20 Flavorful Ghee Recipes Deliciously Simple

Title: 20 Flavorful Ghee Recipes Deliciously Simple

When it comes to cooking, many of us have our go-to ingredients that bring out the best flavors in our dishes. But what if we told you there was a simple ingredient that could elevate your cooking game and add a depth of flavor to even the most mundane meals? Enter ghee, the golden elixir that’s been used for centuries in Indian cuisine.

Ghee is simply clarified butter – the milk solids have been removed leaving behind a rich, nutty oil that’s perfect for sautéing, roasting, or even just adding a hint of flavor to your favorite dishes. And when you combine it with the right ingredients, magic happens. From savory side dishes to sweet treats and everything in between, ghee is the ultimate kitchen hack. In this article, we’ll explore 20 deliciously simple recipes that showcase the versatility and flavor of ghee. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or just starting out, these recipes are sure to become new favorites.

Ghee-roasted garlic mashed potatoes

Elevate your mashed potato game with the rich flavors of ghee and roasted garlic. This recipe combines creamy potatoes with a deep, buttery flavor profile.

Ingredients:

– 3-4 large potatoes, peeled and chopped into 1-inch cubes
– 2 heads of garlic, separated into individual cloves
– 1/4 cup ghee (clarified butter)
– 1/2 cup heavy cream or whole milk
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: grated cheddar cheese for added flavor

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Toss potato cubes with 2 tablespoons of ghee, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 20-25 minutes, or until potatoes are tender.
3. Meanwhile, place garlic cloves on a separate baking sheet, drizzle with the remaining 2 tablespoons of ghee, and roast for 15-20 minutes, or until caramelized.
4. Remove potatoes from oven and mash with roasted garlic, heavy cream or milk, and salt to taste.
5. Serve hot, topped with grated cheddar cheese if desired.

Cooking Time: Approximately 45-50 minutes

Ghee-infused turmeric rice

Elevate your rice game with this simple yet flavorful recipe that combines the warmth of turmeric with the richness of ghee. Perfect as a side dish or paired with your favorite curries and stews.

Ingredients:

– 1 cup long-grain white rice
– 2 cups water
– 1/2 teaspoon ground turmeric
– 2 tablespoons ghee (clarified butter)
– Salt, to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Rinse the rice and soak it in water for at least 30 minutes.
2. Drain the water and cook the rice according to package instructions or until tender.
3. In a small saucepan, melt the ghee over low heat.
4. Add the turmeric and stir well to combine.
5. Once the rice is cooked, fluff it with a fork and mix in the turmeric-ghee mixture.
6. Season with salt to taste.
7. Garnish with cilantro leaves, if desired.

Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes (including soaking time)

Ghee-fried banana pancakes

Elevate your breakfast game with these sweet and crispy Ghee-fried Banana Pancakes, featuring the rich flavor of ghee and the natural sweetness of ripe bananas.

Ingredients:

– 2 large ripe bananas, mashed
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 tablespoons sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 large egg
– 2 tablespoons ghee, melted
– Butter or oil for greasing the pan

Instructions:

1. Preheat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat.
2. In a bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, salt, and baking powder.
3. Add mashed bananas, milk, egg, and melted ghee to the dry ingredients. Mix until smooth.
4. Grease the pan with butter or oil. Using 1/4 cup of batter per pancake, cook for 2-3 minutes or until bubbles form on surface.
5. Flip and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, until golden brown.

Cooking Time: Approximately 10-12 minutes (6-8 pancakes)

Ghee-sautéed green beans with almonds

Elevate your green beans game with this simple yet flavorful recipe that combines the nutty goodness of ghee and the crunch of almonds. Perfect as a side dish or added to a stir-fry, these tender green beans are sure to please!

Ingredients:

– 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed
– 2 tablespoons ghee (clarified butter)
– 1/4 cup sliced almonds
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: garlic powder, lemon zest, or red pepper flakes for added flavor

Instructions:

1. Heat the ghee in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the green beans and cook until tender, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Stir in the sliced almonds and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, until fragrant.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with additional almonds if desired.

Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes

Ghee-baked sweet potato fries

Elevate your snack game with this unique recipe that combines the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes with the rich, nutty flavor of ghee. The result is a crispy, flavorful treat that’s perfect for movie nights or as a side dish.

Ingredients:

– 2-3 large sweet potatoes
– 1/4 cup ghee (clarified butter)
– Salt, to taste
– Optional: your favorite seasonings (e.g., garlic powder, paprika)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cut sweet potatoes into fry shapes.
3. In a bowl, mix ghee and salt.
4. Add sweet potato fries to the ghee mixture and toss to coat evenly.
5. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and arrange fries in a single layer.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until crispy, flipping halfway through.
7. Remove from oven and season with your desired flavorings (if using).
8. Serve warm and enjoy!

Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes

Ghee-toasted granola with honey

Elevate your snack game with this simple recipe that combines the nutty flavor of ghee-toasted granola with the sweetness of honey. Perfect for a quick pick-me-up or as a topping for yogurt or oatmeal.

Ingredients:

– 2 cups rolled oats
– 1 cup mixed nuts (almonds, cashews, pecans)
– 1/4 cup ghee (clarified butter) or unsalted butter
– 2 tablespoons honey
– Pinch of salt

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C).
2. In a large bowl, mix together oats and nuts.
3. In a small saucepan, melt ghee over low heat. Stir in honey until well combined.
4. Pour the ghee-honey mixture over the oat mixture and stir until everything is coated evenly.
5. Spread the mixture on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden brown.
7. Remove from oven and sprinkle with salt. Let cool completely before breaking into chunks.

Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes

Ghee-roasted Brussels sprouts with balsamic glaze

Roasted Brussels Sprouts with a Twist: Ghee-Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Balsamic Glaze

Transform humble Brussels sprouts into a show-stopping side dish by combining the richness of ghee with the tanginess of balsamic glaze. This recipe is perfect for special occasions or everyday meals.

Ingredients:

– 1 pound Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
– 2 tablespoons ghee
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup balsamic glaze (or reduced balsamic vinegar)
– Optional: 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes for added heat

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss Brussels sprouts with ghee, olive oil, salt, and pepper until well coated.
3. Spread the sprouts in a single layer on a baking sheet.
4. Roast for 20-25 minutes, or until tender and caramelized.
5. Drizzle balsamic glaze over the roasted sprouts and toss to coat.
6. Serve hot, garnished with red pepper flakes if desired.

Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes

Ghee-seared scallops with lemon butter

Elevate your seafood game with this simple yet impressive recipe that combines the richness of ghee with the brightness of lemon. This dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.

Ingredients:

– 12 large scallops
– 2 tablespoons ghee
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 lemons, juiced (about 2 tablespoons)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat a skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Pat the scallops dry with paper towels. Season with salt and pepper.
3. Add ghee to the preheated skillet. Once melted, add the butter, garlic, and lemon juice. Stir until the butter is fully incorporated.
4. Sear the scallops for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and cooked through.
5. Serve immediately with a sprinkle of parsley, if desired.

Cooking Time: 6-8 minutes

Ghee-glazed carrots with thyme

This recipe adds a new dimension of flavor to the humble carrot, pairing its natural sweetness with the richness of ghee and the earthiness of thyme. Perfect as a side dish or added to salads, this simple yet elegant preparation is sure to impress.

Ingredients:

– 4 large carrots, peeled and chopped into 1-inch pieces
– 2 tablespoons ghee (clarified butter)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 sprigs fresh thyme, chopped
– Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together ghee, garlic, and thyme.
3. Add the carrot pieces and toss until evenly coated with the glaze.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Spread the carrots in a single layer on a baking sheet.
6. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender and caramelized.

Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes

Ghee-cooked quinoa pilaf

This flavorful quinoa pilaf is elevated by the rich, nutty taste of ghee, making it a perfect side dish for any meal. With its fluffy texture and aromatic spices, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.

Ingredients:

– 1 cup quinoa, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 1 tablespoon ghee
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt to taste

Instructions:

1. Rinse the quinoa in a fine-mesh strainer and drain well.
2. In a medium saucepan, bring the quinoa and water or broth to a boil. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the quinoa is tender and fluffy.
3. In a large skillet, melt the ghee over medium-high heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 2-3 minutes.
4. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, stirring constantly to prevent burning.
5. Stir in the cooked quinoa, cumin, and salt. Cook for 1-2 minutes or until heated through.

Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes

Ghee-fried eggs with avocado toast

Elevate your breakfast game with this creamy and flavorful combination of ghee-fried eggs and avocado toast. This recipe is quick, easy, and packed with nutrients to keep you going throughout the morning.

Ingredients:

– 2 large eggs
– 1/4 cup ghee (clarified butter)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 slices whole grain bread
– 1 ripe avocado, mashed
– Optional: red pepper flakes, chopped fresh herbs (e.g., parsley, chives) for garnish

Instructions:

1. Crack the eggs into a bowl and whisk lightly.
2. Heat the ghee in a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Pour in the eggs and cook until the whites are set and the yolks are cooked to your desired doneness (about 3-4 minutes).
3. Toast the bread slices until lightly browned.
4. Spread the mashed avocado on top of the toast.
5. Place the ghee-fried eggs on top of the avocado toast.
6. Season with salt, pepper, and any optional garnishes.

Cooking Time: Approximately 10-12 minutes

Ghee-roasted cauliflower with cumin

Elevate your snack game with this flavorful and aromatic recipe that combines the nutty goodness of ghee with the warm, earthy taste of cumin. This simple yet impressive side dish is perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients:

– 1 head of cauliflower, broken into florets
– 2 tablespoons ghee or clarified butter
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt, to taste
– Optional: lemon wedges and chopped fresh cilantro for garnish

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss the cauliflower florets with the ghee, cumin, and salt until well coated.
3. Spread the cauliflower mixture on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Roast in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until tender and caramelized, flipping halfway through.
5. Remove from the oven and garnish with lemon wedges and cilantro, if desired.

Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes

Ghee-sautéed spinach with garlic

Ghee-sautéed spinach with garlic is a simple yet elegant side dish that can elevate any meal. This recipe uses the rich flavor of ghee to bring out the natural sweetness of spinach, paired with the pungency of garlic.

Ingredients:

– 1 bunch fresh spinach leaves (about 4 cups)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons ghee or clarified butter
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Rinse the spinach leaves and pat them dry with a paper towel.
2. Heat the ghee in a large skillet over medium heat.
3. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute, until fragrant.
4. Add the spinach leaves and stir well to coat with the ghee-garlic mixture.
5. Cook for 2-3 minutes, or until the spinach has wilted to your liking.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot.

Cooking Time: Approximately 5-7 minutes

Ghee-baked salmon with dill

Elevate your salmon game with this simple yet impressive recipe that combines the richness of ghee with the brightness of fresh dill. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion, this dish is sure to please!

Ingredients:

– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup ghee
– 2 tbsp freshly chopped dill
– 2 lemons, sliced
– Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil.
3. Place the salmon fillets on the prepared baking sheet.
4. Drizzle ghee evenly over each fillet, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.
5. Sprinkle chopped dill and salt over the ghee.
6. Top each fillet with a lemon slice.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
8. Serve hot and enjoy!

Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes

Ghee-fried plantains with cinnamon

This recipe adds a delightful twist to the classic fried plantain by using ghee instead of butter, and adding warm cinnamon for added depth. The result is a sweet and crunchy snack that’s perfect for a quick treat or as a side dish.

Ingredients:

– 2 ripe plantains
– 1/4 cup ghee (clarified butter)
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– Salt to taste

Instructions:

1. Peel the plantains and slice them into 1-inch rounds.
2. Heat the ghee in a large skillet over medium-high heat until it starts to melt.
3. Add the plantain slices to the skillet in batches, being careful not to overcrowd.
4. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until the plantains are golden brown and crispy.
5. Sprinkle the cinnamon and salt to taste over the plantains.
6. Serve warm and enjoy!

Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes

Ghee-infused chai latte

Elevate your morning routine with this aromatic and creamy drink that combines the warmth of ghee with the spices of traditional chai. This recipe is perfect for a cozy winter morning or any time you need a pick-me-up.

Ingredients:

– 1 cup water
– 2 teaspoons loose-leaf black tea
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom
– 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
– 1 tablespoon ghee (clarified butter)
– 1/2 cup milk (dairy or non-dairy, as preferred)
– Honey or sugar (optional)

Instructions:

1. Bring the water to a boil and add the tea leaves, cinnamon, cardamom, and ginger. Let it simmer for 3-5 minutes.
2. Strain the tea mixture into a large mug.
3. Add the ghee and milk to the tea. Whisk until the ghee is fully incorporated and the drink is creamy.
4. Add honey or sugar to taste, if desired.

Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes

Ghee-roasted butternut squash soup

Roasting butternut squash with ghee and spices brings out its natural sweetness, perfect for a comforting fall soup.

Ingredients:

– 1 large butternut squash (about 2 lbs)
– 2 tbsp ghee
– 1 onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
– 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cut the squash in half lengthwise and scoop out seeds.
3. In a large bowl, mix together ghee, onion, garlic, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Add the squash halves and toss until they’re well coated.
4. Roast the squash for 45 minutes, or until tender and caramelized.
5. Scoop out the flesh and puree it in a blender with broth and heavy cream (if using).
6. Serve warm, garnished with chopped fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro.

Cooking Time: 1 hour 15 minutes

Ghee-cooked basmati rice with cardamom

This classic Indian recipe combines the nutty flavor of ghee with the sweet, aromatic taste of cardamom to elevate a simple bowl of basmati rice.

Ingredients:

– 1 cup basmati rice
– 2 cups water
– 2 tablespoons ghee (clarified butter)
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom
– Salt, to taste

Instructions:

1. Rinse the rice in a fine mesh sieve until the water runs clear. Drain and set aside.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine the rice and water. Bring to a boil over high heat.
3. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the water is absorbed and the rice is cooked.
4. While the rice cooks, warm the ghee in a small skillet over medium heat.
5. Add the ground cardamom to the ghee and stir-fry for 1 minute, until fragrant.
6. Once the rice is cooked, fluff with a fork and add the ghee-cardamom mixture. Season with salt to taste.

Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes

Ghee-sautéed mushrooms with rosemary

This recipe elevates the humble mushroom to new heights with the warm, aromatic flavors of ghee and rosemary. Perfect as a side dish or added to your favorite recipes.

Ingredients:

– 1 cup mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 tablespoons ghee
– 2 sprigs fresh rosemary, chopped
– Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. Heat the ghee in a skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the mushrooms and cook for 3-4 minutes, or until they release their moisture and start to brown.
3. Add the chopped rosemary and stir to combine. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, until the mushrooms are tender and fragrant.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with additional rosemary if desired.

Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes

Ghee-fried chicken tenders with honey mustard

Elevate your fried chicken game with this flavorful recipe that combines the richness of ghee with the tanginess of honey mustard. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a party appetizer.

Ingredients:

– 1 pound chicken tenders
– 1/2 cup ghee, melted
– 1 tablespoon honey mustard
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Vegetable oil for frying

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a shallow dish, mix together melted ghee, honey mustard, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Add chicken tenders to the dish and toss until coated evenly.
4. Heat about 1/2 inch (1 cm) of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
5. Fry chicken tenders for about 5-6 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through.
6. Transfer fried chicken tenders to a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for an additional 10-12 minutes to crisp up.

Cooking Time: About 20-22 minutes

Summary

Discover the deliciously simple world of ghee recipes! From savory dishes to sweet treats, this article shares 20 mouth-watering recipes that showcase the versatility and flavor-enhancing properties of ghee. Try roasting garlic mashed potatoes or Brussels sprouts with balsamic glaze, sautéing green beans with almonds, or baking sweet potato fries. You’ll also find sweet options like fried banana pancakes, toasted granola with honey, and glazed carrots with thyme. Whether you’re a foodie or just looking to elevate your cooking game, these ghee recipes are sure to inspire.