Meet the Makers Mini Interview: OG GHEE
/
Mini Interview: OG GHEE
Get inspired by this month’s interview with Vresh Naga from OG Ghee. He and his best friend Thomas turned a career setback into the starting point for their successful business—a line of caramelized ghee made from Canadian butter. They channeled their positive energy and passion into products that pay homage to Vresh’s South Asian heritage and Thomas’s food-based family traditions. With a lot of hard work and a good dose of fun, OG Ghee started to gain a foodie following and is now a breakout hit. Let’s hear how it all began.
Share your story with us in 150 words or less
OG GHEE started as a passion project that grew out of a love for cooking and a desire to create something truly special. After being laid off during the 2020 lockdown, my best friend Thomas and I pivoted from running Canada’s first Indian meal-kit program to focusing solely on ghee due to high customer demand. Despite regulatory challenges, we worked hard to certify our product as shelf-stable and officially launched in 2022. Today, OG GHEE is available in over 300 stores, and we continue to grow nationally. Our mission is simple: to create a superior, caramelized ghee using 100% Canadian butter, while celebrating the richness of South Asian culture. Every jar of OG GHEE is a reflection of the hard work, dedication, and just a little bit of goofiness that we’ve poured into the business since day one.
The journey from conceiving an idea to establishing a small business is a lot of work! When did it first sink in for you that ‘this is really happening’?
It hit me when I saw OG GHEE on the shelves of our first retailer. That moment of walking into the store and physically seeing our product—it was surreal. It wasn’t just a dream anymore. After months of battling regulations and refining our process, seeing the product in a store made all the grind worth it. That’s when I knew this was real, and we had something special in our hands.
Out of all your products, which is your personal favourite and why?
Our signature OG is hands-down my favourite. It’s the versatility —whether you’re cooking, baking, or even just spreading it on toast, it brings a unique flavour to every dish. I do have a soft spot for the chai spice, because secretly, it’s also the only other product that has both savoury and sweet applications!
What motivates you on a day-to-day basis?
Knowing that OG GHEE is more than just a product—it’s a way to share a piece of my heritage and culture with people across Canada. Seeing the positive feedback from customers and knowing that we’re building something meaningful keeps me going every day. Plus, as a not-so closeted ADHD-er, I’m motivated by the challenge. Entrepreneurship isn’t easy, but that’s exactly why it’s worth it. Overcoming obstacles and watching the business grow fuels my drive.
What’s your favourite thing about the town or city you live in?
Calgary’s friendly and entrepreneurial vibe. There’s a sense of community and support that’s really special here. The city is a great mix of innovation and tradition, and it’s inspiring to be surrounded by other creators and business owners who are just as passionate and motivated. Plus, we’re so close to nature—it’s the perfect balance.
Describe your ideal Sunday morning, including your breakfast.
An ideal Sunday morning starts slow, with a good cup of coffee and some quiet time. For breakfast, it’s got to be sourdough toast with a generous spread of OG GHEE, maybe topped with a fried egg and some fresh herbs. Simple, satisfying, and full of flavor. And if I can enjoy it outside, soaking in the sunshine, even better!
What are your personal top three tips for feeling amazing?
1. Stay active—whether it’s walking my dog, having a dance party with my daughter or shoveling snow/gardening , it’s really important to stay mobile in this tech-era.
2. Eat well and mindfully—fuel your body with quality, whole foods (and LOTS ghee, of course!).
3. Make time for things that are OUT of your comfort zone - not everything is supposed to be fun and smiles. Sometimes it’s the things that SUCK today, but pay off in scores TOMORROW.
OG GHEE: On Their Website | On Instagram | On Facebook