Uses of Ghee in Indian Cooking: Traditional Uses, Benefits & Tips

Looking at some of its many uses and a few ways to optimize your Ghee usage 

For thousands of years, ghee has been a fundamental part of Indian cuisine and Ayurvedic medicine has found it indispensable. Seen as a sacred food, it has been used to heal and nourish from the times of the Vedas. Its capabilities in aiding digestive powers, improving vitality and balancing the three doshas makes it invaluable. Some often refer to it as ‘liquid gold’.

Its unique flavour and nutty aroma lends a richness in whatever it is added to. Many dishes turn into an elevated culinary experience thanks to its caramel-like taste. Another important benefit is its ability to withstand high heat and its combination with Indian spices is complementary which in turn helps create an enhanced tasty meal.

For a better understanding of which ghee works better, read: A2 Ghee vs Regular Ghee

Common Uses of Ghee in Indian Food

What makes a good meal for many national households? Indian cooking with ghee

Ghee contributes to not only the taste of Indian food, but celebrations of special events and festivals too.

1. Tadka – The undeniable touch of Ghee

‘Tadka’ the words evokes a strong scene of Jeera, Methi Dana, Curry Leaves, Lal Mirchi (Sukha). The smells and the taste of a good tadka has to be experienced to be believed. A whole lot of vegetables, lentils (dals) and curd-based dishes or side-dishes find its spice-absorption properties enlivening the dining experience for one and all.

2. The next level in famous Indian curries and Vegetables

Think of oils while cooking in high heat, you realize smoke and breaking down are inevitable. Ghee for cooking however has a high smoke point (around 485°F/252°C) and therefore remains stable. Ghee does not stick, tastes perfect, and helps sauté all kinds of bases for curries.

3. What Indian Breads & Grains are incomplete without

From Biryanis to Puris, from Pulaos to Parathas, from Khichdi to Rotis, when Ghee touches any of these Indian foods, you are guaranteed a look, feel and taste which seems to be customized to a higher level of dining experience.

4. Like Mithai and Desserts? Possibly the reason is Ghee

Ghee recipes are comprehensive when it comes to sweets in the Indian context. Be it mouth-watering ladoos, the irresistible Mysore Pak or the oh-so-enticing Kesari Bath or even the full range of halwas (Moong Dal, Suji, Gajar), there is no better enhancement to the texture, the taste and the feel of the sweet like Ghee.

5. Yesterday’s favourite is equally loved in modern recipes - Baking & New Uses

Ghee for cooking is finding new uses in popcorn and vegetable sauteing among others making it liked and loved in equal measure in the new generation. Many have often used it as an alternative to butter in cookies, muffins and even cakes at times.

Reasons why Ghee is the go-to for Indian cooking

Ghee finds itself at top of the list for Indian chefs for multiple reasons:

• Only ghee can give that unique velvety texture and feel
• Looking to make puris or samosas? Ghee has a high smoke point
• If concerned with spies, the fat content becomes easily soluble 

Want a healthy diet? Eat Ghee

Why Ghee enjoys its place in the kitchen is obvious: 

 1. Healthy fats help eating in a balanced manner 

 2. Butyric acid aids easy digestion

 3. Lactose-friendliness is an obvious benefit

 4. Fat metabolism and energy production may also result thanks to Ghee consumption

Read our post to know more about the nutritional benefits: 10 Proven Health Benefits of A2 Ghee

How Much Ghee Should You Consume Daily?

Even good things need balance. Ghee consumption is no different. You can have it daily but be mindful of how much suits you.

• 5-10 grams should be enough if you are an adult with reasonably good health
• In a meal, you should not have more than 2 teaspoons
• Digestion may improve if you take 1 teaspoon with warm milk first thing in the morning
• Be aware it may add calories at times

Small kids, old people or others with health concerns should take a professional’s advice before consumption,

Which is the apt choice of Ghee

Here are a few reasons which can help you choose:

- When the texture is grainy, it is made with churning with traditional Bilona

 - Do check if it has adulterants, additives or some such.

 - If it is from an A2 milk source of Desi cows, it is easier to digest

 - The colour of A2 Ghee is richer

We have compared A2 and regular Ghee. Check our guide linked above.

Some quick facts about Ghee at a glance

Ghee can be used instead of oil and lends a richer flavor with the added advantage of a higher smoke point.

Ghee is often used for deep-frying pakoras, pooris, or samosas (without smoking).

Ghee is a healthier alternative to butter according to Ayurveda.

Ghee is perfect for those with sensitive digestion

Conclusion — Ghee makes better sense especially in Indian cooking

There is no question that Ghee, and particularly, A2 Ghee helps you manage a good balance when it comes to taste and health. We offer pure, grass-fed, A2 cow ghee as a dependable healthier choice.

Shop Now: https://www.econut.store/collections/a2-ghee

Econut A2 Ghee. Add it to your kitchen today!