What Makes Greek Yogurt Special?
In India, Greek yogurt is often known as hung curd — a thick, protein-rich dairy product that has been part of our traditional kitchens for generations.
But what makes it so special, and why is it becoming increasingly popular in modern households?
Let’s explore the reasons why a Greek Yogurt Strainer or hung curd maker has become an essential tool for health-conscious families.
What Is Greek Yogurt (Hung Curd)?
Greek yogurt is essentially yogurt that has been strained to remove excess whey (the watery part).
The result is a thick, creamy texture packed with proteins and low in sugar.
In Indian households, hung curd is made the same way — fresh curd (dahi) is strained using a curd strainer or yogurt filter strainer to obtain this rich consistency.
Compared to regular yogurt, Greek yogurt, or hung curd is:
- More concentrated in protein
- Creamier in texture
- Less watery, making it perfect for multiple uses
Why Is It So Popular?
- ✅ High Protein Content
Greek yogurt and hung curd are packed with protein, which helps build muscles, keeps you full longer, and supports overall health. - ✅ Versatile Usage
Whether you’re making healthy snacks, smoothies, desserts, or traditional Indian dishes like raita or shrikhand, hung curd offers a flexible base. - ✅ Preservative-Free
Making Greek yogurt at home with a hung curd maker ensures there are no preservatives or additives — just pure, natural goodness. - ✅ Gut-Friendly Probiotics
Rich in live cultures, it promotes good digestion and boosts immunity.
How Is It Made at Home?
A yogurt strainer container or a multifunctional yogurt filter with fine mesh strainer makes the process effortless:
- Pour fresh curd or store-bought yogurt into the strainer.
- Let it sit in the fridge overnight (or for a few hours, depending on desired thickness).
- The whey drains into the outer container, leaving thick Greek yogurt or hung curd behind.
👉 Pro Tip: The collected whey is a protein-rich ingredient you can use in smoothies, bread dough, or curries.
Creative Ways to Use Greek Yogurt & Hung Curd
- Breakfasts: Greek yogurt parfaits with fruits, nuts, and seeds
- Snacks: Tzatziki, cucumber dip, or hung curd sandwiches
- Mains: Paneer Tikka Marinade, creamy curries
- Desserts: Amrakhand (mango-flavored shrikhand), yogurt-based puddings
- Smoothies: Blend strained yogurt with fruits for a probiotic drink
Why Use a Zivanca Greek Yogurt Strainer?
Using a hung curd strainer box like Zivanca’s makes the process cleaner, faster, and more reliable than traditional methods:
- No muslin cloth needed — hygienic and reusable
- BPA-free, food-grade materials for safety
- Compact and fridge-friendly design
- Efficient whey separation every time