This post first appeared on Piping Rock. All content is theirs.
These options taste better and are better for you.
Think about your pantry at home -- what's in it? We're going to guess vegetable oil would make the list. This oil has been a classic, go-to cooking oil for most people for years. However, it isn't the healthiest choice. There are far better alternatives on the market to use, and we're going to give you a rundown on all of them.
Coconut Oil
Ah, coconut oil. The way you smell, and the endless uses you bring. Who isn't a fan of this tropical delight? If not familiar with the many ways coconut oil can be used in the household, check out this post on life hacks first-- guaranteed to inspire and save you money.
Now, let's discuss the oil.
Coconut Oil is made from pressing the meat of the coconut. The result is a liquid that can turn to solid in colder temperatures, and liquid in hotter temperatures. It touts a profile full of MCTs or medium chain triglycerides. These are good-for-you fats, utilized by the body to make things move.
To enjoy the benefits of Coconut Oil, there are a few ways to use it in the kitchen.
- Add a teaspoon into a smoothie bowl. It'll add a subtle taste and boost the consistency of the bowl. Nutrients in an instant.
- Ditch butter when cooking eggs and throw a tablespoon of coconut oil on the skillet instead. It'll give a lighter texture and make you feel less greasy after eating!
Flaxseed Oil
Surely you've familiarized yourself with the small, tan, oblong seeds by now, but what about the oil? Flaxseed oil comes from cold-pressing the seeds into a viscous liquid. The seeds are sourced from the flax plant which blooms annually with purple flowers.
As an oil, it contains a dense amount of omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids. It's a popular choice among those living a vegan/vegetarian lifestyle since it can supplement the omega's given from fish or meat sources.
To get the delicious benefits of Flaxseed Oil, you can do the following:
- Add 1 tablespoon into a protein shake to give it a boost of omegas.
- Add a tablespoon into a sauce or dressing recipe to give a nutritional edge.
Avocado Oil
When it comes to avocados, it seems like the kitchen is their place to shine. From smashed avocado toast to avocado chocolate brownies...they are versatile and delicious. So, it comes as no surprise that in oil form, they bring a burst of uses too.
Avocado oil is sourced from the tree by the same name in Peru and Mexico. When the fruit is cold-pressed the result is a light oil.
If you want to start using avocado oil, here's a few ways to:
- Mix into a dressing or sauces.
- Add a tablespoon into homemade soups for added nutrients.
Sunflower Seed Oil
Now, let's talk sunflower seed oil. Naturally, we saved the best for last.
Derived from the sunflower, this oil comes from cold-pressing the seeds to produce a fragrance-free, clear liquid. The oil is high in omega-6 linoleic acid, omega-9, and vitamins A, D, E.
The light oil makes for a perfect addition to any wannabe chef’s kitchen. Here’s one way to enjoy the oil next time you whip together a meal:
- Instead of making a stir fry with vegetable oil, substitute with sunflower seed oil. It’ll be packed with nutrients and less greasy!