When it comes to Indian cooking, the ingredients we use play a big role not just in taste—but in health too. One of the most debated choices in Indian kitchens today is: Should you cook with desi ghee or refined oil? While refined oils have gained popularity due to aggressive marketing and their ‘light’ nature, there’s a reason why our grandmothers always preferred desi ghee for cooking dal, parathas, curries, and sweets. In this blog, we’ll dive deep into the differences, benefits, and health impacts of desi ghee vs. refined oils, and help you understand which one deserves a permanent spot in your kitchen.
What is Desi Ghee?
Desi Ghee, also known as clarified butter, is made by simmering butter (often from cow or buffalo milk) to remove water and milk solids. The result is a golden, aromatic fat rich in flavor and nutrients.
It’s an Ayurvedic superfood, and a staple in Indian households for centuries—used not just for cooking, but also for skin care, hair care, and even religious rituals.
What is Refined Oil?
Refined oils are extracted from seeds like sunflower, soybean, or canola using chemical solvents and high heat. They undergo bleaching, deodorizing, and refining processes to look clear and odorless.
They are marketed as “light”, “cholesterol-free” or “heart-friendly”, but often lose most of their nutrients during processing—and may contain harmful residues.
Desi Ghee vs. Refined Oils: A Nutritional Comparison
Let’s break it down.
| Property | Desi Ghee | Refined Oil |
| Source | Cow/Buffalo Milk | Seeds (sunflower, soybean, etc.) |
| Processing | Natural, slow heat | Chemical solvents, high heat |
| Nutrients Retained | Rich in vitamins A, D, E, K | Many nutrients lost during refining |
| Smoke Point | High (~250°C) | Varies (~180–220°C) |
| Omega-3 Fatty Acids | Present (especially in cow ghee) | Usually low or absent |
| Shelf Life | Long (no refrigeration needed) | Medium (can turn rancid quickly) |
Top 10 Benefits of Desi Ghee Over Refined Oils
Let’s explore why desi ghee is not just better—but smarter.
Rich in Healthy Fats
Desi ghee contains saturated fats that are essential for hormone production, brain health, and nutrient absorption. Unlike trans fats in refined oils, these natural fats are body-friendly.
Moderate use of desi ghee can actually help in weight management!
Boosts Immunity
Desi ghee is packed with butyrate, a short-chain fatty acid that supports gut health and immunity. A healthy gut means better digestion, fewer infections, and improved overall health.
Ancient Ayurveda always recommends a spoon of ghee with every meal for this reason.
High Smoke Point = Safe Cooking
Refined oils can break down into toxic compounds when heated to high temperatures (like frying). Desi ghee, on the other hand, has a higher smoke point, making it stable and safe even for deep-frying.
Perfect for Indian cooking styles like tadka, roasting, or frying.
Free from Chemicals and Additives
When you buy pure desi ghee online, especially from trusted sources like Green Poshan, you get a natural, chemical-free product. Refined oils, however, go through processes involving hexane, bleaching agents, and preservatives.
No additives, no chemicals—just pure, traditional goodness in desi ghee.
Supports Digestion
Desi ghee stimulates the secretion of digestive enzymes, lubricates the digestive tract, and helps in better absorption of nutrients.
That’s why Ayurveda recommends ghee especially for people with weak digestion, constipation, or IBS.
Great for Heart Health (Yes, Really!)
In moderation, the short-chain fatty acids in desi ghee actually help reduce bad cholesterol and increase good cholesterol (HDL). Several new studies challenge the myth that saturated fats from ghee are harmful.
A teaspoon a day can keep your heart happy.
Aids in Weight Loss
Desi ghee improves metabolism, reduces cravings, and keeps you full for longer. It’s especially useful in Keto diets and low-carb Indian diets.
Want to lose belly fat? Add a spoon of ghee to your morning meal!
Packed with Vitamins
Desi ghee contains fat-soluble vitamins A, D, E, and K—which are essential for immunity, bone health, vision, and skin.
These vitamins are often absent in refined oils due to the high-heat processing.
Safe for Lactose Intolerant People
Since all milk solids are removed in the making of ghee, it’s usually safe for people who are lactose or casein intolerant.
You enjoy the benefits of dairy without the downsides.
Tastes Better and Smells Amazing
Let’s be honest. No refined oil can compete with the rich aroma and taste that desi ghee brings to a dish—be it khichdi, dal, halwa, or chapati.
Food tastes more wholesome and satisfying when cooked with ghee.
Why You Should Be Cautious with Refined Oils
Refined oils might seem attractive because they’re cheap, light, and have a long shelf life. But here’s what you should know:
- Highly processed with chemicals
- Stripped of natural nutrients
- Can form trans fats at high heat
- Linked to inflammation, heart disease, and lifestyle disorders
- No flavor or richness—just bland, oily residue
If health is your goal, it’s better to switch to natural, traditional fats like desi ghee.
Why Green Poshan Is the Best Place to Buy Desi Ghee Online
At Green Poshan, we believe in going back to our roots. Our desi ghee is:
Made from pure cow’s milk using traditional bilona methods
Free from additives and preservatives
Packed fresh in eco-friendly jars
Available for doorstep delivery anywhere in India
Sourced from local farmers for authenticity and quality
Whether you’re adding it to hot rotis, giving tadka to dal, or making laddoos—Green Poshan’s pure desi ghee adds health and flavor to every bite.
Order desi ghee online now at Green Poshan and taste the difference!
Desi Ghee
Made from desi cow milk ghee, this golden elixir is slow-cooked using the traditional bilona method to preserve nutrients and deliver unmatched taste.
FAQs About Desi Ghee vs. Refined Oil
Q1. Is desi ghee okay for daily use?
Yes, 1–2 teaspoons per day is healthy for most people. It’s especially good when combined with traditional Indian diets.
Q2. Does ghee increase cholesterol?
When used in moderation, ghee helps improve good cholesterol and doesn’t harm the heart.
Q3. Can I replace all oil with ghee?
For Indian cooking—yes. Ghee works well for frying, sautéing, and even baking.
Q4. Is desi ghee suitable for kids?
Absolutely! It supports bone development, digestion, and brain health.
The Takeaway: Go Back to Natural Fats
In the battle of desi ghee vs. refined oils, desi ghee is the clear winner for:
- Health
- Taste
- Nutrition
- Safety
- And even tradition
It’s time to remove the myths around ghee and embrace this golden gem for what it is—a wholesome, nourishing fat that’s been trusted for generations.
Make the switch today.
Choose natural over processed.
And cook with Green Poshan’s desi ghee for your family’s health.
Ready to Buy Desi Ghee Online?
Visit Green Poshan and browse our range of pure, natural desi ghee and green groceries. We offer:
- Fast delivery
- Secure packaging
- Trusted quality
- Affordable pricing
Shop desi ghee online now and bring back the taste of tradition!