Vegan Ghee Substitute: Best Dairy-Free Alternatives
Quick Answer
The best vegan ghee substitutes are coconut oil, vegan butter, and refined coconut oil. Use a 1:1 ratio for most recipes, with coconut oil being the closest match for ghee's high smoke point and texture.
Best Substitutes
Refined Coconut Oil
1:1The closest vegan alternative to ghee with similar texture and high smoke point
Best for:
Refined coconut oil has a neutral flavor, making it ideal for savory dishes
Vegan Butter
1:1Plant-based butter that mimics dairy butter's properties
Best for:
Choose brands with high fat content for best results
Extra Virgin Coconut Oil
1:1Unrefined coconut oil with natural coconut flavor
Best for:
Has a distinct coconut flavor that works well in many recipes
Avocado Oil
1:1Neutral-flavored oil with high smoke point
Best for:
Excellent for high-temperature cooking but lacks ghee's richness
Cashew Butter (Melted)
1:1Rich, creamy alternative with nutty flavor
Best for:
Add a small amount of oil to achieve the right consistency
Olive Oil
1:1Mediterranean oil with distinct flavor
Best for:
Use extra virgin for flavor, light olive oil for high-heat cooking
Cooking Tips
- 💡For authentic Indian dishes, refined coconut oil works best as it has a neutral flavor
- 💡When making vegan ghee, gently heat coconut oil with a pinch of turmeric for color
- 💡For baking, vegan butter provides the best texture and flavor
- 💡Add a small amount of nutritional yeast to coconut oil for a more buttery flavor
- 💡Store homemade vegan ghee in the refrigerator for up to 3 months
- 💡For high-heat cooking, use avocado oil or refined coconut oil
- 💡When substituting in curries, add the oil at the beginning of cooking for best flavor
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best vegan substitute for ghee?
Refined coconut oil is the best vegan substitute for ghee because it has a similar texture, high smoke point, and neutral flavor that works well in most recipes.
Can I use coconut oil instead of ghee?
Yes, coconut oil is an excellent substitute for ghee. Use refined coconut oil for neutral flavor or extra virgin coconut oil if you want a subtle coconut taste.
Is there a dairy-free ghee substitute?
Yes, several dairy-free alternatives work well including coconut oil, vegan butter, avocado oil, and cashew butter. Each has different properties suited for different cooking methods.
Can I make vegan ghee at home?
Yes, you can make a vegan ghee substitute by melting refined coconut oil and adding turmeric for color and nutritional yeast for flavor. This creates a close approximation to traditional ghee.
What's the difference between ghee and vegan ghee?
Traditional ghee is made from butter with milk solids removed, while vegan ghee is made from plant-based oils. Vegan ghee lacks the dairy proteins but can achieve similar texture and cooking properties.
Can I use vegan ghee in baking?
Yes, vegan ghee substitutes work well in baking. Use vegan butter for the best results in pastries and cakes, or refined coconut oil for a more neutral flavor.
Does vegan ghee have the same smoke point as regular ghee?
It depends on the substitute used. Refined coconut oil has a similar smoke point to ghee (400°F), while avocado oil has an even higher smoke point (520°F).
Can I substitute ghee with olive oil?
Yes, olive oil can work as a ghee substitute, but it has a distinct flavor that may not work in all recipes. Use light olive oil for high-heat cooking or extra virgin for flavor.
Summary
Discover the best vegan ghee substitutes including coconut oil, vegan butter, and plant-based alternatives. Perfect for dairy-free cooking and baking.