Indians love to save money a lot. It becomes more important, especially when food prices are increasing. And with rising food prices, cooking must be strategic. One everyday kitchen essential that can significantly impact your monthly budget is cooking oil. While premium oils often grab attention, many affordable Indian oils offer great taste, versatility, and suitability for daily cooking.
Here are the top 5 best quality cooking oils at a low cost:
1. Mustard Oil
Mustard oil has been used in meals for generations, especially in North and East India. It remains budget-friendly in India due to strong domestic production from rapeseed-mustard seeds.
Why it’s a smart budget choice:
- It is generally priced lower than imported oils
- It has a strong aroma, which means less oil is needed for cooking.
- It handles high-heat cooking like frying, tadka, and making parathas.
Best for: Indian curries, sabzis, dals, pickles, and deep-frying.
2. Sunflower Oil
Sunflower oil is known for its light and neutral texture. It is one of the most commonly used oils in India, followed by mustard and soybean oil.
Why it works on a budget:
- Easily available in economical packs
- Its neutral taste suits a wide variety of dishes.
- It can be a good option for shallow frying.
Best for: Indian curries, sabzis, dals, pickles, and deep-frying.
3. Soybean Oil
Soybean oil is often one of the most economical options in the market. It is known for its cost-effectiveness. India produces millions of tons annually, which reduces import dependency compared to palm oil (60% imported), with government duties favouring local output for cost stability.
Why it’s budget-friendly:
- Lower price point compared to many other oils
- Light flavour works with most cuisines
- Suitable for bulk cooking and large families
Best for: General cooking, frying, and large-quantity food preparation
4. Groundnut Oil
While slightly higher in price than some oils, groundnut oil is still considered affordable when used wisely.
Why it offers good value:
- Enhances flavour, especially in South and West Indian dishes
- Stable at high temperatures
Best for: Dosas, chutneys, deep-fried snacks, and traditional recipes
Oils to Use Sparingly on a Budget
Some oils, though healthy, may not be ideal for everyday budget cooking:
- Olive oil – It is expensive, but it works better for salads and low-heat cooking.
- Avocado oil – It has a high cost and has limited use in Indian cooking.
You can use these oils occasionally rather than daily. It will keep your expenses in check.
Tips to Save Money on Cooking Oil
- Buy larger packs for better per-litre pricing. It not only reduces cost but also saves the environment by minimising the number of bottles you would otherwise use.
Measure oil with spoons rather than pouring. It helps in taking note of calories while also saving money. - Use oils suited to high heat, such as mustard and soybean oil, to avoid wastage.
- Store oil properly to prevent spoilage.
Conclusion
Cooking smart on a budget doesn’t mean compromising on taste or tradition. India offers a variety of low-cost, locally produced cooking oils that are perfectly suited for everyday meals. Choosing the best low-cost oils like mustard, sunflower, soybean, or groundnut oil can help you manage expenses while enjoying delicious, home-cooked food.
A thoughtful choice in the kitchen can go a long way, both for your wallet and your cooking.
