Discovering a perfect vegan alternative to traditional ghee can be a game-changer for anyone embracing a plant-based lifestyle. This vegan ghee recipe captures the rich, buttery flavor and aroma of classic ghee without any dairy.
Made from wholesome plant-based ingredients, it’s perfect for sautéing, roasting, or simply spreading on your favorite breads and vegetables. Whether you’re vegan, lactose-intolerant, or simply looking to reduce dairy intake, this homemade vegan ghee is a wonderful addition to your kitchen staples.
Not only does it bring depth and richness to your dishes, but it also offers a healthier fat profile and is incredibly easy to make at home. In this blog post, I’ll guide you through the simple steps to create your own batch of vegan ghee that’s versatile and delicious.
Plus, I’ll share tips on how to customize it to your taste and suggest some fantastic serving ideas. Let’s dive in and make your cooking experience even more delightful!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This vegan ghee recipe is a fantastic dairy-free alternative that mimics the nutty, buttery flavor of traditional ghee without using any animal products. It’s made with simple, natural ingredients that you probably already have in your pantry.
The texture is smooth, silky, and perfect for high-heat cooking, just like the original.
Not only does it enhance the taste of your meals, but it also lasts a long time when stored properly, making it economical and convenient. Plus, it’s free from common allergens like dairy and soy, ideal for sensitive diets.
If you love experimenting in the kitchen, this vegan ghee will open up new flavor possibilities while keeping your cooking cruelty-free and wholesome.
Ingredients
- 1 cup refined coconut oil (for a neutral flavor and high smoke point)
- 1/4 cup sunflower oil (or avocado oil for extra richness)
- 2 tablespoons nutritional yeast (for that cheesy, buttery flavor)
- 1 teaspoon turmeric powder (for color and subtle earthiness)
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (optional, for a savory punch)
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional, adds depth and a slight smokiness)
- 1/4 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
Equipment
- Small saucepan or double boiler
- Whisk or spoon for mixing
- Heatproof jar or container with a lid for storage
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Optional: fine mesh strainer (if you want an ultra-smooth texture)
Instructions
- Combine the oils. In a small saucepan over low heat, add the refined coconut oil and sunflower or avocado oil. Heat gently until melted and fully combined, stirring occasionally.
- Add the dry ingredients. Slowly whisk in the nutritional yeast, turmeric powder, garlic powder (if using), smoked paprika (if using), and salt. Keep whisking to avoid lumps and to ensure everything is well incorporated.
- Simmer gently. Let the mixture simmer on low heat for about 3-5 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld and the turmeric to deepen the color, resembling traditional ghee.
- Remove from heat. Take the saucepan off the stove and let the mixture cool slightly but not solidify.
- Strain (optional). If you prefer a very smooth texture similar to classic ghee, pour the mixture through a fine mesh strainer into your storage container. This step helps remove any undissolved nutritional yeast bits.
- Cool and store. Let the vegan ghee cool completely at room temperature before sealing the jar. It will solidify into a creamy, spreadable consistency. Store in a cool, dark place or refrigerate for longer shelf life.
- Use and enjoy! Use your vegan ghee in all your cooking where traditional ghee is called for. It’s perfect for roasting veggies, pan-frying tofu, or adding richness to sauces.
Tips & Variations
“Using refined coconut oil ensures a neutral base, but if you love a hint of coconut flavor, try unrefined coconut oil instead!”
- Boost the umami: Add a pinch of kala namak (black salt) for a more eggy, savory nuance.
- Herb infusion: Heat the oils with fresh rosemary or thyme for 10 minutes before adding the dry ingredients to create a fragrant herbal ghee.
- Nutty twist: Stir in a teaspoon of roasted ground cashews or almond butter for added richness and texture.
- Smoky flavor: Increase smoked paprika or add a dash of liquid smoke for barbecue-inspired dishes.
- Storage tip: Keep your vegan ghee in a sealed jar away from direct sunlight to maintain freshness. It can last up to 3 months refrigerated.
Nutrition Facts
Nutrient | Amount per 1 tablespoon |
---|---|
Calories | 120 |
Total Fat | 14g |
Saturated Fat | 10g |
Monounsaturated Fat | 3g |
Polyunsaturated Fat | 1g |
Cholesterol | 0mg |
Sodium | 60mg |
Carbohydrates | 1g |
Protein | 1g |
Vitamin B12 (from nutritional yeast) | 1.5mcg (60% DV) |
Serving Suggestions
Vegan ghee is incredibly versatile and can be used in countless ways. Try spreading it on warm toast or bagels for a buttery flavor without dairy.
It’s also perfect for sautéing vegetables, enhancing the taste of stir-fries, or adding to mashed potatoes for extra creaminess.
Use it as a finishing touch on roasted root vegetables or drizzle a little over steamed greens for added richness. This vegan ghee also works beautifully as a base for homemade sauces, gravies, and even vegan béchamel.
For inspiration, explore our Vegan Bechamel Sauce Recipe for Creamy Pasta Dishes to see how you can incorporate it.
Looking for more plant-based inspiration? Check out these recipes:
- Vegetarian Date Cake Recipe: Moist, Easy, and Delicious
- Vegan Bread Machine Recipe for Soft, Delicious Loaves
- Peruvian Vegetable Recipes for Flavorful Healthy Meals
Conclusion
Making your own vegan ghee at home is a rewarding and simple process that elevates your plant-based cooking with rich, buttery flavors and creamy textures. With just a few staple ingredients like refined coconut oil and nutritional yeast, you can create a delicious, dairy-free ghee substitute that suits a variety of culinary uses.
This vegan ghee not only meets dietary needs for vegans and those with lactose intolerance but also adds depth and warmth to your everyday meals. It’s shelf-stable, versatile, and easy to customize with herbs and spices to match your taste preferences.
Whether you’re frying, roasting, or baking, this recipe delivers a satisfying, buttery flavor without compromise.
Try it out, experiment with the variations, and enjoy the delicious results. For more vegan cooking inspiration, don’t forget to explore our other recipes and keep your kitchen exciting and flavorful!
📖 Recipe Card: Vegan Ghee Recipe
Description: A rich and flavorful vegan alternative to traditional ghee made from plant-based oils. Perfect for cooking and adding a buttery taste to your dishes.
Prep Time: PT5M
Cook Time: PT20M
Total Time: PT25M
Servings: 1 cup
Ingredients
- 1 cup refined coconut oil
- 2 tablespoons unsweetened soy milk
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1/4 teaspoon kala namak (black salt)
- 1/4 teaspoon nutritional yeast
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
Instructions
- Heat coconut oil in a small saucepan over low heat.
- Add turmeric, garlic powder, and onion powder; stir well.
- Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
- Mix soy milk with lemon juice and add to the oil mixture.
- Add kala namak and nutritional yeast; whisk until smooth.
- Pour into a jar and let it solidify at room temperature.
Nutrition: Calories: 120 | Protein: 0.2g | Fat: 14g | Carbs: 0.5g
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