Ghee vs butter: What is healthier?

Ghee and butter are popular fats, but have you wondered if one is healthier than the other? Know all about their nutritional content and how to choose between ghee vs butter for your health.

Ghee is clarified butter. It is made by cooking butter to remove water and milk solids. This results in a nutty-flavoured, lactose-free and versatile cooking fat.

What is ghee?

Butter is a dairy product made by churning cream or milk. It is a solid fat that is rich in flavour and may be used for cooking and baking, as well as topically on toasts and parathas!

What is butter?

Ghee is rich in fat-soluble vitamins A, D, E, and K. It is also high in healthy fats and antioxidants. Butter has high saturated fat content, but also has vitamins A, D, E and K2. While 1 tbsp of ghee contains 130 calories, 1 tbsp of butter packs about 100 calories.

Nutritional Content

Ghee has a high smoke point of around 485°F (252°C), making it ideal for high-temperature cooking. Whereas butter has a lower smoke point of about 350°F (177°C), which can lead to burning at high cooking temperatures.

Smoke Point

Ghee is lactose-free, making it a suitable option for people with lactose intolerance or dairy allergies. Butter, made of milk, contains small amounts of lactose, which may cause issues for those with lactose intolerance.

Lactose Intolerance

Ghee has a rich, nutty flavour that enhances the taste of dishes, especially in traditional Indian cuisines. Butter provides a creamy, smooth texture and a slightly sweet flavour, perfect for baking and spreading on toast.

Flavour

Ghee is versatile, ideal for frying, sautéing, and even as a spread. Butter can be great for baking and adds richness to sauces and dishes. Due to its smoke point, it best used at lower cooking temperatures.

Cooking Versatility

Choose ghee for high-heat cooking and if lactose intolerant. Opt for butter for baking and lower-heat cooking needs!

Choosing between ghee and butter