Without a teaspoon of ghee on top of the paratha or in the dal katori, our dinner is incomplete. Furthermore, ghee, the golden elixir, is a good source of fat and butyric acid, making it extremely beneficial. While nothing can replace ghee, butter is frequently used as a substitute. As a result, butter and ghee are frequently interchanged. Is there, however, a distinction between ghee and butter? Is ghee a superior alternative than butter?
Dietician Roopshree Jaiswal, Consultant Dietician and Nutritionist, Motherhood Hospitals, Indore, explained the difference between ghee and butter to HealthShots.
Is There a Distinction To Be Made Between Ghee And Butter?
In Indian families, ghee and butter are frequently used as substitutes, but the issue remains: which is the healthier option? Many individuals use ghee in their cooking since it is a healthier fat than butter. So, what is ghee, exactly?
Ghee is simply clarified butter created by heating the liquid and milk solid portions of butter to separate them from the fat. It has not only been a staple of Indian cuisine for years, but it is also utilised for medicinal purposes in Ayurveda, which may explain why some believe it is the best option.
Ghee Is Nutrient-Dense
"When comparing butter with ghee, we can see that ghee has a larger fat and calorie content than butter. "It's also high in vital nutrients like vitamin A, omega-3 fatty acids, and conjugated linoleic acid, which may help lower gastrointestinal inflammation and improve heart health," Jaiswal added.
Because the nutritional value difference between the two is modest, it is not a compelling argument to pick one over the other.
"However, the fact that it does not include any milk sugar, lactose, or milk protein casein may persuade individuals to select ghee over butter," Jaiswal added. This makes it an excellent option for lactose intolerant or casein-sensitive individuals."
Furthermore, due of its high smoke point, consumers prefer ghee to butter. The temperature at which fats begin to create smoke is known as the smoke point. While ghee is preferable for high-heat cooking, butter is a superior choice for baking because of its sweeter flavour.
So, Between Ghee And Butter, Which Do You Prefer?
Both ghee and butter have benefits and drawbacks. Because all products are sourced from the same source and have similar nutritional values, it all comes down to your own preferences and needs. According to Jaiswal, neither product should be consumed in excess, but both may be enjoyed in moderation.
