Peanut Oil vs. Vegetable Oil
It can be confusing when it comes to picking the right oil for cooking and baking. Peanut oil and vegetable oil are often compared to each other, as they have similar benefits and uses. But what is the difference between these two?
What is Peanut Oil?
Peanut oil is a pale yellow, mild flavored oil made from peanuts. It has a high smoke point and is often used for deep frying and stir-frying. It is also a great source of healthy monounsaturated fats, vitamins and minerals.
What is Vegetable Oil?
Vegetable oil is a general term used to describe many types of edible oils made from vegetables and seeds. The most common types of vegetable oil include soybean oil, sunflower oil, safflower oil, and canola oil.
Can I Substitute Peanut Oil for Vegetable Oil?
Yes, you can substitute peanut oil for vegetable oil and vice versa. Here are some of the benefits of using these oils as substitutes:
- Flavor: Peanut oil has a neutral flavor and won’t change the taste of your food, whereas vegetable oil has a nutty flavor that can affect the flavor of the dish.
- Smoke Point: Peanut oil has a higher smoke point than some types of vegetable oil, making it a better choice for dishes that require high heat.
- Health: Peanut oil is high in monounsaturated fats, vitamins and minerals, whereas some types of vegetable oil can be high in saturated fats.
Keep in mind that when substituting peanut oil for vegetable oil, it is important to choose the oil with the highest smoke point to ensure they food is cooked properly and won’t burn. Also, you might want to adjust the amount of oil used as peanut oil is typically more expensive than vegetable oil.
