The fundamental role of oil in cooking
Oil plays an essential role in cooking, as it is used for a wide variety of purposes, such as sautéing, frying, dressing, decorating, greasing, preserving certain foods or preparing sauces. In addition, its versatility goes further, since, depending on the type of oil, it can provide significant health benefits.
Diversity of oils in the kitchen
Olive, corn, sunflower, coconut, almond, canola and sesame oils are just a few examples of the wide range of oils used in cooking. Each of them brings a distinctive touch to culinary preparations and, depending on their nutritional properties, may be more suitable for certain types of dishes.
Health benefits of different types of oils
Each type of oil offers specific health benefits. For example, olive oil is rich in monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fatty acids, helps control cholesterol levels, acts as an antioxidant and improves the body’s immune response. For its part, coconut oil is rich in saturated fatty acids, promotes digestion, increases good cholesterol, strengthens hair and reduces the appearance of bacteria that cause cavities.
Selecting the best oil for cooking
When choosing the best cooking oil, it is important to consider the nutritional needs and degree of cooking of the food. For example, olive oil is ideal for dressings, seasoning salads and sautéing, while coconut oil is suitable for grilling, braising, braising and baking. Likewise, avocado oil is versatile and can be used raw or for frying, canola oil is recommended for high temperatures, and sunflower oil is ideal for preparing hot recipes and seasoning.
Recommendations for combining oils
Although it is not common to combine oils, it is possible to do it properly. It is important to take into account the smoke point of the oils, as well as the flavor profile of each one, to achieve a harmonious combination. For example, sunflower oil and corn oil have similarities in flavor and consistency, making them ideal for mixing.
Conclusion
Choosing the best cooking oil can be a challenging process, but it is essential to ensure the success of your culinary preparations. Experiment with different types of oils and discover which one best suits your needs and preferences. Don’t miss the opportunity to enrich your culinary skills by enrolling in our International Cuisine Program and learning from our experts!
