1. Introduction to Cold Pressed Groundnut Oil

Cold pressed groundnut oil, also known as peanut oil, is a type of vegetable oil that is extracted from peanuts using a cold-pressing method. This method involves crushing the peanuts to extract the oil, without the use of heat or chemicals, which helps to preserve the oil’s natural flavor, aroma, and nutritional value.

Cold pressed groundnut oil is a rich source of monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats, which are considered to be healthy fats that can help lower cholesterol levels and reduce the risk of heart disease. It also contains vitamin E, which is an antioxidant that can help protect the body against free radicals and oxidative stress.

This oil has a mild, nutty flavor and a high smoke point, which makes it ideal for use in cooking and frying. It is commonly used in Indian, Chinese, and Southeast Asian cuisines, and can be used as a substitute for other cooking oils such as canola, soybean, and cotton seed oils.

Overall, cold pressed groundnut oil is a healthy and versatile cooking oil that can be used in a variety of dishes to add flavor and nutritional value.

2. Health Benefits of Cold Pressed Groundnut Oil

Cold pressed groundnut oil has a range of health benefits due to its unique nutritional profile. Here are some of the main health benefits of this oil:

Heart health: Cold pressed groundnut oil is a rich source of monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats, which are considered to be healthy fats that can help lower cholesterol levels and reduce the risk of heart disease.

Anti-inflammatory properties: The presence of polyunsaturated fats in cold pressed groundnut oil gives it anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce inflammation in the body and lower the risk of chronic diseases such as arthritis and cancer.

Antioxidant properties: Cold pressed groundnut oil contains vitamin E, which is an antioxidant that can help protect the body against free radicals and oxidative stress, which can lead to the development of chronic diseases.

Blood sugar control: Cold pressed groundnut oil has a low glycemic index, which means it can help regulate blood sugar levels and prevent spikes in blood sugar levels after meals.

Digestive health: Cold pressed groundnut oil contains fiber, which is important for digestive health and can help regulate bowel movements.

Skin health: The vitamin E present in cold pressed groundnut oil can also benefit skin health by protecting the skin from damage caused by free radicals and promoting healthy skin cell growth.

3. How to Use Cold Pressed Groundnut Oil?

Cold Pressed Groundnut Oil can be used for Cooking, baking, Salad dressings, Dips and sauces.

While cooking if you use 3tbsp of refined oils, cold pressed oils can be used 1.5tbsp because of its thick density.

Cooking: Cold pressed groundnut oil has a high smoke point, which means it can withstand high temperatures without breaking down or producing harmful compounds. This makes it a good choice for frying, sautéing, stir-frying, and other high-heat cooking methods.

Salad dressings: Cold pressed groundnut oil has a rich, nutty flavor that can add depth to salad dressings and marinades. It can be combined with vinegar, lemon juice, herbs, and spices to create a flavorful dressing for salads or marinade for meat or tofu.

Baking: Cold pressed groundnut oil can be used in baking as a substitute for butter or other oils. It works well in recipes for cakes, cookies, muffins, and other baked goods.

Dips and spreads: Cold pressed groundnut oil can be used to make dips and spreads like hummus, tahini, and peanut butter. It can also be drizzled over vegetables, pasta, and other dishes for added flavor and nutrition.

Seasoning: Cold pressed groundnut oil can be used to season dishes like stir-fried vegetables, soups, and stews. A small amount of oil can be added to the dish at the end of cooking to enhance the flavor and texture.

4. FAQs about Cold Pressed Groundnut Oil

1) What is cold pressed groundnut oil?

Cold pressed groundnut oil is an oil that is extracted from peanuts using a cold press method. It is unrefined, meaning it retains more of its natural nutrients and flavor.

2) What are the health benefits of cold pressed groundnut oil?

Cold pressed groundnut oil is high in monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats, which can help reduce the risk of heart disease. It also contains antioxidants and vitamins that can help boost the immune system and protect against inflammation.

3) Can I use cold pressed groundnut oil for cooking?

Yes, cold pressed groundnut oil can be used for cooking, frying, sautéing, and baking.

4) Can cold pressed groundnut oil be used for high-heat cooking?

Yes, cold pressed groundnut oil has a high smoke point and can withstand high temperatures without breaking down and releasing harmful compounds.

5) How should cold pressed groundnut oil be stored?

Cold pressed groundnut oil should be stored in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. It is recommended to use it within 6-12 months of opening, and to discard any oil that has a rancid smell or taste.

6) Is cold pressed groundnut oil vegan?

Yes, cold pressed groundnut oil is vegan as it is extracted from groundnuts using a mechanical process and does not involve any animal products.

7) Is cold pressed groundnut oil good for health?

Yes, cold pressed groundnut oil is considered to be a healthy oil as it is high in monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats, which can help to lower LDL (bad) cholesterol levels in the body and reduce the risk of heart disease. It is also a good source of vitamin E, which is an antioxidant that helps to protect cells from damage caused by free radicals.

8) Can we fry in cold pressed groundnut oil?

Yes, cold pressed groundnut oil is suitable for frying as it has a relatively high smoke point which means it can withstand high temperatures without breaking down or producing harmful compounds. Additionally, the high levels of monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats in cold pressed groundnut oil make it a healthier choice for frying compared to oils that are high in saturated or trans fats.

9) What is the difference between cold-pressed and normal groundnut oil?

The main difference between cold-pressed and normal groundnut oil is the method of extraction. Cold-pressed groundnut oil is extracted by pressing groundnuts using a mechanical press on Wooden Ghani machine without the use of heat or chemicals. This results in an oil that retains more of the natural nutrients and flavor of the groundnuts. Normal groundnut oil, on the other hand, is typically extracted using high heat and chemical solvents, which can damage the natural nutrients and alter the flavor of the oil and risking our health.

10) Does cold pressed groundnut oil increase cholesterol?

Consuming cold pressed groundnut oil in moderation is not likely to increase cholesterol levels in the body. In fact, cold pressed groundnut oil is considered to be a healthy oil as it is rich in monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats, which can help to lower LDL (bad) cholesterol levels in the body and reduce the risk of heart disease.

However, it’s important to keep in mind that all oils, including cold pressed groundnut oil, are high in calories and should be consumed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.