Best Cooking Oils To Blend With Peanut Oil

Peanut oil is a versatile cooking oil with a high smoke point, making it ideal for frying and roasting. It is commonly used in commercial kitchens and is known for its neutral flavour. However, there are times when a substitute is needed, whether due to allergies, price, or simply for variety. So, what oils can you blend with peanut oil for cooking? Vegetable oil, canola oil, sunflower oil, and refined coconut oil are all suitable substitutes for peanut oil when cooking or frying. These oils have similar smoke points to peanut oil, ranging from 400-468°F, and their mild flavours won't overpower your dishes. For a nuttier flavour, almond or walnut oil can be used in place of unrefined peanut oil.

Vegetable oil

Peanut oil is a type of vegetable oil, but the term 'vegetable oil' is often used to refer to a blend of multiple plant oils. Commercial vegetable oil is typically sold as a mixture of different vegetable oils.

Canola oil

To store canola oil, keep it in a cool, dark place, away from direct sunlight and heat sources. It is best to keep it tightly sealed in its original container to prevent oxidation. Unopened canola oil has a shelf life of about two years, while once opened, it should be used within six months for the best quality and flavour.

Safflower oil

There are two varieties of safflower oil available: high-linoleic and high-oleic. The high-oleic variety is the more common type and is often used for fried foods due to its high smoke point of around 450°F (232°C). This smoke point is higher than that of other commonly used oils such as canola oil, making safflower oil suitable for high-temperature cooking methods like deep frying and stir-frying.

In addition to its culinary uses, safflower oil is also used in the cosmetic industry, particularly in skincare products. It has a mild flavour, making it a good choice for various cooking applications.

When it comes to health benefits, safflower oil is a rich source of unsaturated fatty acids, including monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats. These fats are considered more healthful than saturated fats and are essential for hormone regulation, memory, and the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins A, D, E, and K. Additionally, safflower oil may help improve blood sugar levels, lower cholesterol, and reduce the risk of heart disease.

However, it is important to note that safflower oil is not a low-calorie food, and excessive consumption of omega-6-rich fats like safflower oil can contribute to an imbalance in the dietary omega-6 to omega-3 ratio, which may negatively impact overall health. Therefore, it should be used sparingly and as part of a balanced diet.

Refined coconut oil

However, the refining process does remove some of the flavour of coconut oil, so it will not add the same depth of flavour to dishes as unrefined coconut oil. It is also much less pure than unrefined coconut oil, so it is not as close to what nature intended.

When choosing between refined and unrefined coconut oil, it ultimately comes down to personal preference and intended use. Refined coconut oil is better for high-temperature cooking, while unrefined coconut oil is better for lower-temperature cooking and for those who want a more pronounced coconut taste.

Sunflower oil

If you are blending sunflower oil with other oils, it is recommended to use a maximum of 20% sunflower oil in the blend. This is because sunflower oil is a polyunsaturated fat, and using more than 20% in a blend may affect the taste and consistency of the dish.

Frequently asked questions