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Ghee Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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ghee

[ษกiห ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

clarified butter

Ghee is a type of clarified butter that originated in ancient India. It is made by simmering butter, which separates the milk solids and water from the fat, resulting in a rich and nutty flavor. Ghee is commonly used in Indian cuisine for frying, sautรฉing, and as a flavor enhancer.

Synonyms

butter oil, clarified butter, drawn butter.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
ghee

Commonly used in Indian and South Asian cuisine, ghee is a type of clarified butter that has a rich, nutty flavor. It's suitable for high-heat cooking and is also used in traditional Ayurvedic practices.

  • I make my curries with ghee for an authentic taste.
  • Ghee is often used in Ayurvedic remedies.
clarified butter

General term for butter that has had its milk solids and water removed, leaving pure butterfat. Suitable for higher temperature cooking without burning.

  • Clarified butter is perfect for searing meats in a hot pan.
  • She used clarified butter to make the sauce smoother and richer.
butter oil

Refers to the concentrated form of butter fat, with water and non-fat milk solids removed. It's used in food production and baking where a pure fat form is desired.

  • Butter oil is added to the recipe to enhance the flavor and richness.
  • Use butter oil for a smooth texture in your baked goods.
drawn butter

Often used in Western cuisine, particularly for serving as a dipping sauce with seafood like lobster, drawn butter is melted butter with the milk solids removed.

  • Serve the lobster with drawn butter for dipping.
  • Drawn butter adds a luxurious touch to seafood dishes.

Examples of usage

  • Ghee is commonly used in traditional Indian dishes such as curry and dal.
  • The rich aroma of ghee adds depth to the flavor of the dish.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Historical Origins

  • Ghee has been used in Indian cooking for thousands of years, and it's considered a staple in various regional cuisines.
  • In ancient India, it was often used in religious rituals and as an offering in temples.
  • The word 'ghee' comes from the Sanskrit word 'ghrita,' which means 'to sprinkle' or 'to pour.'

Culinary Uses

  • It's excellent for frying because it has a high smoke point, meaning it doesnโ€™t burn easily like regular butter.
  • Ghee is often added to dishes for extra flavor, especially in curries, rice, and lentil soups.
  • People also use it in baking as a healthier alternative to traditional butter.

Health Benefits

  • Ghee is rich in vitamins A, D, E, and K, which are beneficial for heart and bone health.
  • Lactose-intolerant individuals can usually consume ghee since the milk solids are removed during its preparation.
  • It's believed to aid digestion and improve gut health when consumed in moderation.

Cultural Significance

  • In Ayurveda, ghee is often regarded as a sacred food that promotes longevity and spiritual clarity.
  • It's common in Indian cuisine to use ghee during festivals and special occasions, making it a part of cultural traditions.
  • In vegetarian diets, it serves as a key source of healthy fats and energy.

Pop Culture

  • Ghee has gained popularity in Western cooking and health trends, often linked to the paleo diet and other health-focused lifestyles.
  • Various chefs and food bloggers showcase ghee as a trendy cooking fat, bringing traditional recipes to modern audiences.
  • Cookbooks focused on Indian cuisine frequently highlight ghee's versatility and aromas, making it a star ingredient.

Origin of 'ghee'

The word 'ghee' has its origins in Sanskrit, where it is known as 'ghแน›ta'. Ghee has been used in Indian cooking for centuries and is considered a sacred and essential ingredient in many traditional dishes. It is believed to have originated in ancient India and has since spread to various cuisines around the world.

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #24,530, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.