Ghee – The Amazing Ayurvedic Oil
Ghee, a version of clarified butter, is a healthy oil that is also known as a restorative food in Ayurveda that has been used for thousands of years! The main difference in making Ghee opposed to clarified butter is that ghee is simmered longer at a lower temperature which brings out the nutty flavor and has a higher smoke point.
Ghee is rich in nutrients and if made with grass fed butter, high in anti-inflammatory Omega 3 oil plus butyric acid (good for gut health, supporting healthy insulin levels) and conjugated linoleic acid (CLA) which has several health benefits including reduced inflammation, preventing cancer formation, lowering blood pressure and increased fat loss.
Rich in fat soluble vitamins A,E and K, important for healthy skin and vision and as it has had it’s whey removed, tolerated by lactose intolerant folks.
Ways to USE Ghee
Ghee can be used anywhere you would use oils or butter in cooking, with the added benefit of having all of these health features!
Ghee is considered the Jewel in the crown of Ayurvedic healing, not only being easy to digest but penetrates the body tissues providing nourishment to deep tissue layers of the body. Having a Vata constitution or being in the Vata stage of life will benefit from Ghee internally and externally. You can use it as a beauty treatment on the skin and herbs and spices tempered in ghee will be taken deep into the tissues where they are needed.
Ghee Recipe
½ lb. organic grass-fed butter – unsalted
Place the butter into a small pan and melt on medium heat, once melted, turn to low.
Once the butter begins to form a white foam on top, you’ll hear popping sounds as the moisture begins to evaporate.
Keep close by, monitoring the sounds as they become less and keep a close eye on it! When the solids on the bottom turn golden brown, remove from the heat allowing the ghee to cool for about 15 minutes.
Now strain the solids from the ghee into a clean jar, through a fine sieve or cheesecloth. Store covered on the counter for up to a month or in the fridge for up to 6 months. Always use a clean utensil when dispensing the ghee as not to introduce any bacteria.
Enjoy!