Authentic Homemade Dahi (Indian Yogurt) Recipe

Ingredients

4 cups of fresh, full-fat milk
2 tablespoons of existing dahi (plain yogurt)

Steps and instructions

Start by boiling the milk in a large pot. Keep the flame on medium and stir occasionally to prevent the milk from sticking to the bottom of the pot.
Once the milk comes to a boil, turn the flame to low and allow it to simmer for about 2 minutes. Stir frequently.
Turn off the flame and allow the milk to cool. The ideal temperature for the milk is lukewarm - you should be able to hold your finger in the milk for about 10 seconds comfortably.
Take 2 tablespoons of the existing dahi or plain yogurt and add it to the lukewarm milk. Stir well until the dahi is well combined with the milk.
Close the pot with a lid and wrap it in a warm cloth. This helps to maintain the warmth, which is essential for the curdling process.
Leave the pot undisturbed in a warm place for about 6-8 hours or overnight. The duration might vary depending on the climate. The warmer the climate, the quicker the dahi will set.
After this time, the milk should be completely curdled and set into dahi. Refrigerate it for a few hours before serving. Your homemade dahi is ready to enjoy.

Tools for making

Large pot - to boil the milk and allow for stirring
Stirring spoon - to stir the milk while boiling and simmering
Lid - to cover the pot while the dahi is setting
Warm cloth - to wrap around the pot and maintain warmth during the curdling process
Refrigerator - to chill the dahi before serving

Recipe variations

Adding sugar or honey to the milk before boiling to make sweet dahi
Using flavored yogurt as a starter for a different flavor profile
Adding fruits like mango, strawberry, or blueberries for a fruity twist
Infusing the milk with cardamom, saffron, or rose water for aromatic dahi
Using coconut milk instead of regular milk for a dairy-free option
Experimenting with different types of milk like almond milk or soy milk
Adding nuts like almonds, pistachios, or cashews for a crunchy texture
Mixing in spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, or ginger for a spiced dahi

Recipe overview

Dahi, also known as plain yogurt, is a staple in many Indian households. It's used in various dishes, and is also enjoyed on its own due to its refreshing taste and numerous health benefits. This recipe will guide you through making homemade dahi using just two simple ingredients - milk and a small amount of existing dahi. Though the process is time-consuming, it's straightforward and worth the wait. All you need to do is heat the milk, mix in the dahi, and let it sit to curdle. The result is delicious, creamy, and fresh dahi that you can enjoy with your meals or use in your favorite recipes.

Common questions

How long does it take for the dahi to set? 6-8 hours or overnight, depending on the climate.
Can I use low-fat or skim milk? It is best to use full-fat milk for richer and creamier dahi.
Can I use any brand of plain yogurt as a starter? Yes, you can use any plain yogurt as long as it contains live active cultures.
What should be the temperature of the milk before adding the starter? The milk should be lukewarm, around 100-110°F (38-43°C).
Can I set the dahi in the refrigerator instead of a warm place? No, the dahi needs a warm environment to set properly. Refrigeration should be done after the dahi has set.
How can I make the dahi thicker? You can strain the dahi through a muslin cloth or cheesecloth for a few hours to remove excess whey and make it thicker.
How long can I store homemade dahi? Homemade dahi can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a week.
Can I use this homemade dahi as a starter for the next batch? Yes, you can use a small portion of the homemade dahi as a starter for the next batch.

Serving dishes and utensils

Mixing Bowl - A large bowl to combine the milk and dahi.
Pot - A large pot to boil the milk.
Stirring Spoon - A spoon to stir the milk while boiling and the dahi while combining.
Lid - A lid to cover the pot while the dahi is setting.
Cloth - A warm cloth to wrap around the pot and maintain the warmth.
Refrigerator - To store the dahi after it is set and chilled.

Origin stories

Dahi, also known as curd or yogurt, holds a significant place in Indian cuisine and culture. Every household in India has its own unique way of making dahi, passed down through generations. It's not just seen as a culinary ingredient, but also has a sacred status in many Indian rituals. In fact, no auspicious work is initiated in India without a symbolic act of consuming a spoonful of dahi for good luck. The natural process of curdling milk to make dahi is a science that has been mastered over thousands of years in Indian homes. The practice of making dahi at home is so prevalent that the first meal a new bride cooks upon entering her new home is often dahi, symbolizing the start of her nurturing role in the family. It's truly one of the wonders of Indian tradition, capturing the essence of its rich heritage and deep-rooted beliefs.

Disclaimer: This recipe was not created by humans and we cannot ensure that it will turn out as expected. We do not guarantee or take any liability for the accuracy of this recipe (including steps, ingredients, nutritional information, and all sections on this page). You should check to make sure you are not allergic to any ingredients and take safety precautions while making this. The images on this page are generated by AI and may not accurately represent the result of making this recipe.