Niter Kebbeh (Spiced Ghee)

Ingredients

• 2 lbs unsalted butter (butter only)
• 1 small onion, coarsely chopped
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
• 1 teaspoon turmeric
• 1/2 teaspoon cardamom seed, crushed
• 1 cinnamon stick
• 2 whole cloves
• 1/8 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/4 teaspoon ground fenugreek
• 1 tablespoon fresh basil

Directions

1. 1

   In a heavy saucepan, heat butter very slowly over low heat until it has melted completely without any browning. Increase heat and bring melted butter to a boil just until top is covered with foam.

2. 2

   Stir in onion, garlic, ginger, turmeric, cardamom, cinnamon, clove nutmeg fenugreek seeds and basil. Lower heat to lowest possible setting, and simmer, uncovered, for 45 minutes. A clear layer of liquid will be at the top of the pan, and golden brown solids on the bottom.

3. 3

   Pour clear liquid into a jar, straining it through several layers of cheesecloth. Discard seasonings and solids. Cover tightly and store in refrigerator, or at room temperature.