Yuki Tanaka
Ghee is made by boiling butter then removing the residue. It is basically samin oil. The highest composition of ghee is fats. And, it is used in many kitchen recipes; mostly Indian cuisine. Below are the best ghee substitutes. They include; olive oil, sunflower oil, sesame oil, coconut oil, canola oil, soybean oil, and butter.
These are healthy oils and can be used as an alternative to the oils we employ in the kitchen. As people become more watchful of what they eat, it is necessary to consume healthy diets. Their oils are an indication towards that direction apart from being used as perfect alternatives for ghee.
1. Olive oil
Olive oil can be a great alternative, especially if you want to enhance the flavor of your meal. It is the right choice of cooking as it is for nutrition. It is one of the safest oils if you watch your weight and calorie intake.
2. Clarified butter
Well, ghee is essentially butter. This is why; whenever you fall short of ghee in the kitchen, you can always convert butter to play the role. Clarified butter is made by mixing butter with olive oil.
3. Coconut oil
Ghee is used to giving flavor to roasted dishes. In absentia, you can make do with coconut oil. Just like olive oil, coconut oil is clean and safe for consumption, even for those running away from gaining weight. However much it doesn’t give your dishes the distinctive taste as ghee, coconut oil gives it the coconut flavor. Well, you try and judge which one of the two is better.
4. Sunflower oil
Sunflower oil may be a little expensive due to extraction. It may also be pricy due to its nutritional value. Therefore, sunflower seed oil can be used in place of ghee. This is a good and healthy alternative – except for the costs.
5. Sesame oil
This oil, just like others, is an excellent alternative for ghee in cooking. On the other hand, Sesame oil can be used for various purposes, including frying food, sprinkling on grilled dishes, etc.
6. Canola oil
Canola oil can be used as an alternative to ghee and coconut oil. Usually, it is used in baking, frying, and sautéing veggies.
7. Soybean oil
Ghee is used to make mayonnaise. Soybean oil can also be used in place of ghee to give a distinctive taste and improve the value of the mayonnaise.
8. Butter
Add butter to your food in place of ghee while frying. You can then add some olive oil to prevent color change.
The bottom line
It is best to say that ghee is loved by a set of people more than others. However, this factor does not negate the fact that it is an excellent addition to food. This post gives you several options to choose from when you go low on ghee supply. You can use one of these healthy oils to minimize risks of accumulation of cholesterol.
Facts Summary Table
| Substitute | Flavor Profile | Smoke Point | Texture | Best Used In | Source |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Olive Oil | Fruity, grassy, sometimes peppery | 325-375°F (165-190°C) | Liquid | Salad dressings, sautéing, drizzling | Pressed from olives |
| Clarified Butter | Mild, buttery | 450-485°F (232-251°C) | Liquid when warm, solid when cool | High-heat cooking, frying, baking | Butter with milk solids removed |
| Coconut Oil | Mild coconut aroma, slightly sweet | 350°F (177°C) | Solid at room temperature, liquid when warmed | Baking, frying, Asian dishes | Extracted from coconut meat |
| Sunflower Oil | Mild and neutral | 440°F (227°C) | Liquid | Frying, baking, sautéing | Pressed from sunflower seeds |
| Sesame Oil | Strong, nutty, toasted flavor | 350-410°F (177-210°C) | Liquid | Stir-fries, marinades, dressings | Extracted from sesame seeds |
| Canola Oil | Neutral, mild | 400°F (204°C) | Liquid | Frying, baking, general cooking | Pressed from canola seeds |
| Soybean Oil | Neutral, mild | 450°F (232°C) | Liquid | Frying, baking, general cooking | Extracted from soybeans |
| Butter | Rich, creamy, slightly nutty | 350-375°F (177-190°C) | Solid at room temperature | Baking, sautéing, flavoring | Milk fat |
FAQs
Can you replace ghee with butter?
Yes, you can replace ghee with butter in many recipes. However, remember that ghee has a slightly different flavor and a higher smoke point, so the dish’s final taste and cooking characteristics might vary.
Does ghee taste anything like butter?
Ghee has a similar buttery taste, but it’s often described as having a nuttier and richer flavor due to how it’s clarified. Some people also notice a subtle caramelized note in ghee.
How much ghee equals a stick of butter?
One stick of butter typically equals about 1/2 cup or 8 tablespoons. You would use the same amount, about 8 tablespoons of ghee to replace it with ghee.
Is ghee healthier than butter?
Ghee is often considered a healthier option than regular butter for certain purposes. It’s clarified butter, which means the milk solids have been removed, reducing lactose and casein. Ghee also has a higher smoke point, making it suitable for high-heat cooking. However, ghee and butter are calorie-dense and should be consumed in moderation. Consulting with a healthcare professional or nutritionist for personalized advice is a good idea.
Conclusion
In conclusion, many different substitutes for ghee can be used in cooking. The best substitute for ghee will depend on the specific dish you are making and your personal preferences. When choosing a substitute for ghee, it is important to consider the substitute’s smoke point, flavor, and texture. With some experimentation, you will surely find the perfect substitute for ghee for your next culinary adventure!
