Ghee
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Ghee (Hindi घी, from Sanskrit ghṛta घृत "sprinkled" Urdu ; گهى) is a type of clarified butter important in Indian cuisine and Pakistani cuisine. Ghee is made by simmering unsalted butter in a large pot, until its water has boiled off and its protein has settled to the bottom. The clarified butter is then spooned off, taking care not to disturb the milk solids on the bottom of the pan. This method of preparation gives ghee a somewhat nutty aroma that Western clarified butter does not have.
Properties
Unlike butter, ghee can be stored for extended periods without refrigeration, provided it is kept in an airtight container to prevent oxidation. This extended life is due to the destruction of microbes and enzymes during simmering and the removal of water. Also unlike butter, ghee can be heated to its smoke point without discoloring or developing a burnt taste, making it superior for deep frying. In fact, until refined vegetable oil came into popular use in India, ghee was the mainstay of all fried dishes.Religious uses
Ghee is frequently used for libations in Vedic rituals (see Yajurveda), and there is even a hymn to ghee. Ghee is also burned in the Hindu religious ceremony of Aarti. It is used in marriages and funerals, and for bathing idols during worship. In other religious observances, such as the prayers to Shiva on Maha Shivaratri, ghee is sacrificed along with four other sacred substances: sugar, milk, yogurt and honey. According to the Mahabharata, ghee is the very root of sacrifice by Bhishma.Health Concerns
Like any clarified butter, Ghee is composed almost entirely of saturated fat, the excessive consumption of which is linked with a variety of maladies, including coronary heart disease.Ayurvedic texts, however, describe many diverse mind/body benefits. For example,
- Absorption: Ghee is an integral part of the science of ayurvedic herbal formulation. Since ghee is an oil, it can bond with lipid-soluble nutrients and herbs to penetrate the lipid-based cell walls of the body. It is stated to increase the potency of certain herbs by carrying the active components to the interior of the cells where they impart the most benefit.
- Digestion: The ayurvedic texts say that Ghee helps balance excess stomach acid, and helps maintain/repair the mucus lining of the stomach.
- Mild Burns: Like aloe, Ghee is said to prevent blisters and scarring if applied quickly to affected skin.
- Mind: Ghee is said to promote all three aspects of mental functioning -- learning, memory and recall.
- Ayurvedic Balance: Ghee balances both Vata (the dosha that controls movement in mind and body) and Pitta (the dosha that controls heat and metabolism).
Other uses
Ayurveda makes use of ghee in medications. Eating ghee is believed to enhance virility and sexual potency.
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