Clarified butter: Difference between revisions

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'''Clarified butter''' is a type of [[butter]] that has been heated to remove its [[milk solids]] and water, leaving behind only the pure, golden butterfat. This process gives clarified butter a higher smoke point than regular butter, making it ideal for high-heat cooking methods like [[sautéing]] and [[frying]]. It also has a longer shelf life than regular butter, as the milk solids that can cause butter to spoil are removed.
== Clarified Butter ==


== History ==
[[File:Butterschmalz-2.jpg|Butterschmalz-2|thumb|right]]


The use of clarified butter dates back thousands of years and is a staple in many [[cuisine|cuisines]] around the world. In [[India]], it is known as [[ghee]] and is used extensively in both cooking and religious rituals. In [[France]], clarified butter is known as ''beurre noisette'' and is used in a variety of dishes.
'''Clarified butter''' is a form of [[butter]] that has been processed to remove water and milk solids, leaving behind pure [[butterfat]]. This process enhances the butter's shelf life and increases its smoke point, making it ideal for high-temperature cooking methods such as [[frying]] and [[sautéing]].


== Production ==
== Preparation ==


The production of clarified butter involves heating butter until it melts, allowing the milk solids to separate from the butterfat. The milk solids are then skimmed off the top and the water is allowed to evaporate, leaving behind the clear butterfat. This can be done at home or on a commercial scale.
The preparation of clarified butter involves gently heating butter until the milk solids separate from the butterfat. The butter is melted over low heat, allowing the water to evaporate and the milk solids to settle at the bottom. The clear, golden liquid on top is then carefully poured off, leaving the milk solids behind. This liquid is the clarified butter.


== Uses ==
== Uses ==


Clarified butter is used in a variety of culinary applications. Its high smoke point makes it ideal for frying and sautéing, while its rich, nutty flavor enhances the taste of a variety of dishes. It can also be used in baking, where it contributes a moist, tender texture to baked goods.
Clarified butter is widely used in [[culinary]] applications due to its rich flavor and high smoke point. It is a staple in [[Indian cuisine]], where it is known as [[ghee]]. In [[French cuisine]], clarified butter is used in the preparation of sauces such as [[béarnaise sauce]] and [[hollandaise sauce]]. It is also used in baking and as a base for [[sautéing]] meats and vegetables.


== Health aspects ==
== Nutritional Information ==


While clarified butter is high in saturated fats, it is also rich in vitamins A, E, and K2. Some studies suggest that the consumption of clarified butter can help improve heart health, although more research is needed in this area.
Clarified butter is composed almost entirely of fat, with a small amount of vitamins such as [[vitamin A]], [[vitamin D]], and [[vitamin E]]. It is free from lactose and casein, making it suitable for individuals with lactose intolerance or dairy allergies.
 
== Variations ==
 
[[File:Butterschmalz-3.jpg|Butterschmalz-3|thumb|left]]
 
There are several variations of clarified butter, including ghee, which is cooked longer to develop a nutty flavor. Another variation is [[beurre noisette]], or "brown butter," which is made by cooking butter until the milk solids turn brown, imparting a rich, nutty flavor.
 
== Storage ==
 
Clarified butter has a longer shelf life than regular butter due to the removal of water and milk solids. It can be stored at room temperature in an airtight container for several months. For extended storage, it can be refrigerated or frozen.
 
== Related Pages ==


== See also ==
* [[Butter]]
* [[Butter]]
* [[Ghee]]
* [[Ghee]]
* [[Cooking oil]]
* [[Cooking oil]]
* [[Saturated fat]]
* [[Frying]]
* [[Sautéing]]


[[Category:Food and drink]]
[[Category:Dairy products]]
[[Category:Cooking fats]]
[[Category:Cooking fats]]
[[Category:Dairy products]]
[[Category:Indian cuisine]]
 
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Latest revision as of 10:54, 23 March 2025

Clarified Butter[edit]

Butterschmalz-2

Clarified butter is a form of butter that has been processed to remove water and milk solids, leaving behind pure butterfat. This process enhances the butter's shelf life and increases its smoke point, making it ideal for high-temperature cooking methods such as frying and sautéing.

Preparation[edit]

The preparation of clarified butter involves gently heating butter until the milk solids separate from the butterfat. The butter is melted over low heat, allowing the water to evaporate and the milk solids to settle at the bottom. The clear, golden liquid on top is then carefully poured off, leaving the milk solids behind. This liquid is the clarified butter.

Uses[edit]

Clarified butter is widely used in culinary applications due to its rich flavor and high smoke point. It is a staple in Indian cuisine, where it is known as ghee. In French cuisine, clarified butter is used in the preparation of sauces such as béarnaise sauce and hollandaise sauce. It is also used in baking and as a base for sautéing meats and vegetables.

Nutritional Information[edit]

Clarified butter is composed almost entirely of fat, with a small amount of vitamins such as vitamin A, vitamin D, and vitamin E. It is free from lactose and casein, making it suitable for individuals with lactose intolerance or dairy allergies.

Variations[edit]

Butterschmalz-3

There are several variations of clarified butter, including ghee, which is cooked longer to develop a nutty flavor. Another variation is beurre noisette, or "brown butter," which is made by cooking butter until the milk solids turn brown, imparting a rich, nutty flavor.

Storage[edit]

Clarified butter has a longer shelf life than regular butter due to the removal of water and milk solids. It can be stored at room temperature in an airtight container for several months. For extended storage, it can be refrigerated or frozen.

Related Pages[edit]