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Vegetable Oil

Vegetable oil is a versatile, edible oil derived from plant sources such as seeds, nuts, and fruits. It is commonly used in food preparation and cooking, due to its high smoke point and mild taste that doesn't overpower other flavors in the dish. Vegetable oils are rich in unsaturated fats, which have several health benefits when consumed in moderation, including lowering the risk of heart disease. Common types of vegetable oil include canola, corn, soybean, and sunflower oils, each with unique properties that suit different culinary applications. Besides cooking, these oils are also used in baking, frying, and as a base for salad dressings and mayonnaise.
#3
IN OILS
861
CAL / 100G
$0.05
AVG / OZ
vegetable oil
0%
CARBS
100%
FAT
0%
PROTEIN
Vegetable Oil FAQ
Vegetable oil is a highly versatile ingredient that can be used in a broad spectrum of culinary applications, from frying and sautéing to baking and dressings. However, often people get confused about its use, worrying that it may be unhealthy due to its fat content or struggling to understand when it's the ideal choice over other types of oil. Vegetable oil, while rich in fats, actually contains unsaturated fats that can be beneficial to heart health when consumed in moderation. Moreover, it's important to note that different types of vegetable oils, like canola, corn, soybean, and sunflower, have varying smoke points and flavor profiles, making some more suited to specific types of cooking than others. The smoke point of an oil is the temperature at which it begins to smoke and break down, losing its nutritive value and potentially producing harmful compounds. Therefore, choosing the right vegetable oil can largely contribute to the outcome of the dish. Little known, vegetable oil can also be used to season cast-iron pans and pre-grease baking pans due to its high smoke point. Another useful hack is that a small amount of vegetable oil added to boiling pasta prevents sticking.
Can you substitute vegetable oil for olive oil in recipes?
Is it healthy to cook with vegetable oil?
What is the difference between different types of vegetable oils?
Can I use vegetable oil for baking?
Why does my food taste like the oil I cooked it in?
Why is my vegetable oil producing smoke when I heat it?
Does vegetable oil make food greasy?
Can I use vegetable oil in salad dressings?
Can I reuse vegetable oil after frying?
Can vegetable oil be used to season cast-iron pans?
Expiration & Storage Tips
When does vegetable oil expire?
An unopened bottle of vegetable oil typically lasts between one to two years, depending on the specific type and its best-by date. Once the bottle is opened, vegetable oil should be used within six to twelve months. If the oil has been exposed to high heat, such as during a frying process, and stored properly in a cool, dark place, it lasts up to a month. In the freezer, despite not being a common storage method as vegetable oil doesn't actually freeze, it could potentially extend the shelf life up to two years.
How do you tell if vegetable oil is bad?
Spoiled vegetable oil exhibits changes in its smell, color, and consistency. It may have a sharp, bitter, or rancid odor instead of its usual neutral smell. The oil might appear darker and more cloudy than usual. In terms of consistency, the oil may have a thick or sticky texture. If you notice any of these changes, it's safer to discard the oil.
Tips for storing vegetable oil to extend shelf life
• Store unopened vegetable oil in a cool, dark and dry place like the pantry. Avoid storing it above the stove, as heat can spoil the oil quicker. • Once opened, keep the bottle tightly sealed to prevent exposure to air and moisture, which can lead to spoilage. • To maximize the shelf life of oil after opening, refrigerating it is a good option. Although it will thicken slightly, it will return to a liquid state once at room temperature. • Direct sunlight can degrade the quality of the oil over time, causing it to become rancid. Ideally, use dark glass bottles or opaque containers for storage. • If you've used the oil for frying, strain it through a fine sieve or cheesecloth to remove food particles, which can accelerate spoiling.
EXPIRES WITHIN
12 - 24
MONTHS
Health Info
Macros
0g
CARBS
13g
FAT
0g
PROTEIN
Allowed on these diets
LOW FAT
HIGH CALCIUM
VEGETARIAN
KETO
LOW CARB
VEGAN
LACTOSE FREE
GLUTEN FREE
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