Cody Casey
Coconut oil is a popular choice for cooking due to its health benefits and high smoke point. But how long does it last in a deep fryer? Coconut oil can handle high temperatures, making it a great choice for deep frying. It has a smoke point of 350°F, higher than most other common oils. Refined coconut oil is best for deep frying as it can withstand temperatures up to 400°F. The ideal temperature for deep frying with coconut oil is between 325 and 375°F. It's important to monitor the colour of the oil and use it within 1-2 months. Additionally, coconut oil should not be reused after frying.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Smoke point | 350°F for unrefined, 400°F for refined, 400°F-450°F for refined according to one source |
| Reuse | Should be replaced after 6-8 uses, or within 1-2 months |
| Storage | Store in a sealed container, in a cool, dry place |
| Saturated fat content | 90% |
| Polyunsaturated fat content | 2% |
| Calories | 120 per tablespoon |
What You'll Learn
Coconut oil's high smoke point
Coconut oil is a great option for deep frying due to its high smoke point. The smoke point of an oil is the temperature at which it begins to overheat and produce smoke, toxic fumes, and free radicals. For reference, the ideal temperature for deep frying is around 350–375°F (176–190°C).
The smoke point of coconut oil depends on whether it is refined or unrefined. Refined coconut oil has a smoke point of around 400°F (204°C), while the unrefined version has a smoke point of approximately 350°F (177°C). This makes refined coconut oil a better option for deep frying, as it can withstand higher temperatures without breaking down.
The high smoke point of coconut oil, especially the refined variety, means that it can handle the heat of deep frying without releasing harmful compounds. This is because coconut oil has a high saturated fat content, with over 90% of its fatty acids being saturated. This makes it more stable at high temperatures and less likely to react with oxygen when heated.
In addition to its high smoke point, coconut oil also has a neutral flavour, especially the refined variety, making it a good choice for deep frying as it won't overpower the taste of the food.
However, it is important to note that while coconut oil has a high smoke point, it is still important to monitor the temperature when deep frying. This is to ensure that the oil doesn't exceed its smoke point and to maintain optimal frying conditions. Using a candy thermometer or a deep fryer with a heating dial can help with this.
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Refined vs unrefined coconut oil
Coconut oil is a great choice for deep frying as it has a high smoke point and is stable at high temperatures. It is also a healthy option as it is a good source of fatty acids and has a composition of mostly saturated fat, which is more stable when heated.
When choosing coconut oil for deep frying, there are two types to consider: refined and unrefined. Refined coconut oil has been through a process to remove impurities, resulting in a more stable product with a neutral flavour. Its smoke point is around 400°F, making it ideal for high-temperature frying. This type of coconut oil is recommended for deep frying as it can withstand the heat without compromising the quality or flavour of the oil or the food.
On the other hand, unrefined coconut oil has a lower smoke point of approximately 350°F. This means it is not suitable for deep frying as it will burn at high temperatures and leave an unpleasant taste. Unrefined coconut oil is better suited to normal frying or sautéing, where the temperature is lower. It is also a good choice for baking or as a spread due to its rich flavour and aroma.
When deep frying with coconut oil, it is important to maintain the temperature between 325°F and 375°F. Using a candy thermometer or a deep fryer with a heating dial will help you monitor the temperature and prevent the oil from reaching its smoke point.
In summary, refined coconut oil is the best choice for deep frying due to its high smoke point, neutral flavour, and stability at high temperatures. Unrefined coconut oil, while a great option for other cooking methods, is not recommended for deep frying because of its lower smoke point and stronger flavour.
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How to store coconut oil
Coconut oil is best stored in a cool, dry, dark place, such as a cupboard or pantry, and away from direct sunlight. The ideal temperature for storing coconut oil is below 24°C (75°F).
Coconut oil has a long shelf life of around two years, possibly longer for unrefined or virgin coconut oil. It does not need to be refrigerated, but it can be stored in the fridge if preferred. However, refrigeration will cause the oil to solidify, and it will take longer to melt and be absorbed into the skin for skincare purposes.
To extend the shelf life of coconut oil, it is recommended to store it in an airtight container in the freezer. It is also important to always use clean utensils when handling the oil to prevent the introduction of bacteria.
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How to dispose of coconut oil
Coconut oil is a versatile product with a variety of uses, from cooking to skincare. However, when it comes to disposal, it's important to do so correctly and in an environmentally friendly way. Here is a detailed guide on how to dispose of coconut oil:
Let it solidify
Coconut oil solidifies at room temperature. If it has turned solid, simply scrape the contents into a trash can. This makes disposal much safer and easier than when it is in a liquid state.
Reuse
Coconut oil has numerous benefits for skin and hair, so consider reusing it for beauty purposes instead of throwing it away. You can also drink it by adding some to your tea or coffee for a boost of healthy fats and a delicious tropical flavour.
Compost
If you have a home composting system, coconut oil is a valuable addition. It will break down naturally and add nutrients to the soil.
Trash
If you decide to throw away your coconut oil, always double-bag it in plastic before disposal. Coconut oil can leak out of regular garbage bags, so ensure it is properly sealed. It is recommended to let the oil cool and solidify before placing it in the trash.
Do not pour down the drain
Never pour coconut oil down the drain or flush it down the toilet. Doing so can clog pipes and lead to costly plumbing repairs. It can also pollute surrounding waterways.
Recycle the container
After scraping out solidified coconut oil, wash the container and recycle it if possible.
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Coconut oil's health benefits
Coconut oil is a popular cooking oil that has gained traction in recent years due to its purported health benefits. While it is high in saturated fat, it has a high smoke point, making it ideal for deep frying. Here are some of the potential health benefits of coconut oil:
May Encourage Fat Burning and Work as a Quick Source of Energy
Coconut oil is rich in medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs), a type of saturated fat that can be quickly absorbed and used by the body for energy. MCTs are absorbed directly from the small intestine into the bloodstream and can be used for energy in a similar way to carbohydrates. This makes them a popular choice for athletes and can potentially aid in weight loss, although more research is needed to confirm this.
May Have Antimicrobial and Antifungal Properties
The lauric acid in coconut oil, which makes up about 50% of its MCT content, is believed to have antimicrobial and antifungal properties. Studies suggest that lauric acid may act as a bacteriostatic agent, preventing bacteria from multiplying, and as a bacteriocidal agent, destroying certain types of bacteria. It may also help inhibit the growth of microorganisms that are harmful to plants.
May Help Lessen Hunger
MCTs have been found to increase feelings of fullness and reduce food intake. This may be due to the way the body breaks down MCTs, producing molecules called ketones that can reduce appetite by acting on the brain's chemical messengers or altering hunger-inducing hormones. However, there is no evidence that coconut oil reduces appetite more than other oils.
May Improve Oral Health
Oil pulling, or swishing coconut oil in the mouth like mouthwash, has been found to significantly reduce the count of harmful bacteria in the mouth, thanks to its antibacterial properties. Additionally, lauric acid reacts with saliva to form a soap-like substance that helps prevent cavities and reduce dental plaque buildup and gum inflammation.
May Boost Skin and Hair Health
Coconut oil can be used to improve skin and hair health. It can boost the moisture content of dry skin and improve skin function, helping to prevent water loss and protect against external factors. It also penetrates hair strands, making them more flexible and stronger, reducing breakage.
May Help Reduce Symptoms of Alzheimer's Disease
Alzheimer's disease reduces the brain's ability to use glucose for energy. However, the ketones produced when the body digests coconut oil can provide an alternative energy source for brain cells, potentially helping to reduce the symptoms of Alzheimer's disease.
A Good Antioxidant Source
Coconut oil contains antioxidants that help neutralise free radicals, reducing the risk of chronic and degenerative diseases. These antioxidants have potential anti-inflammatory and brain-protective effects and may also play a role in reducing secondary diabetic complications.
While coconut oil has these potential health benefits, it is important to consume it in moderation as part of a balanced diet. It is high in saturated fat, which can increase LDL (bad) cholesterol levels and the risk of heart disease. The American Heart Association recommends limiting saturated fat intake to less than 10% of daily calorie intake.
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Frequently asked questions
Coconut oil can be reused several times. Monitor the colour of the oil and use it within 1-2 months if possible. However, it's important to note that coconut oil will eventually break down and need to be replaced.
Some signs that indicate it's time to replace the coconut oil in your deep fryer include foam on the oil's surface when it is hot, an unusual odour, and excessive smoke.
To increase the lifespan of coconut oil in a deep fryer, use a thermostat to monitor the oil temperature and avoid overheating. Fry battered foods instead of breaded foods, as these release more debris and impurities that can break down the oil.
