Best Ghee Substitutes

Ghee is a type of clarified butter that is popular in South Asian cuisine. It is made by simmering butter to remove the milk solids and water, leaving behind a clear golden oil with a rich, nutty flavor.

Ghee has a higher smoke point than regular butter, making it ideal for frying and sautéing. It is also used in baked goods and as a topping for rice and vegetables.

In some religious and cultural traditions, ghee is considered sacred and used in rituals and offerings.

How to substitute Ghee in most cooking recipes

Ghee can be substituted with clarified butter or oils with a high smoke point, such as coconut oil or peanut oil, in cooking and baking. However, it’s important to note that ghee has a distinct flavor and aroma that cannot be replicated by other substitutes.

SubstituteDescriptionConversionExample
ButterA dairy product made from milk or cream, commonly used in cooking and baking.1:11 cup ghee = 1 cup butter
Clarified ButterButter that has been simmered to remove the milk solids and water, leaving behind a clear golden oil.1:11 cup ghee = 1 cup clarified butter
Vegetable OilA neutral-flavored oil made from plants, commonly used for frying and sautéing.1:11 cup ghee = 1 cup vegetable oil
Olive OilAn oil made from pressed olives, commonly used in Mediterranean cuisine.1:11 cup ghee = 1 cup olive oil
Sesame OilAn oil made from pressed sesame seeds, commonly used in Asian cuisine.1:11 cup ghee = 1 cup sesame oil
Sunflower OilAn oil made from pressed sunflower seeds, commonly used in cooking and baking.1:11 cup ghee = 1 cup sunflower oil
Rapeseed OilAn oil made from pressed rapeseed, commonly used in Europe.1:11 cup ghee = 1 cup rapeseed oil
Soybean OilAn oil made from pressed soybeans, commonly used in cooking and baking.1:11 cup ghee = 1 cup soybean oil
Canola OilAn oil made from pressed canola seeds, commonly used in cooking and baking.1:11 cup ghee = 1 cup canola oil
Coconut OilAn oil made from pressed coconuts, commonly used in cooking and baking, particularly in vegan and paleo diets.1:11 cup ghee = 1 cup coconut oil