Ghee, a golden treasure of the culinary world, is a versatile ingredient steeped in history and beloved for its rich flavor and health benefits.
This clarified butter is more than just a cooking fat—it’s an experience, a flavor enhancer, and a key to unforgettable dishes.
For Lykkers seeking to expand their culinary adventures, ghee deserves a prime spot in your kitchen.
A Brief History of Ghee
Dating back thousands of years, ghee has its origins in India, where it was traditionally made from cow’s milk. In ancient times, people sought to preserve butter in hot climates, and ghee became the perfect solution. Its ability to stay fresh without refrigeration made it essential for cooking and a staple in Ayurveda, the ancient Indian system of medicine. Ghee was not only valued for its long shelf life but also for its believed ability to nourish both body and mind.
Today, ghee transcends its Indian roots and has found a place in global kitchens. Its nutty, caramelized flavor is a favorite among chefs and home cooks alike, adding depth to a wide array of dishes.
How to Make Ghee | Chef Jean-Pierre
Video by Chef Jean-Pierre
Why Ghee?
For the health-conscious Lykkers, ghee offers an excellent alternative to regular butter and oil. It’s lactose-free, making it suitable for those with dairy sensitivities, and packed with fat-soluble vitamins such as A, D, E, and K. Rich in butyrate, a short-chain fatty acid, ghee also supports gut health, inflammation reduction, and digestion. Moreover, it has a high smoke point of about 485°F (250°C), making it perfect for frying, sautéing, or roasting without breaking down and releasing harmful compounds.
Cooking with Ghee: Recipes to Try
The versatility of ghee shines in both simple everyday meals and more elaborate culinary creations. Here are some ghee-infused dishes that will bring warmth and richness to your table:
Ghee Rice: Start with basmati rice, gently frying it in ghee along with whole spices like cardamom, cloves, and bay leaves. This results in fragrant, buttery rice that pairs beautifully with curry or grilled vegetables.
Golden Ghee Roasted Vegetables: Coat root vegetables—like sweet potatoes, carrots, and parsnips—with ghee, rosemary, and sea salt. Roast until they caramelize to perfection, resulting in a deeply flavorful, crispy, yet tender side dish.
Ghee-Infused Lentil Soup: Sauté garlic, onions, and cumin in ghee before adding red lentils, vegetable broth, and tomatoes. The ghee adds a subtle richness to the broth, elevating this comforting soup.
Ghee Pancakes: Replace regular butter with ghee for a twist on your morning pancakes. The ghee gives the pancakes a slightly nutty flavor, making them irresistibly fluffy and fragrant.
These recipes show how ghee can take center stage in any kitchen, transforming even the simplest ingredients into something special.
Ghee on the Go: Restaurant and Food Tours
For Lykkers craving a ghee-infused dining experience, some renowned restaurants around the world have embraced this golden fat, incorporating it into their menus in creative ways.
Junoon (New York City): A Michelin-starred Indian restaurant where ghee is masterfully used in signature dishes like tandoori meats and spiced rice. Meals here range from $40 to $90 per person, offering both tasting menus and à la carte options.
Dishoom (London): A popular spot where ghee is used in their decadent breakfast offerings, like Ghee-Roasted Masala Eggs. Dishes are reasonably priced at around $15 to $30.
Gaggan (Bangkok): Known for its modern Indian cuisine, this restaurant uses ghee as a luxurious base for its fusion dishes. Expect to spend about $150 per person for an unforgettable multi-course meal.
For Lykkers who prefer exploring the culinary scene firsthand, joining a food tour focused on Indian or Middle Eastern cuisine is a perfect way to sample a variety of ghee-rich dishes. In cities like Mumbai, Delhi, or even Dubai, there are food tours that take you through bustling spice markets and eateries where ghee reigns supreme. Prices for these tours range from $50 to $100 depending on the location and duration.
Tips for Buying and Storing Ghee
When purchasing ghee, opt for brands that use organic, grass-fed butter to ensure the highest quality and nutritional content. Ghee can be found in most grocery stores, typically in the international foods aisle or the dairy section.
Storage is simple—ghee can be kept at room temperature in an airtight container for up to a year. Unlike regular butter, ghee does not need refrigeration due to the absence of milk solids, making it a convenient staple for any Lykker’s kitchen.
Ghee: A New Staple in Your Culinary Arsenal
Incorporating ghee into your cooking is a game-changer. Whether drizzled over popcorn, mixed into morning oatmeal, or used as the star ingredient in elaborate dishes, its versatility and health benefits make it worth exploring. For Lykkers who love food that’s both flavorful and nourishing, ghee is the perfect addition to everyday meals and indulgent feasts alike.
So, next time you’re cooking, grab a jar of ghee and let it take your meal to the next level.
