Clarified butter is made by slowly heating ordinary butter and separating substances from it that are not fats. During this process:
- water evaporates,
- milk proteins (including casein) create foam on the surface,
- milk sugar (lactose) and fine solid particles settle to the bottom.
After removing them what remains is pure milk fat with a golden color, delicate aroma and exceptional thermal stability. It is distinguished by a high smoke point – about 250°C – which makes it much more resistant to burning than ordinary butter or some vegetable oils. This is how fat is created:
- easily digestible,
- free of lactose and milk proteins,
- long durability,
- suitable for frying and everyday use in the kitchen.
It is worth adding that this is a product well known in cuisines around the world. It has been used in many regions of South Asia for hundreds of yearsboth in cooking and in traditional methods of supporting health.
Clarified butter is primarily associated with frying fat, but these are only some of its possibilities. In fact provides a number of ingredients that can support various body systems, including bones, joints, eyes, and even the condition of the intestinal microbiota.
The most important properties of clarified butter:
- content of fat-soluble vitamins (A, D, E, K) – support proper bone mineralization, healthy eyesight and tissue protection against oxidative stress,
- natural butyric acid – supports the regeneration of the intestinal epithelium, can soothe irritations and helps stabilize the digestive tract,
- the presence of medium- and short-chain fatty acids – they are more easily absorbed and used by the body as a source of energy,
- high temperature resistance
- good tolerance in people with lactose intolerance – during clarification, lactose is almost completely removed,
- delicate, slightly nutty flavor.
As we age, the body becomes more demanding when it comes to the quality of the fats we consume. The digestive system works slower, joints need support, and the need for fat-soluble vitamins increases. Clarified butter meets these needs exceptionally well.
- Supports the condition of bones and joints.
- It may have a beneficial effect on eyesight.
- Relieves intestinal discomfort.
- It is well tolerated by people with lactose intolerance.
- It provides an easily used source of energy.
- It makes it easier to prepare light but filling dishes.
Clarified butter does not replace a nutritious, varied diet. However, regularly used it can improve digestive comfort, provide essential vitamins and make daily meals more nutritious.
Many people associate clarified butter with a ready-made product bought in a store. Meanwhile you can prepare them quickly yourself, under full control, and it does not require advanced skills or specialized tools. Importantly, the home-made version often has a more intense aroma and stays fresh longer.
How to make clarified butter at home – step by step:
- Prepare the ingredients, i.e. plain butter with high fat content (82-83%). Cut the cube into smaller portions so that it melts faster.
- Heat slowly – place the butter in a pot and set the burner to minimum power. Do not mix.
- Remove the foam – when the butter starts bubbling, white foam will appear on the surface. It is casein – it should be systematically removed with a spoon or strainer.
- Wait until the water evaporates completely – the clarification process usually takes 20-30 minutes. At the end, a light sediment will appear at the bottom – these are the remains of proteins and lactose.
- Strain the fat – when the butter is transparent, golden and free of foam, remove it from the heat. Filter through cheesecloth or a fine strainer into a clean, dry container.
- Leave to cool – once it sets, you will obtain butter with a uniform, smooth consistency.
Well stored – in a tightly closed container, away from light – it can stay fresh for up to several months. In turn, in the refrigerator this time is even longer.
You can easily and quickly prepare clarified butter at home. Use it in everyday cooking to provide yourself with a “boost” of vitamins A, D, E, K and natural fatty acids that support your eyesight and intestines.
Source: Terazgotuje.pl
