Indian cuisine is celebrated for its bold flavors, aromatic spices, and rich textures—and ghee is at the heart of many traditional dishes. This golden clarified butter not only enhances taste but also adds depth and creaminess to curries, rice dishes, and breads.
Here are some delicious recipes to try with ghee that bring the authentic flavors of India right into your kitchen.
Ghee Rice
A fragrant and flavorful staple, ghee rice is often served at weddings and festive occasions.
How to make it:
Rinse 1 cup of basmati rice and soak in cold water for 20 minutes.
Heat 2 tablespoons of ghee in a pan and add 1 cinnamon stick, 2 cloves, and 2 cardamom pods.
Sauté 1 sliced onion until golden brown.
Drain the rice, add it to the pan, and coat it with the ghee and spices.
Pour in 2 cups of water, season with salt, and bring to a boil.
Reduce heat, cover, and simmer 15–20 minutes until rice is tender.
Fluff with a fork, garnish with chopped cilantro, and serve warm.
Ghee Chicken Curry
Ghee chicken curry is rich, savory, and perfect with rice or naan.
How to make it:
Heat 2 tablespoons of ghee in a pan. Sauté 1 sliced onion, 1 tablespoon grated ginger, and 3 minced garlic cloves until soft.
Add 1 teaspoon each of cumin, coriander, and turmeric. Stir to combine.
Add 1 pound of boneless chicken thighs and coat with the spice mix.
Pour in 1 can diced tomatoes, 1 cup water, and salt to taste.
Bring to a boil, reduce heat, cover, and simmer 20–25 minutes until chicken is cooked.
Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve alongside ghee rice.
Ghee Naan Bread
Soft, buttery naan bread is perfect for soaking up curry sauces.
How to make it:
Mix 2 cups all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon salt, 1 teaspoon sugar, and 1 teaspoon instant yeast in a bowl.
Add ¾ cup warm water and 2 tablespoons ghee to form a dough.
Knead for 5–10 minutes until smooth. Cover and let rise 1–2 hours.
Preheat a skillet over medium-high heat. Divide dough into 8–10 pieces, roll into circles, brush with ghee, and cook 2–3 minutes per side until golden.
Serve hot with curry or dal.
Why Ghee is Essential in Indian Cooking
Ghee is a versatile, flavorful, and nutrient-rich fat that enhances almost any dish. From rich rice dishes and aromatic curries to soft breads and decadent desserts, it brings authenticity, tradition, and taste to your meals. By keeping ghee in your kitchen, you can effortlessly explore the rich flavors of Indian cuisine.
