If you’ve ever wondered how to combine the rich, buttery texture of ghee with the tropical, fragrant essence of coconut — and keep it completely vegan — you’re in the right place! Traditional ghee is made by simmering butter to remove the milk solids, leaving behind a pure, golden fat that’s perfect for cooking or drizzling.
But what if you’re vegan or dairy-free and still want that luscious, nutty flavor? Enter coconut ghee, a brilliant plant-based alternative that captures the essence of ghee using coconut oil and other natural ingredients.
This coconut ghee vegan recipe offers a creamy, spreadable fat that works wonderfully in your favorite dishes, from sautéing vegetables to baking and even spreading on toast. It’s not only delicious but also packed with healthy fats and free from any animal products, making it ideal for everyone from vegans to those with lactose intolerance.
Whether you’re cooking up a storm or simply want a healthier fat option, this homemade coconut ghee is a kitchen staple you’ll come back to again and again.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Coconut ghee is a game-changer for anyone seeking a dairy-free, vegan-friendly butter substitute. It combines the tropical flavors of coconut with the buttery, nutty richness that ghee lovers crave.
Plus, it’s incredibly versatile and can be used in almost any recipe that calls for ghee or butter.
This recipe is simple, quick, and uses just a handful of wholesome ingredients. You’ll love how smooth and spreadable the result is, with a subtle coconut aroma that enhances both sweet and savory dishes.
Moreover, making your own coconut ghee means you control the quality — no preservatives, no additives, just pure deliciousness.
Finally, it’s a great way to incorporate healthy medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs) from coconut oil, which are known for boosting energy and metabolism, making this not only tasty but good for you as well!
Ingredients
- 1 cup virgin coconut oil (solid state, not melted)
- 1/4 cup refined coconut oil (optional, for a neutral flavor and higher smoke point)
- 1/4 cup coconut butter (for creaminess and body)
- 1 tablespoon sunflower lecithin (helps emulsify and smooth texture)
- 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder (for color and subtle flavor, optional)
- 1/4 teaspoon Himalayan pink salt (optional, for a hint of savory balance)
Equipment
- Double boiler or heatproof bowl and saucepan
- Glass jar or airtight container (for storage)
- Whisk or hand mixer
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Spatula
- Thermometer (optional, for precision)
Instructions
- Prepare your double boiler: Fill a saucepan with about 2 inches of water and bring to a gentle simmer. Place your heatproof bowl or the top part of your double boiler over the saucepan, ensuring it doesn’t touch the water.
- Melt the solid coconut oil and coconut butter: Add the virgin coconut oil, refined coconut oil (if using), and coconut butter into the bowl. Stir occasionally until everything is fully melted and combined.
- Add lecithin and turmeric: Stir in the sunflower lecithin and turmeric powder. The lecithin helps emulsify the mixture, making it creamy and smooth, while turmeric adds a lovely golden hue reminiscent of traditional ghee.
- Simmer gently: Keep the mixture warm over low heat for about 15-20 minutes to allow flavors to meld and any water content to evaporate. Avoid boiling.
- Add salt and whisk: Remove from heat and stir in the Himalayan pink salt if using. Whisk vigorously for 2-3 minutes to incorporate air and achieve a light, creamy texture.
- Cool and store: Pour the mixture into a clean glass jar or container. Allow it to cool at room temperature before sealing. Once cooled, it will solidify into a spreadable, buttery fat. Store in a cool, dark place or refrigerate for longer shelf life.
- Use and enjoy: Use your homemade coconut ghee just like traditional ghee — for cooking, baking, or spreading!
Tips & Variations
For a more neutral taste, increase the proportion of refined coconut oil. For a stronger coconut flavor, use only virgin coconut oil and coconut butter.
Adding a pinch of smoked paprika or garlic powder can create a savory version perfect for roasting vegetables or seasoning tofu.
Make a sweet variation by adding 1 tablespoon of maple syrup or agave nectar and a pinch of cinnamon after whisking.
Remember to always use fresh, high-quality coconut products for the best flavor and health benefits. If you want a creamier consistency, you can increase the coconut butter slightly, but this may reduce the smoke point slightly.
Nutrition Facts
Nutrient | Per 1 tablespoon (14g) |
---|---|
Calories | 120 kcal |
Total Fat | 14 g |
Saturated Fat | 12 g |
Carbohydrates | 0 g |
Protein | 0 g |
Cholesterol | 0 mg |
Vitamin E | 0.1 mg (1% DV) |
Serving Suggestions
This coconut ghee is incredibly versatile and can be used in many ways. Spread it on warm toast or muffins for a luscious breakfast treat.
Use it as a cooking fat for stir-fries, sautéed greens, or roasted vegetables. It also works beautifully in baking — try substituting it for butter or regular ghee in cookies, cakes, or muffins.
For a savory twist, melt it over steamed rice or quinoa, or use it to finish soups and stews for an added richness. If you enjoy experimenting, try incorporating it into your favorite vegan sauces or dressings for a creamy texture and flavor boost.
Looking for more plant-based inspiration? Check out our Thelma Sanders Squash Recipe for a delightful vegetable side, or indulge your sweet tooth with the Peanut Butter Gelato Recipe that pairs beautifully with coconut flavors.
Conclusion
Creating your own coconut ghee is a wonderful way to enjoy the benefits of ghee without compromising your vegan lifestyle. This recipe blends the best of coconut oil and coconut butter to produce a spreadable, flavorful fat that’s perfect for cooking, baking, or simply spreading on your favorite bread.
Not only is it delicious and easy to make, but it also brings a host of health benefits from the natural fats in coconut. With just a few simple ingredients and some gentle heat, you can whip up this versatile staple and keep it handy in your kitchen for all sorts of culinary adventures.
If you’re looking to expand your vegan cooking repertoire, don’t forget to explore other recipes like the Pickled Cherry Pepper Recipe for a tangy condiment that complements coconut ghee perfectly. Happy cooking!
📖 Recipe Card: Coconut Ghee Vegan Recipe
Description: A rich and flavorful vegan ghee alternative made from coconut oil and infused with aromatic spices. Perfect for cooking or drizzling over dishes for added richness.
Prep Time: PT5M
Cook Time: PT15M
Total Time: PT20M
Servings: 1 cup
Ingredients
- 1 cup virgin coconut oil
- 2 tablespoons nutritional yeast
- 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
Instructions
- Melt the coconut oil in a saucepan over low heat.
- Add nutritional yeast, turmeric, garlic powder, smoked paprika, cumin, and salt.
- Stir continuously until all ingredients are well combined.
- Remove from heat and stir in lemon juice.
- Pour the mixture into a clean jar and let it cool to solidify.
- Store in the refrigerator and use as a vegan ghee substitute.
Nutrition: Calories: 120 | Protein: 1g | Fat: 14g | Carbs: 1g
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