The virtues of ghee are aplenty. High in omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, vitamin packed and more, this healthy fat is making a comeback not just in India but also globally. So, while we love ghee in our tadkas and mithais, we thought of 7 unexpected and delicious ways you can cook with it. Try these out.
Add to beveragesAdding ghee to your morning cup of tea or coffee is an excellent way to introduce ‘fat-first’ into your system. Just add a teaspoonful instead of sugar and milk and blend. You’ll get a deliciously smooth concoction to kickstart brain function and metabolism while keeping you energized. You can also add it to a glass of milk before bedtime to reduce joint pain and get a good night’s rest. Flavour it upFlavoured butters taste delicious with several dishes. Since ghee is stable, spreads easily at room temperature and solidifies to look like butter it’s a great substitute. Adding flavours like garlic and lemon zest or basil and coriander on steamed fish or on toast will have your tastebuds singing. A baking replacementIf your recipe calls for oil or butter, simply replace it with melted ghee in the same ratio. This hack works beautifully for gluten-free baking of cookies, cakes, breads, bagels, buns, galettes and several other desserts. The result is a slightly nutty tasting, moist, fluffy and delicious treat. Make a marinadeSubstituting cooking oils or butters with ghee is easy to do. So why not substitute the oils for this liquid gold in marinades too? Use the same amount of melted ghee as you would another cooking fat. One of our favourite and most simple marinades for succulent chicken uses ghee with lime juice, garlic, salt, pepper and coriander. Use in chocolate spreadsWe all love chocolate and when it comes in a melted gooey texture, we are going to want to binge. A healthier alternative is to make your own healthy chocolate spread with nuts and seeds for a bit of crunch and ghee instead of oil. The flavours will shine. Simplify mayonnaiseHomemade mayonnaise doesn’t have to be cumbersome! Vigorously whisk an egg with a teaspoon of lime juice and salt. Slowly drizzle in ¾ cup of melted ghee and keep whisking till you see the mixture emulsify into creamy, fluffy mayonnaise! A dash in global dishesDon’t be afraid to use ghee when you’re cooking up a storm of international dishes at home. As chefs worldwide embrace its nutty and creamy flavour, try it in a garlicky pasta by substituting olive oil or make hollandaise sauce with ghee to enjoy an indulgent breakfast. 
