Butter is a staple in many Indian kitchens, adding flavor and richness to everyday dishes. But if you’re looking to replace butter in your diet, we’ve got you covered! Indianexpress.com spoke to culinary experts about what they typically substitute for butter in cooking or baking. There are several reasons for wanting to switch out butter. Chef Ved Gautam, Executive Chef at For Earth’s Sake Cafe, Galleria & South Point Mall, highlights two key reasons: Many people are lactose intolerant and find that even small amounts of butter can trigger discomfort. Additionally, butter contains a high percentage of saturated fats, which may be a concern for those mindful of heart health or managing their weight. What can you replace butter with? Gautam explains that the best butter replacement depends on its intended use. "The idea is to choose whatever works best at any given point," he says, mentioning that he personally uses various ingredients at home. For baking, he suggests using ghee, coconut oil, cold-pressed oils, nut butters like peanut or almond, banana, and yogurt. But, if you’re looking for a spread, try ghee, coconut oil, nut butters, or yogurt mixed with spices. Ebaani Tewari, Chef-Partner at Kari Apla said that while butter adds a rich flavour and creaminess to dishes, there are plenty of plant-based options commonly available in Indian kitchens and local grocers that can work just as well. "Coconut oil is a great choice for sautéing vegetables or tempering spices, as it can handle high temperatures without burning. The subtle coconut flavor also complements many Indian and regional dishes." She added that peanut oil and sunflower oil are also good alternatives - they’re neutral oils with a high smoke point, which makes them ideal for frying or deep-frying. "When it comes to baking, nut butters like peanut, cashew, or almond are my go-to substitutes for their flavor and ability to bind ingredients together. The only thing to be mindful of nut butters is that they may slightly alter the texture of your baked goods," she added.
