Oils

When choosing to purchase a cooking oil, people tend to jump to what they know. If their relatives use canola oil, thats what they buy. If their best friend uses toasted sesame seed oil, they turn to that. This instinctive follow the leader behavior isn't bad; you are following techniques that are tried and true. But do some research before you buy your oils, because depending on how often you cook and what you cook, different oils will suit your different needs. I also added a handy dandy Oil Chart for you!!!


Plant vs. Animal: PLANT

In almost every single case*, plant oils are healthier than animal fats. Plants come straight from the ground, so their oils are less processed than that of an animal. And to make sure you are getting the best plant oils possible, try to get organic oils, pesticides are fat-soluble. But if you're going to end up using the oil for coking, you don't need to stress so much about organic vs. non organic.

*non hydrogenated lard and duck fat are actually healthier than grape seed oil, because grape seen oil is super high in Omega-6 (BAD STUFF).


Hydrogenated vs. Non-Hydrogenated: NON-HYDROGENATED

Hydrogenated and refined oils/fats are always worse for you than their opposites. In fact, refined coconut oil is one of the most unhealthy oils while UN-refined coconut oil is one of the healthiest. The refining process allows certain oils to burn longer at higher temperatures, but it strips them of their nutrients and adds nasty chemicals. The worst oil though is partially hydrogenated oil, better known as trans-fat. It kills, like really kills you over time. Lesson learned: avoid processed oils at all costs, because they will clog up your arteries and kill you.


So those are the basics. Yup, after these easy steps, oils branch off in every direction. Some lend themselves better to cooking, others better to dressings. And then you need to factor in allergies, taste preferences, cooking utilizing, etc. My personal favorite is olive oil, one of the healthiest oils ever, but thats just me. So test, explore, broaden your horizons! But as always, "stay healthy my friends".


AGAIN HERE IS THE Oil Chart : I found this on http://smallbites.andybellatti.com/handy-dandy-cooking-oil-comparison-chart/