Cooking oil is a vital ingredient in every kitchen. It influences the flavour, texture, and nutritional value of food. With so many options available, choosing the right oil can be overwhelming. Some oils are best for frying, while others work well in dressings or baking. The key is understanding their smoke points, health benefits, and suitable uses.
This blog explores different types of cooking oil and how to use them for maximum flavour and nutrition.
List of different types of cooking oil
Different types of oil vary in taste, nutrition, and cooking applications. Each has a unique smoke point, which makes it ideal for specific methods like frying, roasting, or drizzling.
Olive oil:
- Ideal for salads, sautéing, and roasting.
- Drizzle over salads for a fresh taste, use for light frying, or brush onto vegetables before roasting.
Vegetable oil:
- A neutral option suitable for frying, baking, and general cooking.
- Use it for deep-frying crispy snacks, making moist cakes, or stir-frying vegetables.
Coconut oil:
- Adds a slight sweetness, best for baking, frying, and Asian cuisine.
- Use in baked goods for a rich texture, fry pancakes for a crisp edge, or stir into curries for depth.
Sunflower oil:
- High in vitamin E, great for frying and deep-frying due to its high smoke point.
- Ideal for making crispy fried foods, roasting potatoes, or cooking stir-fries.
Sesame oil:
- Used in stir-fries and dressings for a rich, aromatic taste.
- Add a few drops to stir-fried vegetables, drizzle over soups, or mix into marinades for extra flavour.
Ghee (clarified butter):
- Popular in Indian cooking for its buttery taste and high smoke point.
- Use for preparing rotis, sautéing spices for curries, or adding richness to rice dishes.
Mustard oil:
- Strong-flavoured and antimicrobial, used in Indian cooking and pickling.
- Heat until smoking before using for cooking, add to pickles for preservation or drizzle over dishes for a sharp kick.
Conclusion
Choosing the right types of oils enhances the taste and nutrition of your meals. However, even with the healthiest diet, unexpected health issues can arise. Cooking injuries, high cholesterol, or food-related illnesses can lead to medical expenses. Thus, a good health insurance policy can provide financial security. Investing in health insurance for family ensures peace of mind, knowing you are covered for unforeseen health concerns.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this blog is for educational and informational purposes only. It is not intended as a substitute for professional advice, diagnosis or treatment. Please consult a certified medical and/or nutrition professional for any questions. Relying on any information provided in this blog is solely at your own risk, and ICICI Lombard is not responsible for any effects or consequences resulting from the use of the information shared.