Ghee, a pop in of clarified butter, is used widely across South Asia.

But what exactly is it?

And what can it be used for?

a photo of a jar of ghee with a wooden spoon scooping out some

Photo: Getty Images

In recent years, it has become more widely used in the West as an oil for high-heat cooking.

What Is Ghee?

However, it’s not exactly the same as French clarified butter.

What Does Ghee Taste Like?

Ghee has a slightly nutty, almost caramel-like flavor.

It has a lighter but grainier mouthfeel than butter.

How Is Ghee Different from Butter?

Can I Buy Ghee?

Ghee can be purchased from wholesale retailers, in largegrocery storesand online.

Swad brand ghee is available at Walmart for about $12 for 16 fluid ounces.

How Do I Make Ghee?

When the ghee is cool to the touch, strain the clear liquid through a cheesecloth into a jar.

Once the ghee has cooled completely, cover the jar tightly.

Homemade ghee can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 months.

How Do I Use Ghee?

Ghee is brushed on hot flatbreads, like roti andnaan.

It’s stirred into rice andlentildishes and drizzled over saag orbharta.

It’s also an integral ingredient indesserts.

Ghee can be a tasty swap for butter or vegetable oil in many recipes.

Cook eggs orpancakesin ghee, or smear it on a slice of sourdough or a bagel.

Use it to saute vegetables and seafood, or to deep-fry fritters.

Stir it into oatmeal or brush it over grilled meats.

Are There Substitutes for Ghee?

Butter is the ideal replacement for ghee, since butter is used to make ghee.

It’s casein- and lactose-free, making it suitable for those with lactose intolerance.

Billions of people have been enjoying ghee for millenniajoin the party.