Buttermilk Substitute for Dahi (Indian Yogurt/Curd): Exact Ratio
Looking for a dahi (indian yogurt/curd) substitute? Buttermilk works as a direct replacement. Use 1 cup buttermilk per 1 cup dahi (liquid recipes only) in any recipe that calls for dahi (indian yogurt/curd). This swap works best for kadhi, chaas, marinades.
Best Substitute
Buttermilk
1 cup buttermilk per 1 cup dahi (liquid recipes only)
For kadhi and drink-based recipes only. Too thin for raita or as a side dish. Provides the right tang.
Tips When Replacing Dahi (Indian Yogurt/Curd) in Recipes
To make dahi at home, heat milk to 180F, cool to 110F, stir in 1 tablespoon of existing yogurt as starter, and keep warm (oven with light on) for 6-8 hours. Indian dahi is always unflavored and unsweetened.
What Is Dahi (Indian Yogurt/Curd) and Why Substitute It?
Homemade set yogurt (curd) that is a staple in Indian cuisine. Thinner and tangier than Greek yogurt, used in raita, kadhi, marinades, and as a cooling side dish. Essential for tandoori marinades.
Buttermilk is one of 5 alternatives you can use instead of dahi (indian yogurt/curd). For a complete list of dahi (indian yogurt/curd) substitutes with ratios and cooking tips, visit the full dahi (indian yogurt/curd) substitute page.
What Else Can I Use Instead of Dahi (Indian Yogurt/Curd)?
Plain Yogurt (regular, not Greek) instead of Dahi (Indian Yogurt/Curd)
View substitute ratio →
Greek Yogurt + Water instead of Dahi (Indian Yogurt/Curd)
View substitute ratio →
Coconut Yogurt instead of Dahi (Indian Yogurt/Curd)
View substitute ratio →
Sour Cream (thinned) instead of Dahi (Indian Yogurt/Curd)
View substitute ratio →
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use buttermilk instead of dahi (indian yogurt/curd)?
Yes, you can use buttermilk as a substitute for dahi (indian yogurt/curd). Use 1 cup buttermilk per 1 cup dahi (liquid recipes only). For kadhi and drink-based recipes only. Too thin for raita or as a side dish. Provides the right tang.
How much buttermilk equals dahi (indian yogurt/curd)?
Use 1 cup buttermilk per 1 cup dahi (liquid recipes only) to replace dahi (indian yogurt/curd) with buttermilk. Works best for kadhi, chaas, marinades.
What is the best substitute for dahi (indian yogurt/curd)?
Buttermilk is a popular substitute for dahi (indian yogurt/curd). Use 1 cup buttermilk per 1 cup dahi (liquid recipes only) for a 1-to-1 replacement. See all 5 alternatives on our dahi (indian yogurt/curd) substitute page.