Learn More About Purchasing the Peanut Oils
What is Peanut Oil?
Peanut oil, also known as groundnut oil or arachis oil, is a vegetable oil derived from peanuts. It is commonly used in American and Chinese cuisine for frying and as a salad dressing.
Why Choose Peanut Oil?
Peanut oil has a high smoke point of 450°F, making it suitable for high-heat cooking methods such as stir-frying and deep-frying. It also has a neutral flavor, allowing the natural flavor of the food to shine through. In addition, peanut oil is a good source of heart-healthy monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats.
Types of Peanut Oils
When shopping for peanut oil, you will likely encounter three main types: refined, unrefined, and cold-pressed.
Refined Peanut Oil
Refined peanut oil is the most common type found in grocery stores. It is made from peanuts that have been roasted and then mechanically pressed to extract the oil. The oil is then refined, bleached, and deodorized to remove impurities and unwanted flavors. Refined peanut oil has a high smoke point and a neutral flavor, making it suitable for high-heat cooking and frying.
Unrefined Peanut Oil
Unrefined peanut oil, also known as "crude" or "raw" peanut oil, is made from peanuts that have been mechanically pressed without the use of heat or chemicals. It has a lower smoke point and a stronger, more pronounced peanut flavor than refined peanut oil. Unrefined peanut oil is best used in dishes where its flavor can shine, such as marinades or dressings.
Cold-Pressed Peanut Oil
Cold-pressed peanut oil is made by mechanically pressing peanuts without the use of heat. It has a lower smoke point and a strong, nutty flavor. Because it is not exposed to heat during the extraction process, cold-pressed peanut oil retains more of its natural antioxidants and nutrients. It is best used in salad dressings or as a finishing oil.
Choosing the Right Peanut Oil
When choosing a peanut oil, consider the type of cooking you will be doing and the flavor profile you are looking for. For high-heat cooking and frying, refined peanut oil is the best choice because of its high smoke point and neutral flavor. If you want a more pronounced peanut flavor, unrefined or cold-pressed peanut oil is a better option.
In terms of quality, look for peanut oils that are expeller-pressed or cold-pressed, as these methods use mechanical means to extract the oil without the use of chemicals or heat. Avoid peanut oils that are made from roasted peanuts, as they may have a burnt or bitter flavor.
When it comes to price, keep in mind that the best peanut oils are often more expensive. This is because they are made from high-quality peanuts and use careful extraction methods to preserve flavor and nutrients. However, a higher price doesn't always guarantee a better product, so be sure to read labels and ingredient lists carefully.
In conclusion, choosing the right peanut oil depends on your cooking needs and personal preferences. Whether you opt for refined, unrefined, or cold-pressed, make sure to select a high-quality oil for the best flavor and health benefits.