Ghee is a type of clarified butter that has a long history of use in Indian and Middle Eastern cuisine. But what exactly is ghee, and why is it considered the healthiest cooking oil? Let’s take a closer look at this versatile and nourishing ingredient.
What is Ghee?
Ghee is made by simmering butter until the water and milk solids separate from the fat. The solids are then strained off, leaving behind a pure, golden oil that is rich in flavor and nutrients. Because the milk solids and water have been removed, ghee is lactose-free and casein-free, making it a suitable option for people who are lactose intolerant or have a sensitivity to milk proteins.
Why is Ghee the Healthiest Cooking Oil?
Ghee has a number of unique characteristics that make it a healthier choice for cooking than other oils:
- High smoke point: Ghee has a higher smoke point than most other oils, which means that it can be heated to a higher temperature before it starts to smoke and break down. This makes it a good choice for high-heat cooking methods such as frying and sautéing, as it is less likely to produce harmful compounds when heated to these temperatures.
- Easy to digest: Ghee is easy to digest and absorbed by the body, making it a nourishing and strengthening food. It is believed to lubricate and nourish the tissues, promote strength and vitality, and support healthy digestion.
- Calming and grounding: In Ayurveda, ghee is believed to have a calming and grounding effect on the mind and emotions. Some practitioners recommend using ghee in cooking as a way to balance the doshas and support overall health and well-being.
How to Use Ghee?
According to Ayurveda, ghee can be used in a number of ways to support overall health and well-being. Here are a few suggestions for using ghee as part of an Ayurvedic diet and lifestyle:
- Cook with ghee: Ghee is a great oil for cooking due to its high smoke point and rich, nutty flavor. It is particularly well-suited for high-heat cooking methods such as frying and sautéing.
- Use ghee as a spread or condiment: Ghee can be used as a spread or condiment in place of butter or other oils. It is delicious on toast, sandwiches, or as a topping for cooked vegetables.
- Add ghee to your diet in small amounts: Ghee is a highly nourishing food, and a little goes a long way. Start by adding a small amount of ghee to your diet and gradually increase as needed.
- Use ghee in Ayurvedic remedies: Ghee is often used in Ayurvedic remedies as a way to deliver the benefits of herbs and spices directly to the tissues. It is often used as a base for herbal oils, ghee-based remedies, and other Ayurvedic preparations.
Ghee may not be the best choice for everyone, as everyone’s nutritional needs are different. It is always a good idea to speak with a healthcare professional or a qualified Ayurvedic practitioner to determine the appropriate use of ghee for your individual needs and constitution. They can help you determine the right dosage and frequency of use, as well as any potential contraindications or precautions. However, for those who can tolerate it, ghee is a delicious and nourishing cooking oil that has a number of potential health benefits.
