Out of Ghee? Try These 4 Easy Swaps
Run out of ghee mid-recipe? No worries. We've got 4 tried-and-tested substitutes that actually work. Whether you're making a quick weeknight dinner or baking something special, these alternatives will save your dish. The most popular swap is clarified butter, which works great in both cooking and baking. Each substitute below includes exact measurements and tips so you know exactly what to do.
⚡ Quick Answer (30 sec read)
Use Clarified Butter instead. Use same amount. Almost identical.
✅ 4 Tested Ghee Substitutes (With Exact Ratios)
1. Clarified Butter
BothUse same amount. Almost identical.
2. Unsalted Butter
BothUse same amount. Less nutty, lower smoke point.
3. Coconut Oil
CookingUse same amount. Good for dals, slight coconut taste.
4. Vegetable Oil + Butter
CookingMix 1:1 for roti and paratha.
Tips for Substituting Ghee
When substituting ghee in baking, always consider how the swap affects moisture, fat content, and flavor. Start with the exact ratios given, then adjust in future batches if needed. For best results, bring refrigerated substitutes to room temperature before mixing.
What NOT to Do When Substituting Ghee
- xDon't use the same amount without checking the ratio - some substitutes are stronger or weaker than ghee.
- xDon't substitute in recipes where ghee is the star ingredient - the difference will be too noticeable.
- xDon't combine multiple substitutes at once - pick one and adjust from there.
Quick Substitution Ratios
| Substitute | Amount for 1 cup Ghee | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Clarified Butter | Use same amount | both |
| Unsalted Butter | Use same amount | both |
| Coconut Oil | Use same amount | cooking |
| Vegetable Oil + Butter | Mix 1:1 for roti and paratha | cooking |
Safety Tips
- 1.Always check for allergies - if someone is allergic to ghee, they may also react to certain substitutes like nut-based alternatives.
- 2.When baking, substitutes can affect rising and texture. Test with a small batch first if making for an important occasion.
- 3.Check expiration dates on substitutes - using fresh ingredients ensures the best flavor and food safety.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best substitute for ghee?
The best substitute for ghee is Clarified Butter. Use same amount. Almost identical. This works well in most recipes that call for ghee.
Can I use clarified instead of ghee?
Yes, clarified butter is an excellent substitute for ghee. Use same amount. Almost identical.
What can I use instead of ghee in baking?
For baking, the best ghee substitutes are: Clarified Butter, Unsalted Butter. These options will give you similar results in cakes, cookies, and other baked goods.
Related Ingredient Substitutes
Need More Kitchen Help?
CookChook has more tools to help you cook smarter, not harder.