The unsung superhero yoghurt

 

We take this humble probiotic concoction for granted but it is actually a super healthy protein source for vegetarians and has a lot of other health benefits also. Its role as an immunity booster too is pivotal. Foodism shares with you the multiple benefits of yogurt along with a couple of lip-smacking recipes.

 

Yogurt, a popular dairy product prepared by bacterial fermentation of milk, is extremely popular in India and is considered to be a favourite of Lord Krishna too.

 

Benefits of Yogurt

 

Good for bones

Daily consumption of yogurt contributes to the body's calcium intake. This helps in preventing illnesses like osteoporosis, especially in the elderly. 100 grams of homemade yogurt contains 110mg of calcium. This covers 10% of the daily requirement of an average adult. 

Minimizes allergy symptoms

Yoghurt contains probiotics that help in strengthening gut immunity. This means that you fall sick less often because the good bacteria in the yoghurt makes your gut stronger and better. 

Serves as the perfect pre or post-workout snack 

Yoghurt makes for an amazing pre-workout snack and helps with the body's protein intake. A cup of yoghurt (100g) contains about 10g of protein, making it one of the best vegetarian sources of protein there are.

Prevents yeast infections 

Yoghurt contains a pool of good bacteria that helps fight yeast infections by restoring healthy yeast content in the vagina. This is great news for women as infections like Candida can be very uncomfortable! 

Mitigates the risk of high blood pressure

A mere two servings a week of fresh yoghurt in your daily food consumption can not only lower the risk of heart disease but can also help regulate fluctuating blood pressure problems. Yoghurt has cooling qualities that help, both men and women, stay away from heart diseases. 

Boosts energy levels 

Yoghurt contains lactose and glucose, which are simple sugars. These go in the blood and begin to fuel our bodies with ready-to-use energy. Yoghurt makes for a great snack to have on-the-go!

Preparations from Yogurt 

Some yoghurt-based delicious preparations besides a plethora of Dips, Kebabs, Salads and Raitas include – Lassi (sweet or salty); Buttermilk; Tadka Dahi; Curry; Dahiwada; Veggies like Dahiwala Karela, Dum Aloo et al 

 

Here's sharing the recipe of two popular yoghurt dishes:

 

SHRIKHAND

 

INGREDIENTS 

Curd 1 1/2 Cup 

Sugar (Powdered) 

1/4 Cup Cardamom Powder 

1/2 Teaspoon 

 

METHOD 

• Keep the curd in a strainer lined with a thin cloth and leave it for about an hour to let the extra water drain off 

• Transfer the strained curd into a mixing bowl and add the sugar and half of the cardamom powder; mix well, till smooth 

• Transfer to a serving bowl and garnish with the rest of the cardamom powder 

• Place it in the refrigerator for at least two hours and then serve.

 

Have a look at recipe here : https://foodism.xyz/recipes/shrikhand-1

THE INDIAN RAITA 

 

INGREDIENTS 

Cucumber (shredded) 1 

Salt 1 Teaspoon 

Yogurt 2 Cups 

Red Onion (chopped) 1/2 Cup 

Cilantro (chopped) 1/4 

Lemon Juice 1/4 Teaspoon

 Cumin (grounded) 1/4 Teaspoon 

Black Pepper (grounded) 1/8 Teaspoon 

Nutmeg, Cinnamon and Cardamom (grounded)

 

METHOD 

• Keep the cucumber in a strainer and sprinkle salt; then toss it well and let it drain for 30 minutes 

• Rinse the cucumber with cold water, drain it and then place it on and cover it with a paper towel 

• Let this stand for five minutes while continuing to pressing it down 

• Mix this cucumber with the yogurt and the remaining ingredients 

• Your Raita is ready to be served

 

Have a look at recipe here : https://foodism.xyz/recipes/indian-raita