Easy Homemade Clarified Butter Recipe 3 Steps for Perfect Ghee
This easy homemade clarified butter recipe, also known as ghee, is a simple 3-step process that yields a rich, nutty, and pure butterfat perfect for cooking and adding authentic flavor to dishes.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: About 1 1/2 cups (12 tablespoons) 1x
- Category: Condiment
- Cuisine: Indian
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 pound (450 grams) unsalted butter
- Optional: pinch of turmeric or a few whole cardamom pods for spice infusion
Instructions
- Cut the butter into even cubes and transfer to a heavy-bottomed saucepan.
- Place the pan over low heat and melt the butter slowly, stirring occasionally until clear liquid forms with white foam on top (about 5-7 minutes).
- Keep the butter at a gentle simmer (around 200°F or 93°C) for 20-25 minutes until milk solids sink and foam gathers on top; skim off foam as it builds.
- Check for a golden amber color and nutty aroma; lower heat if browning too fast or smelling burnt.
- Remove from heat and let cool for a few minutes; strain through a fine mesh strainer lined with cheesecloth into a clean jar.
- Let the ghee cool completely at room temperature before sealing and storing.
Notes
Keep heat low to avoid burning milk solids; patience during simmering is key. Milk solids left in the pan can be used for cooking or flavoring rice. Store in airtight container at room temperature up to 3 months or refrigerate for up to 6 months. Use fresh unsalted butter for best results. Optional spice infusions can add aromatic flavor.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 tablespoon (14 g)
- Calories: 120
- Fat: 14
- Saturated Fat: 9
Keywords: clarified butter, ghee, homemade ghee, clarified butter recipe, cooking fat, dairy-free butter alternative