Does Ghee Need to Be Refrigerated?

What Happens if I Refrigerate Ghee

The simple answer is no. Ghee has a long shelf life and doesn’t spoil at room temperature for months.

However, there are factors to consider when choosing whether to refrigerate Ghee. Some of the things to ponder are your environment and source.

In this quick read, we’ll answer the question: does ghee need to be refrigerated? Let’s find out!

What Happens if I Refrigerate Ghee?

One thing is for sure: Ghee will last longer in the refrigerator. Your best bet, though, is to enjoy your jar of ghee within six months to get the most flavor.

However, it has scant moisture, so it doesn’t spoil easily at room temperature. Yet, if you live in a warm climate, like SoFla, you should refrigerate your ghee.

On another note, your ghee will solidify further in the fridge. Depending on its saltiness, it may come out with a different texture.

To use ghee after cooling it, let it sit out on the counter for a few hours. Thawing it this way will ensure that it returns to its original form.

Remember:

It’s in your best interest to seal off moisture and foreign particles from your ghee. This is to avoid sudden spoilage wherever you plan to store it.

What’s The Best Way to Store Ghee?

Since its shelf life is long, ghee will stay in the cupboard or pantry for months. If you plan to use it over the next two months, this may be best for you.

You should take three things into account:

  1. Store it in an airtight container to prevent contaminants and moisture from affecting your ghee.
  2. Put it in shade and away from heat sources.
  3. Always use a clean utensil when scooping out your ghee.

Following these tips will ensure your ghee doesn’t go rancid too quickly. In turn, you’ll reap its best quality for months.

Does Ghee Need to Be Refrigerated

What if I Freeze Ghee?

Freezing ghee, like most foods, can prolong its freshness to about a year. This is the best method if you’re stocking up on ghee for the year.

You should take note: ghee doesn’t appreciate freezing and thawing repeatedly. At two reruns, quality will degrade.

Always thaw at room temperature or at the lowest heat setting on the stove to prevent uneven melting. The hours-long wait will pay off in taste and consistency.

How to Tell When Ghee Is Bad

Ghee is a long-lifer, but it’s not invincible. There may be a time when you have to chuck your ghee into the trash can.

Here are signs that your Ghee has gone bad:

  1. White spots show up on the surface. Fuzzy and off-putting, these are spurts of mold that most likely came from airborne spores. If moisture gets in contact with your ghee, mold can thrive.
  2. Its color or texture may be odd. Ghee should have a smooth structure and be yellow like regular melted butter. Otherwise, it may have spoiled.
  3. If a fetid, rotten scent is present, that should alarm you. Ghee should smell nutty and pleasing.
  4. Ghee should not be sour, in which case, it may have gone bad.

Any telltale signs of spoiled ghee should have you chucking it out. Else, you may come off with food poisoning, or worse, botulism.

How to Keep Ghee from Spoilage

Your ghee can stay fresh for up to a year at room temperature. However, that’s if you keep it airtight and away from sunbeams.

Additionally, set ghee somewhere cool and dry. You can prolong its shelf life, even when constantly used, by fending off moisture from it.

In talks of usage, always dip with a clean, dry utensil to prevent contamination. Doing so will ensure that mold doesn’t obliterate your supply.

Trust me, all your labor will pay off in quality ghee for months!

Wrapping Up

Ghee has a great shelf life at room temperature. The quality stays for a few months and keeps its original texture intact.

Yet, refrigerating ghee will prolong its life for up to six months. Additionally, it can last around a year in the freezer.

Whichever way you choose to store your ghee, use airtight containers to avoid contamination. Plus, check for mold from time to time and trash it if spoiled.

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