant to be used as a starter (jaman) to set fresh curd, not to be eaten.

Method 2: Using Almonds to Preserve the Starter

  1. Take a few almonds and dip them in curd (prepared from the first method or previously set curd).
  2. Store the almonds in the refrigerator.
  3. Use this almond-curd mixture as a starter to set fresh curd for up to 15 days.

Why Make Curd at Home?

Homemade curd is free from preservatives and easy to prepare with these traditional methods. Whether you’re out of store-bought curd or looking for a natural process, these methods are perfect for you.

Tips for Best Results

  • Boil the milk, let it cool until lukewarm, and only then add the starter. Very hot milk kills the bacteria that set the curd.
  • Keep the mixture in a warm spot for faster and consistent results.

Enjoy the Benefits of Homemade Curd

Curd is a versatile dairy product that enhances the taste and nutrition of your meals. Use it in recipes like raita, lassi, or as a cooling side dish with spicy curries.

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10 FAQs for Preparing Curd Without Using Curd (Dahi Without Jaman)

  1. Can I make curd without using a starter (jaman)?

    Yes, the red chilli stalk method lets you set curd for the first time without any starter. The almond method is only for preserving a starter, so it needs some curd to begin with.

Why do red chillies help in setting curd?

The stalks of red chillies contain natural bacteria that aid in fermenting milk into curd.

  • What type of milk is best for setting curd using these methods?

    Whole milk or full-fat milk is ideal as it yields creamy and thick curd. Boil it and let it cool to lukewarm before adding the starter.

  • How long does it take for the curd to set with red chillies?

    It usually takes 8–12 hours for the curd to set, depending on the room temperature.

  • Which red chillies should I use for this method?

    Use whole dried red chillies with the stalks intact, as the stalk is what starts the fermentation.

  • How does the almond method work for setting curd?

    Almonds dipped in existing curd retain beneficial bacteria, which can be used to set fresh curd for up to 15 days.

  • What is the ideal temperature for curd to set properly?

    A warm temperature of around 30–40°C (86–104°F) is ideal for curd formation.

  • Can I use the almond-curd mixture directly to make more curd?

    Yes, simply mix the almond-curd mixture with lukewarm milk to set fresh curd.

  • How can I store the almond-curd starter for future use?

    Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 15 days.

  • Is homemade curd made using these methods safe to eat?

    This is a traditional home method. Use clean utensils and clean hands, and discard the curd if you notice a foul smell, unusual colour or mould.