Fat washing : Why Ghee is one of my favorite ingredients for this technique
Fat washing sounds like a random technique that may be too complicated to try, but when done right, you are left with a spirit that has depth and aroma.
What is fat washing?
Fat washing is a technique where warm fat is combined with alcohol, allowed to infuse for a few hours, then chilled in the freezer so the fat solidifies and can be strained out. This process results in a spirit that’s smoother, richer, and more expressive.
Why I love ghee for this technique?
Ghee is one of my favorite fats to work with for a few reasons.
Ghee is already clarified. Unlike butter, the milk solids are already removed from ghee. This means a better infusion and cleaner flavor.
Ghee brings a subtle nuttiness and savory richness to spirits like cognac, whiskey, and rum.
Want to try this technique at home?
You’ll need:
Your spirit (bourbon, Cognac, or rum work great)
3–4 tablespoons ghee
A freezer
Coffee filter or fine strainer
How to do it:
Melt ghee until just liquid (don’t brown it).
Pour the warm ghee into the spirit and give it a gentle shake.
Let it sit at room temperature for 4–6 hours.
Transfer to the freezer overnight until the ghee fully solidifies.
Break the fat cap and strain the liquid through a coffee filter.
Store your ghee-washed spirit in the fridge or freezer.
How I like to use ghee washed spirits?
Balance in citrus forward cocktails
Silky and smooth mouthfeel when drinking spirit forward cocktails
For me, working with ghee behind the bar isn’t about trends. It’s about translating the ingredients I grew up with into modern mixology, one sip at a time.
Cheers,
Soni
