Ghee, a staple in Indian kitchens, is not just a cooking fat but a golden elixir with numerous health benefits. The traditional Bilona method is the best way to make pure, aromatic ghee at home. Let's dive into this age-old process and bring a touch of heritage to your kitchen!
What is the Bilona Method?
The Bilona method is a traditional Indian technique used to make ghee, a clarified butter that holds a significant place in Indian cuisine and culture. This method has been passed down through generations and is renowned for producing the highest quality, most aromatic, and nutrient-rich ghee. Let’s delve deeper into what makes the Bilona method special and how it differs from modern ghee-making processes.
Why the Bilona Method is Special:
- Purity and Quality: The Bilona method ensures that the ghee is pure, free from additives, and rich in essential fatty acids and vitamins.
- Nutritional Benefits: Ghee made from A2 milk is known for its health benefits, including improved digestion, anti-inflammatory properties, and a rich source of fat-soluble vitamins (A, D, E, and K).
- Aromatic and Flavorful: The slow, traditional process enhances the flavor and aroma of the ghee, making it superior to commercially produced ghee.
- Cultural Significance: This method preserves an ancient culinary tradition, connecting modern kitchens with the wisdom of past generations.
By using the Bilona method, you not only make high-quality ghee but also participate in a time-honored tradition that brings the essence of heritage and health into your home. Enjoy the process, and savor the rich, golden ghee that’s made with love and care!
Ingredients:
- 2 liters of full-fat milk
- 2 tablespoons of plain yogurt (preferably homemade)
Timings:
- Preparation time: 15 minutes
- Cooking time: 1-2 hours
- Total time: Approximately 1-2 days (including fermentation)
Steps we take to make the Bilona Method Ghee:
____________________________________________________________
Step 1: Make Curd
- Boil the Milk: Pour 2 liters of full-fat milk into a heavy-bottomed pan and bring it to a boil.
- Cool the Milk: Let the milk cool until it's lukewarm. You can test it by dipping your finger in the milk—it should feel comfortably warm, not hot.
- Add Yogurt:
- Add 2 tablespoons of plain yogurt to the lukewarm milk and mix well. Cover the pot with a lid and keep it in a warm place overnight to ferment. By the next day, you'll have thick, creamy curd.
Step 2: Churn the Curd
- Churn the Curd : Use a wooden churner or a blender to churn the curd. Add a bit of cold water to facilitate the process. After that, the curd is allowed to churn, until finally you see a clear buttermilk and solid butter.
Step 2: Wash the Butter
- Rinse the Butter: Take the solid butter and rinse it with cold water several times to remove any remaining buttermilk. This step is crucial to ensure that the ghee lasts longer and has a pure taste.
Step 2: Cook the Butter
- Heat the Butter: Place the rinsed butter in a heavy-bottomed pan and heat it on a low flame. The butter will melt and start bubbling.
- Clarify the Butter: Continue to simmer the butter. You'll see white foam forming on top. Stir occasionally and let it cook until the foam subsides, and the butter turns golden and clear.
- Strain the Ghee: Once the ghee is golden and aromatic, strain it using a fine mesh strainer or cheesecloth into a clean, dry jar. Discard the milk solids left behind in the pan.
Step 2: Store the Ghee
- Cool and Store: Let the ghee cool to room temperature before sealing the jar. Store it in a cool, dark place or refrigerate it. Properly stored ghee can last for several months.
Why Choose the Bilona Method?
The Bilona method is not just a recipe; it's a ritual. This traditional technique ensures that all the nutrients and the rich, authentic flavor of the ghee are preserved. Unlike commercially produced ghee, which often involves shortcuts and additives, Bilona ghee is pure, wholesome, and packed with the goodness of homemade love and care.
Enjoy your homemade ghee drizzled over warm rotis, in your favorite dal, or even in sweets. This golden nectar will surely add a touch of tradition and health to your meals. Happy cooking!