Substitutes for ghee in cooking include unsalted butter, vegetable shortening, mustard oil, sesame oil, clarified butter, coconut oil, olive oil, and vegan margarine, each offering a unique flavor and suitable for specific dishes and dietary preferences.
Unsalted butter can replace ghee in a 1:1 ratio in baking. It provides moisture and a rich flavor but has a lower smoke point. It's suitable for recipes where ghee is not a dominant flavor. Land O'Lakes and Kerrygold are well-known brands.
Vegetable shortening can be used in a 1:1 ratio for a similar texture in baking. It's a vegan option that contributes to flakiness in pastries. Expect a different flavor profile. Crisco is a commonly used brand.
Mustard oil can be used for its high smoke point in Indian cooking, particularly in curries and dal. Use it sparingly due to its strong flavor. A ratio of 1:1 can be used, but start with less and adjust to taste. Brands like Dabur are commonly used.
Sesame oil, especially the light variety, can substitute ghee in a 1:1 ratio for sautéing and in Indian dishes. It adds a nutty flavor, similar to ghee. Kadoya and La Tourangelle are popular brands.
Clarified butter can be used in a 1:1 ratio as it is essentially ghee without being cooked as long. It works well for high-heat cooking and adds a similar rich flavor. Keep in mind it may contain some milk solids. Land O'Lakes and Plugrá are popular brands.
Coconut oil is a vegan substitute with a high smoke point, suitable for high-heat cooking. Use it in a 1:1 ratio. It adds a coconut flavor to dishes, which may be desirable in some recipes. Brands like Nutiva and Viva Naturals are commonly used.
Extra virgin olive oil can be used in a 1:1 ratio as a substitute in Middle Eastern dishes. It has a lower smoke point but adds a fruity flavor. Brands like Bertolli and Colavita are widely available.
Clarified butter is suitable for Middle Eastern recipes in a 1:1 ratio. It has a similar flavor and high smoke point, though it may contain some milk solids. Land O'Lakes and Plugrá are popular brands.
Coconut oil is a great vegan and dairy-free substitute for ghee in a 1:1 ratio. It adds a coconut flavor and works well in baked goods and dairy-free dishes. Nutiva and Viva Naturals are recommended brands.
Vegan margarine can replace ghee in vegan baking and cooking. Use in a 1:1 ratio. It mimics the texture of ghee and is suitable for spreading and baking. Earth Balance and Miyoko's Creamery offer popular options.
| Recipe Category | Substitutes |
|---|---|
| Baking | Unsalted Butter, Vegetable Shortening |
| Indian Cooking | Mustard Oil, Sesame Oil |
| High-Heat Cooking | Clarified Butter, Coconut Oil |
| Middle Eastern Cooking | Olive Oil, Clarified Butter |
| Vegan and Dairy-Free Recipes | Coconut Oil, Vegan Margarine |
While ghee offers unique flavors and high-heat cooking properties, the substitutes provided can cater to various dietary needs and preferences without compromising the essence of the dish. Be mindful of the flavor and smoke point differences when choosing the best substitute for your recipe.
