Top 5 Questions Answered
Cooking oil is a staple in kitchens worldwide, but there are many questions about its use, health implications, and best practices. We’ve scoured the internet to find the top five questions asked about cooking oil and compiled our findings to clear up the confusion.
1. When Does Cooking Oil Go Bad?
Cooking oil doesn’t last forever. Its shelf life can vary from a few months to up to a year, depending on the type of oil, how it’s stored, and its exposure to light and heat. You can tell an oil has gone bad if it has a rancid or stale smell, a bitter taste, or if its colour has significantly darkened. To extend its shelf life, store oil in a cool, dark place and tightly seal it after each use.
2. Can Cooking Oil Be Reused?
Yes, but with caution. Reusing cooking oil is common, especially in commercial kitchens. However, it’s essential to strain it after each use to remove food particles that can spoil the oil. Reused oil should be stored properly and not be overheated or used more than 2-3 times. Keep in mind that each time oil is reused, its smoke point lowers and it becomes less stable, making it more susceptible to producing harmful compounds.
3. Which Cooking Oil is Good for Cholesterol?
Oils high in monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats are known to be better for cholesterol levels. Some of the best opinions to use for Indian Cooking are Sunflower Oil, Black Mustard oil, Sesame oil
4. Which Cooking Oil is Best for Frying?
The best cooking oils for frying are those with a high smoke point, ensuring the oil doesn’t break down and produce harmful compounds at frying temperatures. Peanut oil and sunflower oil are excellent choices for their neutral flavours and high smoke points, making them suitable for high-heat cooking methods like deep-frying.
5. Cooking Oil for Good Health?
For overall health, it’s best to opt for oils high in unsaturated fats while keeping those rich in saturated fats to a minimum. Olive oil, particularly extra virgin olive oil, stands out for its antioxidants and heart-friendly fats. Including mustard oil, sunflower oil, and soybean oil in your diet is also beneficial. Mustard oil, known for its omega-3 content, can support heart health. Sunflower oil, high in vitamin E and low in saturated fat, is great for overall wellness. Soybean oil offers a favourable omega-6 to omega-3 ratio, contributing to its heart-healthy profile. By integrating a variety of oils into your meals, you can enjoy a wide range of nutritional advantages.