Ghee vs coconut oil: Which is better for health and cooking?

Have you been also wondering about which oil you should use for cooking? While many households believe in using pure coconut oil for cooking, some prefer using pure desi ghee. Both cooking mediums have very different tastes and very different uses. Let us know, which is better for cooking and health!

Coconut oil vs ghee: Properties

While coconut oil and ghee are widely used in India, their extraction and use remains very different.

Coconut oil is typically extracted from the meat (kernel) of mature coconuts. It is composed of 90 per cent fatty acids. The main type of saturated fat in coconut oil is lauric acid, which is known for its potential antimicrobial properties.

Ghee, on the other hand, is clarified butter. It is made by heating butter to separate the milk solids and water from the fat, resulting in a golden, flavorful liquid.

Ghee vs Coconut oil for cooking

Coconut oil has a relatively high smoke point, around 350°F to 400°F (175°C to 205°C), making it suitable for high-heat cooking methods such as frying, sautéing, and baking. On the other hand, ghee has a higher smoke point than coconut oil, typically around 450°F to 485°F (232°C to 252°C), making it ideal for high-heat cooking methods like frying and deep-frying.

Ghee vs coconut oil: health benefits

Research has shown that coconut oil helps in metabolism enhancement and supports weight loss. Conversely, other studies highlight concerns about coconut oil's impact on LDL (bad) cholesterol levels, suggesting that saturated fats might elevate heart attack risk.

Ghee, on the other hand, like coconut oil is associated with heart disease. However, ghee contains butyrate, a short-chain fatty acid that may have anti-inflammatory and gut health benefits.

Also watch: No more cotton candy in Puducherry! Government bans sale but there is a catch