Groundnut oil, also commonly referred to as peanut oil, is one of the most frequently used oils in frying. Versatile and cost-effective, cooking oil has lots of benefits; however, one major question pops up: Is groundnut oil safe for frying? In this blog post, we will address its safety, benefits, and tips on getting the best from frying.
What Makes Groundnut Oil Ideal for Frying?
Groundnut oil is very stable and, therefore, can be used for frying. It has a very high smoking point of about 450°F (232°C). This means it can withstand high temperatures without breaking down or producing harmful compounds. Frying at high temperatures is necessary to achieve crispy food, and groundnut oil performs exceptionally well in this regard.
Additionally, another benefit is that groundnut oil is abundant in unsaturated fats, which are healthier than saturated fats. The oil has monounsaturated fats that benefit the heart. Consequently, frying in groundnut oil can be considered to be healthier as compared to using other oils containing saturated fats.
Cold-Pressed Groundnut Oil: A Healthier Alternative
If you are in search of healthier alternatives, you may go for cold-pressed groundnut oil. In cold-pressing, all the natural nutrients and antioxidants remain intact in the oil. Compared to refined oils, cold-pressed oils don’t lose flavour and nutrients, making them great for those on a diet for health reasons who wish not to be part of the refining process.
Moreover, cold-pressed oils like cold-pressed groundnut oil do not contain any chemicals or additives that are harmful. This makes them a more natural and pure source of oil for cooking. So, when you fry with cold-pressed oils, you reap the benefits of its natural properties.
The Benefits of Using Groundnut Oil for Frying
Groundnut oil has several benefits when used for frying. First, it has a mild flavour that does not overpower the taste of the food. This makes it perfect for various dishes, including fries, snacks, and stir-fried meals.
Moreover, groundnut oil is also rich in vitamin E, which is an antioxidant that helps protect cells from damage. It also contains resveratrol, a compound known for its anti-inflammatory and heart-protective properties.
Furthermore, another advantage of using groundnut oil for frying is that it has a long shelf life. It remains fresh for a long time if stored properly. Thus, it can be used multiple times for frying without reducing its quality.
How to Get the Best Results While Frying with Groundnut Oil?
To get the best results when frying with groundnut oil, here are some simple tips to follow:
- Use a Thermometer: It is essential to use a cooking thermometer when using oil for frying. This helps in ascertaining whether the oil is hot enough to fry but not so hot that it burns the food.
- Do not overcrowd the pan: While frying, never put too many things in the pan at one time. Overcrowding the pan can make the oil temperature decrease, making your food greasy and soggy.
- Maintain the oil temperature: The temperature of the oil must be maintained while frying. If the temperature is lowered, then the food will absorb more oil. If the oil is heated too much, then the food may burn.
- Excess Oil: Place the food on a paper towel after frying. This reduces the oil content in the food and makes it less greasy.
- Storage of Oil: Once the groundnut oil has been used for frying, strain the oil to get rid of all food particles. Keep the oil in an airtight container in a cool, dark place.
Wood Pressed Oil: A Traditional Alternative
The latest extracted oil by modern technology, such as wood pressing, has received popularity among many health-conscious users. This does not resemble the cold-pressing of oil, but mechanical pressure is involved from wooden utensils, avoiding the loss of natural nutrients and flavours from using heat or chemicals during the process of extraction.
Wood-pressed oil is rich in antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals that are usually lost in refined oils. This means that wood-pressed oil can be healthier than refined groundnut oil. However, wood-pressed oil is expensive and hard to find in stores.
Final Thoughts: Is Groundnut Oil Safe for Frying?
Yes, groundnut oil is safe to fry in because of its good varieties. The high smoking point, mild flavour, and nutrient-dense are what make groundnut oil one of the best choices for frying. Besides, by using cold-pressed or wood-pressed oils, you get a healthier and more natural experience with cooking.
Therefore, in case you wish to have the best out of frying, it would be essential to adhere to the suggestions made above. In this respect, you could confidently use either cold-pressed groundnut oil or wood-pressed oil and enjoy your fried food without compromising taste and health.
