Ghee—a staple in many kitchens around the world, particularly in Guyanese and Indian cuisine. Ghee, also known as clarified butter, is a versatile ingredient that adds a rich, nutty flavor to dishes and has numerous health benefits. Let’s explore how to make ghee at home and why it’s such a beloved ingredient.
What is Ghee?
Ghee is a type of clarified butter that has been simmered and strained to remove all water and milk solids, leaving behind pure butterfat. This process not only gives ghee its distinct taste but also increases its shelf life and makes it suitable for high-heat cooking.
While Ghee and clarified butter are made by clarifying butter, ghee is cooked longer until its milk solids brown, giving it a distinctive nutty taste. This sets it apart from traditional clarified butter used in Western cooking.
The Benefits and Nutrients of Ghee
Ghee is fantastic for your colon because it’s loaded with butyrate (or butyric acid). It has the highest concentration of butyrate compared to any other food, even regular butter. This is super important if you have conditions like colitis or IBS, as it helps heal and maintain your colon health.
But that’s not all. Ghee also helps increase bile production, which aids in digesting fats and absorbing key nutrients. It can improve insulin resistance, thereby normalizing your blood sugar levels. Plus, it’s great for reducing inflammation and boosting your energy levels.
Loaded with healthy fats like Omega-3 and Omega-9, MCTs, and fat-soluble vitamins (A, D, E, and K), ghee is also rich in CLA, which is great for athletes and anyone looking to maintain a healthy weight and build lean muscle mass.
How to Make Ghee from Butter
Learning how to make ghee from butter is simple and rewarding. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
Ghee
Equipment
- Medium Pan
- Fine Mesh Strainer
Ingredients
- Unsalted butter preferably organic and grass-fed
Instructions
- Melt the Butter: Place the butter in a heavy-bottomed pan and melt it over medium heat.
- Simmer: Once melted, reduce the heat to low and let the butter simmer. You’ll notice the butter will start to separate into three layers: foam on top, clear golden liquid in the middle, and milk solids at the bottom.
- Skim the Foam: Skim off the foam that forms on the surface using a spoon.
- Cook Until Golden: Continue to simmer until the milk solids at the bottom turn a light brown and the liquid becomes a clear golden color. This should take about 20-30 minutes.
- Strain: Remove the pan from the heat and let it cool slightly. Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth or a fine-mesh strainer into a clean, dry jar.
- Store: Let the ghee cool to room temperature, then seal the jar with a lid. Ghee can be stored at room temperature for up to three months or in the refrigerator for up to a year.
Why Make Ghee at Home?
Making ghee at home ensures you get a high-quality product free from additives and preservatives. Plus, it’s a cost-effective alternative to store-bought ghee.
How to Cook with Ghee
Ghee’s high smoke point makes it ideal for frying, sautéing, and roasting. Here are some ways to use ghee in your cooking:
Our Ghee Recommendations
Now that you know how to make ghee at home, why not give it a try? It’s a fantastic way to add depth and flavor to your cooking while enjoying the health benefits of this ancient superfood.
If you prefer to try ghee before making it yourself, here are three top-notch ghee brands that deliver exceptional quality and flavor:
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Ancient Organics Ghee
Made from 100% organic, grass-fed butter, Ancient Organics Ghee is slow-cooked to perfection. It has a delightful aroma and a creamy texture, making it perfect for all your cooking needs.
Flavor Profile: Rich, nutty, and slightly caramelized
Fourth & Heart Ghee
Fourth & Heart offers a variety of flavors, including original, vanilla bean, and Himalayan pink salt. This grass-fed ghee is excellent for spreading on toast, adding to coffee, or using in your favorite recipes.
Flavor Profile: Smooth, buttery with a hint of sweetness
Pure Indian Foods Organic Ghee
Sourced from pasture-raised, grass-fed cows, Pure Indian Foods Ghee is crafted using traditional methods. It’s perfect for those who want an authentic taste of India in their cooking.
Flavor Profile: Traditional, rich, and earthy
