This Is The Best Keto-Friendly Replacement For Butter

In terms of diet fads, the keto diet is one of the most popular food trends right now (via Food Institute). Keto-friendly recipes, hacks, and products are everywhere. The low-carb, high-fat, moderate-protein diet is nothing new though. In fact, it was used in the 19^th century to help those with diabetes, and starting in 1920, it was used to treat patients with epilepsy, as explained by the Harvard School of Public Health. Now, however, it's popular for weight loss. The process involves denying the body glucose (from carbs), so that it relies on ketones from stored fat for energy instead.

On the keto diet, high-carb foods like breads, rice, starchy vegetables, and beans are not allowed. But foods high in saturated fats like fatty meats and butter and unsaturated fats like avocados and oily fish are allowed. But is butter the best option when you are trying to follow the keto diet?

When it comes to the keto diet, ghee is the best replacement for butter, according to Perfect Keto. The difference between them isn't much, but ghee has slightly more good fats, vitamins, and medium-chain triglycerides, which are beneficial for those abiding by the diet. Although not specific to keto, ghee is also better for those who are sensitive to dairy and has a higher smoke point than butter, making it better to cook with.

So what is ghee? Ghee is the Hindi word for "fat" and is popular in Indian cuisine (via the Spruce Eats). It is similar to clarified butter in that the milk solids and butterfat are separated. But unlike clarified butter, ghee is simmered longer, allowing it to caramelize and giving it a nutty flavor.

If you're following the keto diet, next time you cook, you might want to skip the butter and reach for the ghee instead.