Cook, Learn, and Share to Fight Hunger.
 
Food & Ingredients

Specialty Oils

While some oils excel at high temperatures, others, like specialty oils, offer delicate flavors and aromas best showcased in unheated preparations. Let's explore some culinary gems that will elevate your salads and beyond.

Tom the Chef Tom the Chef Founder
Published:
June 5, 2024

Introduction to Specialty Oils

Specialty oils are not just about flavor; they also boast a range of health benefits and unique properties. From the rich, nutty notes of walnut oil to the vibrant green hue of avocado oil, each oil brings its own personality to the table. Understanding the characteristics of these oils can unlock a world of culinary possibilities and elevate your cooking to new heights.

The Most Common Kinds of Specialty Oils

Extra Virgin Olive Oil (EVOO)

  • EVOO is the highest quality olive oil.
  • It’s made by mechanically cold-pressing olives and contains no chemicals or heat during processing.
  • Add to dressings or smoothies for a nutritional boost, but avoid heating.
  • Read more about Extra Virging Olive Oil here.

Sesame Oil

  • This nutty and aromatic oil adds a depth of flavor that shines in Asian-inspired dishes.
  • A small amount goes a long way, making it ideal for dressings, marinades, and finishing touches rather than primary cooking oil.
  • Read more about sesame oil here.

Unrefined Coconut Oil

  • While refined coconut oil handles high heat, the unrefined version brings a subtle coconut flavor and aroma.
  • Use sparingly in dressings or drizzled over tropical-inspired salads or desserts.
  • Read more about unferined coconut oil here.

Walnut Oil

  • Delicate and slightly sweet, walnut oil is a luxurious addition to salad dressings, particularly those featuring fruits and rich cheeses.
  • Enjoy its flavor in its purest form rather than exposing it to heat.
  • Read more about walnut oil here.

Flaxseed Oil

  • Rich in omega-3 fatty acids, flaxseed oil has a slightly nutty flavor but is highly susceptible to going rancid.
  • Add to dressings or smoothies for a nutritional boost, but avoid heating.
  • Read more about flaxseed oil here.
Tom the Chef Tom the Chef Founder
Recipes

Thai Noodles with Shrimps

January 5, 2024

Embark on a culinary journey to the heart of Thailand with this authentic Thai Noodles with Shrimps recipe. Crafted with passion and expertise, this dish brings together succulent shrimps and perfectly cooked noodles, all tossed in a vibrant blend of traditional Thai spices. Each bite offers a burst of flavors – the sweetness of the shrimps, the tanginess of the lime, the heat of the chilies, and the comforting warmth of the noodles. This recipe is not just about cooking a meal, it’s about experiencing the rich and diverse culinary heritage of Thailand right in your kitchen. So, put on your chef’s hat and get ready to whip up a Thai feast that’s sure to impress!

Read More

Beyond Dressings with Specialty Oils

These specialty oils add a touch of magic to:

  • Dips and Spreads: Enhance hummus or a simple yogurt dip with a swirl of EVOO or a touch of sesame oil.
  • Marinades: Sesame oil and EVOO add depth to flavorful marinades for meat and tofu.
  • Drizzling: Finish grilled meats, roasted vegetables, or even ice cream with a drizzle of a flavorful oil for an extra dimension.

Remember

Always store these specialty oils in cool, dark places to preserve their flavors and freshness. While they won’t withstand high-heat cooking, their unique flavors will transform your salads and cold dishes into culinary delights.

A Brief History of Specialty Oils

While the use of olive oil dates back centuries, many specialty oils have more recent origins. The rise of health-conscious consumers and the growing interest in global cuisines have contributed to the popularity of these oils. As culinary trends evolve, we can expect to see even more innovative uses for specialty oils in the future.

Nutritional Information on Specialty Oils

Specialty oils are a good source of healthy fats, including monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats. These fats can help lower cholesterol levels and reduce the risk of heart1 disease. Many specialty oils are also rich in antioxidants and other nutrients that offer various health benefits.

The world of specialty oils offers a fascinating journey for any food enthusiast. By exploring the unique flavors, aromas, and culinary applications of these oils, you can add a new dimension to your cooking and enhance your dining experience.

About the Author:
Tom the ChefFounder
# 1
  • Published Recipes: 269
  • Av. Recipe Evaluation:
  • Location: Iowa, USA
  • Member since: 2023-02-02
Profile & Recipes

Disclaimer

  1. General Information Content on this page above, including the content provided on www.CookingHub.com, including all recipes, articles, and other materials, is for general informational purposes only. This content reflects the personal opinions and experiences of its authors and is not intended to provide professional dietary, medical, legal, or political advice. Please consult a qualified professional before making any decisions based on the information presented here.
  2. Content Ownership and Use Content on this page above, including content published on CookingHub.com is owned by the individual authors who created it. Only the authors can access, modify, or delete their content from the platform. Our content may be embedded on third-party websites and blogs without modification. No reimbursement will be provided for this use. If an author removes content from CookingHub.com, it will no longer be available through any embedded links.
  3. Limitation of Liability Neither www.CookingHub.com (operated by the CookingHub Foundation) nor content authors are responsible for any outcome or consequence resulting from the use of information on this site. This includes, but is not limited to:
    • Food Safety: Any health risk related to food handling, food quality, or failure to follow USDA recommendations (including minimum safe cooking temperatures).
    • Preparation Safety: The proper and safe handling of cooking equipment or its suitability for any given task.
    • Recipe Outcomes: The final look, taste, or success of following a recipe.
    • Ingredients and Equipment: The sourcing of ingredients, tools, equipment, or anything else related to the preparation and consumption of food.
    • Nutritional and Dietary Information: The accuracy of nutritional data. This information is provided as a courtesy and should not replace advice from a medical provider. You are responsible for verifying that a diet is suitable for your personal health needs.
    • Errors and Omissions: Any potential errors, typos, or unclear directions in articles and recipes.
  4. User Responsibility All readers, visitors, and users of embedded content are solely responsible for evaluating recipes and articles. You must make your own decisions about whether to follow the steps and recommendations provided. It is your responsibility to ensure that ingredients and preparation methods are safe and appropriate for your personal dietary restrictions and health conditions.