How Many Calories Are in 1 Spoon of Desi Ghee?

December 9, 2025 •

3 min read

One tablespoon of Desi ghee contains approximately 112 to 130 calories, depending on the source and preparation. These calories come almost entirely from fat, but the key to its health impact lies in the type of fat and the nutrients it contains, which is crucial for those watching their diet.

Quick Summary

This guide breaks down the calorie count in a teaspoon and tablespoon of Desi ghee, detailing its complete nutritional profile, including fatty acids and essential vitamins. It covers the health benefits, the preparation method, and how to incorporate this clarified butter into a balanced diet for overall wellness and weight management.

Key Points

Tablespoon Calories: A single tablespoon of Desi ghee contains approximately 112 to 130 calories.
Teaspoon Calories: A teaspoon of Desi ghee has a calorie count ranging from 42 to 45 calories.
Composition: Ghee is almost 100% pure fat, with all its calories derived from healthy fats, not carbs or protein.
Nutrient Rich: It is a good source of fat-soluble vitamins (A, D, E, K) and contains beneficial butyric acid for gut health.
High Smoke Point: Due to the clarification process, ghee has a high smoke point, making it excellent for high-heat cooking.
Moderation is Key: Despite its health benefits, its high calorie and fat content mean it should be consumed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.

Desi Ghee: Calorie Count by the Spoon

For anyone monitoring their nutritional intake, understanding the calorie content of cooking fats is vital. Desi ghee, or Indian-style clarified butter, is a staple in South Asian cuisine, renowned for its rich, nutty flavor and high smoke point. However, it is also a calorie-dense food. The number of calories in 1 spoon of Desi ghee depends on the size of the spoon: a teaspoon or a tablespoon.

The Calorie Difference: Teaspoon vs. Tablespoon

While 'a spoon' is a common unit of measurement, the difference in calorie count between a teaspoon and a tablespoon is significant. A standard teaspoon of Desi ghee, which weighs about 4.7 grams, contains approximately 42 to 45 calories. On the other hand, a standard tablespoon, around 13 to 15 grams, packs a more substantial 112 to 130 calories. This concentration of calories is due to ghee's composition; it is almost 100% pure fat, with negligible amounts of protein or carbohydrates.

The Nutritional Profile of Desi Ghee

Beyond the raw calorie count, the health benefits of Desi ghee are tied to its specific nutrient makeup. When consumed in moderation, it can be a valuable part of a healthy diet. The key components include:

Healthy Fats: Ghee is rich in healthy fatty acids, including monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats, as well as saturated fat. Importantly, it also contains conjugated linoleic acid (CLA), which research suggests may help with weight management.
Fat-Soluble Vitamins: Desi ghee is an excellent source of fat-soluble vitamins A, D, E, and K. These are crucial for various bodily functions, from immune support (Vitamin A) to bone health (Vitamin K).
Butyric Acid: Ghee is rich in butyric acid, a short-chain fatty acid that is beneficial for gut health. It helps support the lining of the intestines and can aid in digestion.
Antioxidants: The antioxidants present in ghee help fight free radicals in the body, reducing oxidative stress and contributing to overall cellular health.

How Desi Ghee is Made

Desi ghee is traditionally made through a process of simmering butter to separate the milk solids and water from the pure butterfat. This process, known as clarification, gives ghee its high smoke point, which is higher than that of regular butter. This makes it an ideal cooking medium for high-heat methods like sautéing and deep-frying without breaking down into harmful free radicals. The long, slow heating process also gives desi ghee its characteristic rich, nutty flavor, unlike the milder flavor of industrially produced ghee.

Desi Ghee vs. Other Fats: A Comparison

To put Desi ghee's calorie density into perspective, it's helpful to compare it with other common cooking fats. This can help you make informed decisions based on your dietary needs.


Feature	Desi Ghee	Butter	Vegetable Oil
Calories per Tbsp	~120-130 kcal	~102 kcal	~120 kcal
Fat Content per Tbsp	13-15 grams	~11 grams	~14 grams
Lactose/Casein	Trace amounts (clarified)	Present	None
Smoke Point	High (~485°F/252°C)	Low (~350°F/177°C)	Varies by oil, but generally high
Butyric Acid	Yes, rich source	Yes, but less concentrated	None

Incorporating Ghee into a Balanced Diet

Because of its high calorie count, moderation is key when incorporating Desi ghee into your diet. Instead of using large quantities, think of it as a flavoring agent or a nutrient booster. A spoonful on warm roti, a drizzle over dal, or using it as a high-heat cooking oil for vegetables can add flavor and aid in the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins without overdoing the calories. It's especially beneficial in winter preparations to help the body stay warm and boost immunity.

Conclusion: The Final Verdict on Calories in 1 Spoon of Desi Ghee

So, how many calories are in 1 spoon of Desi ghee? A standard tablespoon contains approximately 112 to 130 calories, while a teaspoon has around 42 to 45 calories. Though high in calories, Desi ghee is also rich in healthy fats, essential vitamins, and butyric acid, which supports gut health and enhances nutrient absorption. When consumed in moderation, this traditional ingredient can be a beneficial and flavorful part of a healthy diet, far from being the unhealthy food some perceive it to be. The key is mindful consumption to reap its numerous benefits without overindulging. For more information on the health aspects of ghee, consult a nutritionist or visit a reliable health and nutrition source like the one from WebMD(https://www.webmd.com/diet/ghee-good-for-you).

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, when consumed in moderation, desi ghee is considered healthy. Its calories come from beneficial fats like butyric acid and CLA, which support gut health, enhance metabolism, and provide essential fat-soluble vitamins.

Yes, there can be slight variations. Ghee made from buffalo milk can have a slightly different nutritional profile and higher fat content than that from cow's milk, which can affect the final calorie count per serving.

Yes, in moderation. Some studies suggest that the CLA found in desi ghee can help with weight management by increasing metabolism and burning fat. It also promotes satiety, helping to manage portion control.

Desi ghee refers to ghee made using traditional, often artisanal methods, such as the 'bilona' method of churning curd. This process can yield a more aromatic and nutrient-rich product than commercially produced, or 'regular', ghee.

Because the milk solids have been removed, desi ghee is shelf-stable. You can store it in an airtight container at room temperature in a cool, dark place for a few months. For longer storage, it can be refrigerated.

Yes. The process of clarifying the butter removes nearly all lactose and casein (milk protein) content. This makes desi ghee a safe fat option for most individuals with lactose intolerance or a dairy sensitivity.

A single teaspoon of desi ghee contains approximately 42 to 45 calories, primarily from its fat content.