Ghee’s Glory Across Generations: Unlocking New Investment Opportunities in Oman’s Culinary Heritage
The Timeless Appeal of Ghee: A Culinary Tradition
Growing up, the unmistakable aroma of butter simmering always indicated something special was underway. The process of making ghee was not merely a culinary task; it was a cherished ritual woven into the fabric of daily life.
The journey began with fresh, full-fat milk, sourced from the family’s cow or buffalo. The milk would be gently boiled, cooled, and cultured using homemade yogurt. This mixture was then hand-churned to produce white butter, or makhan. My grandmother would melt this butter over a low flame, releasing a rich, nutty aroma and separating the fat into two distinct layers.
Once the bubbling subsided, the golden liquid was ready to be strained and cooled. This beloved ghee would be kneaded into dough, drizzled over lentil dishes, spread on rotis, or added to sweet treats.
Long before ghee emerged as a popular ingredient in health-conscious diets like keto and paleo, it was a staple in South Asian households, celebrated for its role in rituals, festivals, and daily nourishment. Chef and restaurateur Vikas Khanna, owner of Bungalow in New York City, eloquently describes ghee as “a liquid memory” and “a warm hug.” Beyond its cultural significance in South Asia, ghee has become a versatile cooking staple, enhancing a variety of dishes.
Noor Murad, a chef and author of “Lugma,” notes ghee’s presence in several Arab-speaking countries, where it is known as samneh. It features prominently in both savory and sweet dishes, such as harees—a porridge-like blend of meat and wheat—and rangina, a dessert made from fresh dates topped with toasted flour and ghee.
London-based nutritionist Farzanah Nasser appreciates ghee for its versatility. Due to its high smoke point, it is suitable for numerous cooking methods. Nasser incorporates it into rice and khichdi, and even cooks bananas in ghee to enhance her oatmeal.
For those interested in incorporating ghee into their culinary repertoire, here are a few guidelines:
Choosing the Right Ghee
Quality can greatly vary depending on the processing method and type of milk. Buffalo milk ghee tends to be richer with a thicker texture and deeper flavor, while cow’s milk ghee has a light golden hue and a more subtle aroma. Look for ghee made using traditional methods, often labeled as bilona ghee. This involves curdling quality milk with homemade yogurt, churning it with a wooden churner, and then heating it to create ghee. Brands that emphasize small-batch or grass-fed sources are also good choices.
Do’s and Don’ts
To fully utilize ghee, it’s essential to understand how to incorporate it effectively into your cooking, regardless of your experience level. Here are some helpful tips:
- Do use ghee for high-heat cooking: It has a higher smoke point than butter, making it ideal for frying and sautéing.
- Don’t assume it’s universally healthy: While ghee has health benefits, it is still a form of fat and should be used mindfully.
- Do experiment with ghee: Try using it to cook spices, bake, or even as a topping for popcorn.
- Don’t refrigerate unless necessary: Ghee can be stored for months at room temperature in an airtight container. Refrigeration causes it to solidify and will require it to be brought to room temperature before use.
As interest in ghee continues to grow, it remains a beloved ingredient, rich in history and flavor, inviting everyone to indulge in its endless possibilities.
Special Analysis by Omanet | Navigate Oman’s Market
The resurgence of ghee as a cherished culinary staple highlights a growing demand for traditional foods in Oman, offering business opportunities for local producers and retailers to capitalize on this trend by sourcing and promoting high-quality, traditional ghee. However, investors must be cautious of market saturation and quality variations that could damage brand reputation in this competitive landscape. Thus, it is crucial for entrepreneurs to focus on authenticity and marketing to distinguish their products and establish trust with consumers.
