Vegan Yogurt in India: Top Brands, Homemade Recipes and Where to Find It!

In India, there is a subtle but conspicuous culinary uprising, and this time the development is dairy-free. Earlier, veganism was a peculiar way of living, but today it is growing at a steady rate owing to concerns about health, environmental issues, as well as animal rights.

Vegan Yogurt in India: An Introduction

Culturally, vegetarianism has always been present in India; however, it can be argued that veganism, which does not allow for any animal product inclusions—even milk, which is commonly a part of Indian diets—is more extreme. People today are more inclined towards consuming plant-based foods due to health concerns and also to reduce their carbon footprints. Within the parameters of the growth in the consumption of plant-based foods, the segment of vegan yogurt is among the fastest-growing. In the traditions of India, curd has been a staple food consumed by almost everyone. The vegan wave, however, has led to an explosion of coconut, soy, almond, and oat yogurts.

In a bid to cater to the local consumer base, brands are playing with Indian flavours like mango, saffron, and cardamom, among other features. Additionally, the rise of vegan yogurt is beneficial as it provides the lactose intolerant with an alternative, or even for those who wish to limit their dairy intake for moral purposes. And it is not just the products that play a role: the use of social media, the influence of health-oriented individuals, and the availability of online shops where such products can be purchased also contribute to this trend. Veganism has long ceased to be a way of life just for a narrow circle of devotees. Thanks to the younger generation, it has taken a more progressive stand, which has made it a global phenomenon. Under this new green, compassionate, and healthier eating, vegan yogurt is positioned as the dawn of the plant-based future, as it is ready on the nation’s tables. This article will take you through the best vegan yogurt brands available in India, offer some easy home-made recipes, and tell you where you can get your hands on vegan yogurt. This guide is useful no matter whether one has just discovered plant-based foods or is merely seeking to expand their cooking skills with something different.

The Top Vegan Yogurt Brands in India

Here are our top picks:

1. PlantGurt: mango and cashew yogurts
   
2. HandS: mango and ice apple coconut yogurts
3. One Good: peanut yogurts
   
4. Epigamia: unsweetened coconut yogurts

The Art of Homemade Vegan Yogurt:

Here are some of our favourite recipes:

1. Indulge in Smooth, Creamy Vegan Yogurt Made with Coconut Milk

Coconut milk is an excellent base for vegan yogurt due to its rich and creamy consistency. This one if for you if you like your yoghurt mild and tropical in flavour. This coconut yogurt pairs wonderfully with fresh fruits, granola or as a tangy dip for dishes like biryani or curry.

• 2 tins (400 ml each) of full-fat coconut milk
• 2 tablespoons of agar-agar powder
• 1 tablespoon maple syrup or agave (optional, for sweetness)
• 2 teaspoons probiotic powder or ¼ cup plain vegan yogurt as a starter 
• Optional: 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions:

1.  Warm the coconut milk in a saucepan over low-medium heat, stirring continuously. Avoid boiling.    
2. Mix the agar-agar powder with ¼ cup water and stir into the warmed coconut milk until fully incorporated.    
3. Let the mixture cool to around 40°C (room temperature), then stir in the probiotic powder, yogurt starter, and vanilla extract if using.    
4. Transfer to a sterilised glass jar or bowl, cover lightly with a clean cloth, and place in a warm area to ferment for 12-24 hours (longer for a tangier taste).
5.  Once fermented, refrigerate for 4-5 hours to set.

Making coconut cream yogurt gets easier each time you do it. It is wholesome and thick without being sour.

2. Cashew Milk Vegan Yogurt (Smooth & Velvety)

Cashew milk creates a rich, creamy yogurt. This one is for you if you love cream as it tastes naturally sweet. Cashew yoghurt is ideal for parfaits, smoothies, or enjoying with fresh fruit.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup raw cashews (soaked for 4-6 hours)
• 2 cups water (for blending)
  
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon agar-agar powder (for thickening)
• 2 teaspoons probiotic powder or 1 tablespoon plain vegan yogurt as the starter culture
  
• Optional: 1 tablespoon maple syrup or other sweetener

Instructions:

• Drain the soaked cashews and blend with 2 cups of water until smooth.
• Heat the cashew milk on low-medium heat, stirring continuously.
• Mix agar-agar with ¼ cup cold water and stir it into the cashew milk. Allow it to thicken slightly.
• Let the mixture cool to room temperature, then stir in lemon juice and the probiotic powder or yogurt starter.
• Transfer to a sterilised container, cover, and ferment in a warm place for 12-24 hours. (Note, the sharper you want the taste to be, the longer you should ferment it for.)
• Refrigerate until set for a creamy, delicious yogurt that complements breakfast bowls or spicy meals.

3. Almond Milk Vegan Yogurt (Light & Refreshing)

Another base for vegan yogurt that's very popular is almond milk. This one has a mild and nutty flavour. If you're looking for a yogurt that's slightly less creamy but still rich, then this is the one for you. It's a versatile option for sweet or savoury dishes.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup raw almonds (soaked overnight)
• 3 cups water (for blending)
• 1 tablespoon agar-agar powder (for thickening) 
• 2 teaspoons probiotic powder or ¼ cup plain vegan yogurt as a starter
• Optional: 1 tablespoon maple syrup or agave, 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions:

1. Blend soaked almonds with 3 cups of water, then strain using a nut milk bag or cheesecloth to remove the pulp.
2. Heat the almond milk on medium heat, stirring frequently.
3. Dissolve the agar-agar in ¼ cup water and stir it into the almond milk. Allow to thicken slightly, then remove from heat.
4.  Cool to room temperature, then add the probiotic powder, vanilla extract, and sweetener if using.
5. Pour into a sterilised container, cover, and ferment in a warm place for 12-24 hours.
6. Refrigerate to set. This light, refreshing yogurt is perfect for parfaits or as a topping for fresh fruit.

Wrap Up: The Rise of Vegan Yoghurt

India’s shift toward vegan yogurt marks a transformation in ethical dietary habits, reflecting growing awareness of health, environmental, and ethical concerns. According to the World Animal Foundation, 11% of Indians identify as vegan. Brands like PlantGurt, HandS, Epigamia and One Good are meeting the demand with innovative flavours such as mango and saffron cardamom, tailored to Indian tastes. The market for plant-based foods, including vegan yogurt, is growing rapidly. As noted by Pristine Market Insights, increased consumer awareness of dairy’s health and environmental impacts is driving this expansion of the plant-based food sector and along with it the vegan yogurt market. This isn’t just a trend—it’s a shift towards healthier, more sustainable living.

What about you, have you ever tired vegan yogurt in India? Feel free to share any tips & advice below! P.S.: If you're interested in an app designed for vegans and wanna support the vegan movement and us, VeganVsTravel as well, use this link plz to download Abillion. When registering, please use our referral code: TRAVELLINGWEASELS. If you wanna know why we think this is a great app, read here.