Recipe Details
Transform unsalted butter into rich, shelf-stable ghee butter with this easy trail staple that all campers and hikers can take advantage of. Homemade ghee butter replaces the need for most oils and fats when cooking.
Prep Time
5min
Cook Time
45min
Wait Time
10min
| Characteristic | Details |
|---|---|
| Difficulty: | Easy |
| Cost: | Fairly Low Cost |
| Category: | Camping Staples |
| Seasons: | All |
Ingredients
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For 1 Batch(es)
Ghee
| 1 lbs | Unsalted Butter |
Ghee Butter Directions
- Cut 1 lb unsalted butter into chunks and place in a medium, heavy-bottomed pot.
- Melt the butter over medium-low heat until thoroughly melted (about 5-10 minutes).
- Increase heat to medium and simmer. Skim off foam (milk solids) with a spoon as it forms.
- Cook for 30-40 minutes until the butter turns clear golden and bubbling slows or stops—indicating the water has evaporated.
- Remove from heat and let cool slightly for 5 minutes.
- Line a fine mesh strainer with a paper towel over a heat-safe container (e.g., mason jar). Pour the ghee through to filter out browned solids.
- Cool completely, then seal the container. Store at room temperature or in a cool, dark place. You can still refrigerate it until you head out for your adventure.
Recipe Notes
- Watch for bubbling to slow or stop near the end (30-45 minutes)—that’s when the water’s gone and it’s ready to pull off the heat; avoid burning. The time will vary depending on your stove and stove settings; some run hotter than others. Generally, I average 45 minutes.
- SAFETY NOTE: Don't walk away from the stove while you are making ghee!
- Paper towel works fine instead of cheesecloth for straining—double-layer if needed for finer filtering.
- Yield is about 12-14 oz (1.5-1.75 cups) depending on the butter’s water content—perfect for trail cooking.
- (Option) If you have a countertop mixer, use a paddle attachment and whip up the butter to be a bit fluffy. This will help make the butter softer to spread.
- Use unsalted butter for pure flavour; salted works but may taste slightly different.
Nutrition facts
Per Serving
| Kcal: | 112 kcal |
| Fat: | 13g |
| Saturated fat (g): | 8g |
| Cholesterol: | 33mg |