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What is the difference between shrikhand and Greek yogurt?

Quick answer

Greek yogurt is plain strained yogurt, eaten as is, tangy and unsweetened. Shrikhand is a traditional Indian dessert made by straining yogurt even further, then mixing in sugar, saffron and cardamom. So shrikhand starts from a similar base but is a sweetened dessert, not the same thing.

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In this article
  1. Are shrikhand and Greek yogurt the same?
  2. How is shrikhand made?
  3. Can you use Greek yogurt to make shrikhand?
  4. Which one has more sugar?
  5. Can you use shrikhand instead of Greek yogurt?

Are shrikhand and Greek yogurt the same?

No. Both begin with yogurt that has had whey drained off, but they end up as different foods. Greek yogurt is sold plain or flavored as an everyday yogurt. Shrikhand is a dessert, sweetened and flavored on purpose.

Greek yogurt Shrikhand
Base Strained yogurt Yogurt hung in cloth to drain the whey
Sweet? Plain is unsweetened and tangy Sweetened with sugar
Flavor Plain, or fruit and vanilla versions Saffron and cardamom; mango, rose and nuts are common
How it is eaten Breakfast, dips, sauces, baking Dessert
Origin Strained yogurt India

How is shrikhand made?

Yogurt is hung in cheesecloth for several hours to drain the whey. The thick yogurt is then whisked with sugar, saffron and cardamom until smooth and creamy, and chilled for a few hours. Almonds or pistachios are often added as a garnish.

Can you use Greek yogurt to make shrikhand?

Yes, many home cooks do, because it saves the draining time. Whisk plain Greek yogurt with sugar, a pinch of saffron soaked in warm milk, and ground cardamom, then chill. The result is close to shrikhand, though the texture can differ slightly from a long-drained one.

Which one has more sugar?

Shrikhand, because sugar is part of the recipe. Plain Greek yogurt has no added sugar, but flavored Greek yogurt may. Check the Nutrition Facts label on your brand, since amounts vary by brand and recipe.

Can you use shrikhand instead of Greek yogurt?

Not in savory dishes or dips; it is already sweet and flavored. Use plain Greek yogurt there.

People also ask

Is shrikhand the same as Greek yogurt?

No. Greek yogurt is plain strained yogurt; shrikhand is strained yogurt sweetened with sugar and flavored with saffron and cardamom.

What is the difference between yogurt and shrikhand?

Shrikhand is yogurt drained of whey, then sweetened and flavored as a dessert. Regular yogurt is thinner and usually unsweetened.

Can I make shrikhand with Greek yogurt?

Yes. Mix plain Greek yogurt with sugar, saffron and cardamom and chill it.

General information only, not medical advice. If you have a health condition or are pregnant, ask your doctor before changing what you drink.
Written by Drinks Type Editorial Team · Published Feb 10, 2026 · Updated Nov 5, 2026
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