Ghee, or Clarified Butter, is a super nutritious “power food” with a long history in India. In fact, it’s golden, buttery goodness was first documented in Ayurvedic texts thousands of years ago and plays a very important role in Vedic/Hindu rituals. Traditionally, ghee is used for many reasons including to light diva and invite agni (fire) to our homes when we begin prayers/poojas and in the preparation of satvic foods such as the holy offering, panchamrut.

Aside from its ritual use, Ayurvedic and modern science agree that ghee has many health benefits. Unlike other fats, it primarily consists of short chain fatty acids. It aids in digestion and is lactose-free, casein-free, gluten-free and meat-free. Ghee is also full of vitamins, especially vitamin A.

But, most importantly, with its nutty, buttery flavor, ghee is delicious!! Every home-cook should have ghee in their pantry. It is inexpensive, easy to make, and once made, it lasts months to years without refrigeration (as long as you keep it in an air tight container. I use an old Ovaltine glass jar). While it is used at the start of many South Asian recipes, ghee can be used as the cooking oil for nearly any type of food. It also has a high smoke point, so you don’t run the risk of burning your oil at higher temperatures.