ISLAMABAD: Desi ghee has been a staple in traditional Pakistani cooking, and making it from milk cream involves a slightly different process than using butter.
It offers potential health benefits while consumed in moderation due to its high saturated fat content.
Health Benefits:
- It is a source of healthy saturated fats, including medium-chain fatty acids (MCFAs) like lauric acid, which can be a quick energy source for the body.
- Desi Ghee is rich in fat-soluble vitamins A, E, and D, which are essential for various bodily functions, including vision, immune health, and skin health.
- The making process removes milk solids, including lactose and casein, making ghee suitable for individuals who are lactose intolerant or sensitive to dairy proteins.
- Ghee is considered easy to digest. It contains properties that stimulate the digestive process and promote the secretion of stomach acids, aiding in the breakdown of food.
Here’s a simple method to make desi ghee from milk cream at home;
Ingredients:
Fresh milk cream
Instructions:
- Collect fresh milk cream by letting it naturally rise to the top of whole milk or using a separator.
- Whip the cream using a hand mixer or a whisk until it turns into butter. This process separates the butterfat from the liquid buttermilk.
- Continue whipping until the butterfat clumps together. At this point, you will have butter and buttermilk. Strain out the liquid buttermilk and save it for other uses.
- Rinse the butter under cold water to remove any remaining buttermilk.
- Place the butter in a heavy-bottomed pan over low to medium heat. Allow it to melt gradually without stirring.
- Once melted, reduce the heat to simmer. The water content will evaporate as the butter simmers, and the ghee will clarify.
- Skim off the foam that forms on the surface using a wooden spoon or ladle.
- Allow the ghee to simmer until it reaches a golden-brown color. The milk solids at the bottom will turn brown.
- Turn off the heat, let the ghee cool for a few minutes, and strain it.
- Leave the ghee to cool to room temperature before sealing the container. Once cooled, store it in a cool, dark place.
Homemade desi ghee made from milk cream has a distinct flavor and can be a delightful addition to your cooking.
