Indian cooking requires oil. It not only keeps food from sticking to the pots and pans, but our oils also play a role in the overall flavor of the end product. It is key to use the right oil while cooking.
More often than not, it has been observed that people from a certain region of the country are used to using a particular type of oil and so the recipes are also tailored to taste the best with these oils only. For example, coconut oil is used in almost all South Indian dishes and these dishes do not taste the same without it. Oils also add to the nutrient content of the food.
The recent times have seen people move more and more towards cold-pressed or virgin oils. As people grow more and more health-conscious, the move towards unadulterated and 100% organic oils and food products has become more prominent. The following are our top picks for the oils best suited for Indian cooking.
Table of Contents
Best Picks Of Oils For Cooking
1. Coco Guru Cold Press Coconut Oil
Dry copra pieces are pressed to extract oil without any heat. The oil is also double filtered with the help of a filter press. The oil is clear with a slight yellow tinge. It has a pleasant taste with the copra smell. The liquid solidifies at lower temperatures.
This oil is perfect for pan-frying, deep-frying, sauteing, etc. Coconut oil is great for south Indian cooking and dishes. The oil can also be used for body massages, hair oiling or even for raw consumption.
2. Borges Extra Virgin Olive Oil
Olive oil is rich in monounsaturated fats. It is a good alternative to ghee or butter. It has many anti-inflammatory properties and may help with heart disease, diabetes and Alzheimer’s. It is a healthy oil and can easily be incorporated in your regular cooking. You can also add it as a dressing for your salads.
The Borges Olive oil is made with high-quality olives cultivated in the Mediterranean region and has the original taste and aroma. The bottle is made of glass and not plastic which is a big plus.
3. Anjali Cold Pressed Gingelly / Sesame Oil
Anjali cold pressed sesame oil is free from trans fat and preservatives. It has a slightly nutty taste that perfectly aides fried dishes and salad dressings. This sesame oil comes in a 1-liter pouch and it is advisable to keep this at a dry place away from heat.
4. Del Monte Extra Virgin Olive Oil
This olive oil is prepared by thorough processing of olives following a cold extraction process. It comes with a nice flavor and aroma. The oil comes in a 1-liter bottle.
Whether you are deep frying or just sauteing or even making a curry, the oil you choose can completely decide how your food is going to taste. While some dishes taste really good when using something as strong as a mustard oil, others require something milder. So choose your cooking oil accordingly.
