I thought it would be fun to take a minute to talk about oils. No two oils are created equally. 🙂
When choosing just the right oil to cook with you want to consider both the health aspects of the oil, and the cooking properties. Some oils obviously work better than others in both aspects, while others leave something to be desired in one or the other. Learn a little more about the different oils as you make your choice about which one (or more) to cook with.
There are two things about oil that make it healthy, and make it good to cook with. You want to consume and cook with oils that have resistance to oxidation. Oxidation is definitely not something you want as that process means the oils have gone rancid and reacted with oxygen. This forms free radicals and other harmful compounds that you don’t want to put into your body.
The saturated fats factor for the oil affects the oxidation. The degree of saturation of the fatty acids within that particular oil will determine the oxidation resistance of the oil. Oils with a higher concentration of saturated fats (as opposed to higher concentrations of monounsaturated or polyunsaturated fats) have higher resistance to oxidation.
Have I lost you yet? Don’t panic. I can explain more.
1. Let’s talk about Coconut Oil
Coconut oil is perhaps the best choice for cooking. Not only does coconut oil score high in saturated fats (over 90 percent is saturated fats) and low in both mono- and polyunsaturated fats, this is a very versatile oil to have on hand.
Coconut oil has wonderful properties for skin, nails, and hair and adds great flavor to your food. Coconut oil can also boost your metabolism and contains Lauric Acid which can help reduce cholesterol. Coconut oil also has antibacterial properties. This particular oil is semi-solid at room temperatures and can last for months without oxidizing.
2. Let’s talk about Olive Oil
Olive oil has been shown to raise good cholesterol and improve heart health, making it a good choice for keeping your ticker healthy. Extra virgin olive oil has the greatest health benefits with a high concentration of nutrients and antioxidants. Olive oil should be kept in a cool, dry place.
3. What about Real Butter?
Butter — the real stuff (not margarine)– has been maligned for many years, but it is actually a healthy choice for cooking. Real butter contains Vitamins A, E, and K2 and is also very rich in healthy fatty acids. Butter is very good for cooking with, but it can burn easily at high heats.
Other great choices of oils that are great took with include palm oil, avocado oil, and animal fats such as tallow, lard, or bacon drippings.
Knowing the best oils for cooking can help you make healthy choices for your family. These choices are stable when heated and offer great flavor and health properties for consumers. Personally I love to cook with coconut oil.
What is the best oil to cook with in your house?
Here are some more cooking tips:
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