How to use leftover curd in cooking beyond raita and kadhi?

Question

Explore creative ways to use leftover curd in Indian meals and snacks.

Answer 1

Leftover curd can be used in marinades to tenderize meat, in baking to add moisture and tang, or as a base for creamy sauces and dips. It's a versatile ingredient that can enhance flavor and texture in various dishes.

Detailed Explanation:

Leftover curd, often called sour cream or yogurt depending on its consistency, is a fantastic ingredient to incorporate into your cooking beyond the usual raita and kadhi. Here's how:

1. Marinades: The lactic acid in curd acts as a natural tenderizer for meat and poultry. Marinate chicken, lamb, or even tofu in a mixture of curd, spices, ginger-garlic paste, and lemon juice for at least 30 minutes (or overnight for best results) before grilling, baking, or pan-frying. The curd will help break down the proteins, resulting in a more tender and flavorful dish.
2. Baking: Substitute curd for buttermilk or sour cream in your baking recipes. It adds moisture and a subtle tang to cakes, muffins, pancakes, and even bread. Use it in equal proportions to the ingredient you are replacing. For example, if a recipe calls for 1 cup of buttermilk, use 1 cup of curd. This will result in a softer and more flavorful baked good.
3. Sauces and Dips: Curd can be used as a base for creamy sauces and dips. Blend it with herbs, spices, garlic, and lemon juice to create a refreshing dip for vegetables or chips. You can also use it to thicken sauces for pasta or vegetables, adding a tangy and creamy element. Be careful not to boil curd directly, as it can curdle. Add it at the end of cooking and gently heat through.
4. Smoothies: Add a spoonful or two of curd to your smoothies for a boost of protein and probiotics. It will also add a creamy texture and a slight tang that complements fruits and vegetables.
5. Gravies: Curd can be used to enrich gravies, especially in Indian cuisine. Whisk it smoothly and add it towards the end of the cooking process to prevent curdling. It adds a creamy texture and a slightly tangy flavor that enhances the overall taste of the gravy.

Pro Tip:

To prevent curdling when using curd in hot dishes, whisk it thoroughly until smooth and temper it by gradually adding a small amount of the hot liquid from the dish to the curd before incorporating it fully. This helps to equalize the temperature and prevent the curd from separating.