What is the process of making ghee? - #10454

Ah, making ghee at home! You’re in for a treat. It’s really a simple but rewarding task if you haven’t tried it before. So, let’s dive right in!

First things first, cow butter is often preferred in Ayurveda due to it’s sattvic qualities and the balance it brings amongst the doshas. It’s lighter and is believed to be more digestible compared to buffalo butter. However, if you’re used to the richer taste of buffalo butter, you can definitely use that too! The quality of butter impacts both the taste and nutrition, so try to get unsalted, organic butter if possible—it makes a noticeable difference.

Now, as you melt the butter, you’ll notice it bubbling and making these small crackling sounds (that’s the water content evaporating and the milk solids separating), and then, it starts to get this lovely, nutty aroma… that’s the magic right there. When the trend moves from a frothy white top to clear golden hue, it’s a good indication that the ghee is done.

But watch closely—if it goes too dark, it’s been heated too long. The milk solids will sink to the bottom, forming brown bits called ‘burnt solids,’ which you’d strain out. Those bits can actually be added to dishes as an extra flavor boost although maybe not the healthiest. Nutrient-wise, homemade ghee retains a majority of the benefits since the process is gentle and controlled, unlike commercial high-temperature methods.

About the cultured butter, using it can give a slight tang to your ghee and adds a bit of extra flavor complexity—worth a shot if you’re feeling experimental! Traditional methods often involve starting with curd (yogurt) and then churning it into butter, making it quite a bit of a labor of love.

Store the ghee in a clean glass jar at room temperature; it’s shelf-stable due to the lack of water and milk solids. It can last several months, but it’s so tasty it might not last that long. Common mistake? Don’t step away for too long; ghee can quickly burn if you’re not attentive.

And yes, besides cooking, ghee is truly versatile. In Ayurveda, it’s used for oleation therapies, and for skin and hair care, it’s deeply nourishing. It can even soothe dry patches or act as a natural conditioner. Start by just applying a small amount to see how your skin or hair likes it.

That’s it! Happy ghee-making and savor the process—it’s as delightful as the result.