Looking for the best Alternatives for Ghee? Whether you’re out of ghee or need a dairy-free swap, this guide covers tasty, healthy options you can use in any recipe.
Suddenly, you’re in the middle of making something delicious, the kitchen smells amazing, and then—hold up—the recipe calls for ghee. You do a quick pantry check… and nope, no ghee in sight. Maybe you’ve never used it before, maybe you ran out, or maybe you’re just not a fan. Whatever the reason, don’t stress—there are plenty of simple, tasty swaps that can come to the rescue.
Whether you’re looking for a dairy-free option, trying out a new diet, or just working with what you’ve got at home, there’s an alternative for ghee that’ll fit the bill. From rich, buttery stand-ins to plant-based picks that still bring the flavour, this list will help you keep your recipe on track without missing a beat.
THE BEST ALTERNATIVES FOR GHEE (THAT YOU PROBABLY ALREADY HAVE!)
1. BUTTER
Why it works: Butter is the most obvious substitute since ghee is clarified butter. It has a similar rich, creamy flavour, though it contains milk solids and water, unlike ghee.
How to use it: Use a 1:1 ratio when replacing ghee with butter. Ideal for low to medium heat cooking, baking, and spreading.
Best for: Baking, sautéing, or when the recipe doesn’t require ghee’s high smoke point.
2. COCONUT OIL
Why it works: Similarly, coconut oil mimics the texture of ghee and brings a subtle sweetness. It’s dairy-free, vegan, and has a relatively high smoke point.
How to use it: Use a 1:1 ratio. Best used in curries, stir-fries, and baked goods. Refined coconut oil has a more neutral taste, while unrefined (virgin) has a coconut aroma.
Best for: Vegan and paleo cooking, Indian dishes, and roasted veggies.
3. OLIVE OIL
Why it works: Olive oil is heart-healthy and widely available. While it lacks the nutty richness of ghee, it still adds depth and moisture.
How to use it: Use a little less than 1:1 if you’re worried about overpowering flavour. Great for salad dressings, light sautéing, and Mediterranean-style dishes.
Best for: Dressings, dips, low to medium heat cooking.
4. AVOCADO OIL
Why it works: Avocado oil has a neutral flavour and one of the highest smoke points of any oil, making it a great fit for high-heat cooking like ghee.
How to use it: Swap in a 1:1 ratio. Use for frying, roasting, or grilling.
Best for: High-heat cooking, searing meats, and stir-fries.
5. SUNFLOWER OIL
Why it works: Sunflower oil is light, flavourless, and has a high smoke point. It’s great when you want the other ingredients to shine.
How to use it: Use in equal parts. Perfect for sautéing or deep-frying.
Best for: Neutral cooking oil needs, baking, and frying.
6. VEGETABLE OIL OR CANOLA OIL
Why it works: These are cheap, accessible, and have neutral flavours, but less nutrient-dense than other options.
How to use it: Substitute 1:1 in most recipes. Keep the heat medium to avoid degradation.
Best for: Everyday cooking, frying, or budget-friendly meals.
7. SESAME OIL (TOASTED OR UNTOASTED)
Why it works: Sesame oil adds a nutty depth, similar to ghee’s aromatic flavour, while toasted sesame oil is more intense and flavourful.
How to use it: Use sparingly—start with ½ the amount of ghee and taste as you go. Best used as a finishing oil or for light sautéing.
Best for: Asian-inspired dishes, stir-fries, or as a drizzle over cooked foods.
8. LARD OR TALLOW
Why it works: These traditional animal fats have high smoke points and a rich flavour similar to ghee, especially in savory dishes.
How to use it: Use a 1:1 ratio. Only use with recipes that can handle bold flavour.
Best for: Roasting, pan-frying, and keto or paleo cooking.
9. NUT BUTTERS (ALMOND, CASHEW, ETC.)
Why it works: While unconventional, nut butters can add richness and creaminess in specific contexts—especially in sauces or dressings.
How to use it: Use sparingly in sauces or drizzles. Not a good substitute for high-heat cooking.
Best for: Sauces, dips, dressings, or adding creaminess to curries.
At the end of the day, cooking is all about flexibility—and having a solid list of ghee alternatives in your back pocket makes life so much easier. Whether you’re swapping for dietary reasons, flavour preference, or simply because you’re out of ghee (been there), there’s always something that can step in. Some swaps add a little nuttiness, some keep it light and neutral, and others bring their own flair to the table. Therefore, it’s all about choosing the right one for your vibe.
So go ahead—mix it up, experiment, and find your new go-to. You might even discover you like one of these alternatives better than the original (no offense, ghee). And honestly, that’s the fun of it—making delicious food that works for you. So, go get cooking—your skillet (and taste buds) are waiting!
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