Cold Pressed Oil for Cooking – Healthy & Pure Oils for Indian Kitchens

What is Cold Pressed Oil?

Cold pressed oil is extracted using traditional wooden or metal presses at low temperatures (under 50°C), retaining the oil’s natural nutrients, antioxidants, aroma, and flavor. This method does not involve chemicals, heat, or preservatives, making it one of the healthiest choices for Indian cooking.

Why Cold Pressed is Best for Cooking

• Retains Nutrients – Vitamin E, Omega 3 & 6 fatty acids stay intact.
• Enhances Taste – Adds rich aroma & flavor to curries and tadkas.
• Better Digestion – Free from chemicals or artificial refinement.
• Traditional & Ayurvedic – Follows ancient marachekku methods used for centuries.

Top Cold Pressed Oils for Cooking in India

1. Wood Pressed Groundnut Oil (Marachekku Kadalai Ennai)

Groundnut oil is a staple in South Indian kitchens. Cold pressed groundnut oil offers a mild nutty flavor and is ideal for frying, sautéing, and tadkas. Rich in MUFA (monounsaturated fats), it's heart-friendly and helps reduce bad cholesterol.

2. Cold Pressed Coconut Oil

Pure and aromatic, cold pressed coconut oil is perfect for South Indian cooking and even baking. It boosts immunity, supports metabolism, and has antibacterial properties. Ideal for stir-fry, dosa, chutneys, and even bulletproof coffee.

3. Cold Pressed Mustard Oil (Kachi Ghani Sarson Tel)

Cold pressed mustard oil is widely used in North and East Indian dishes. It adds a pungent aroma and is great for pickles, curries, and shallow frying. Rich in Omega-3 and monounsaturated fats.

4. Cold Pressed Sesame Oil (Gingelly / Til Oil)

Used heavily in Tamil Nadu and Kerala, this oil is excellent for deep frying, tadka, and medicinal applications. It has natural antioxidants and is considered sacred in Ayurveda.

5. Cold Pressed Sunflower Oil

Sunflower oil extracted using cold press retains Vitamin E, is light, and perfect for general cooking. It's ideal for those looking for a neutral taste in stir-fried dishes.

Cold Pressed vs Refined Oil – What’s the Difference?

How to Choose the Right Cold Pressed Oil for Your Cooking

• Check if it's wood pressed (marachekku) or rotary pressed.
• Ensure no added preservatives or fragrances.
• Look for FSSAI certification.
• Choose oil based on cuisine:
  - Groundnut for frying/tadka
  - Coconut for South Indian dishes
  - Mustard for North Indian recipes
  - Sesame for medicinal & Ayurvedic uses

Storage Tips for Cold Pressed Oils

Store in airtight glass bottles, away from direct sunlight. Use within 3–6 months of opening. Refrigerate if needed in warm regions.

Where to Buy Pure Cold Pressed Oils Online?

Buy directly from certified, local producers who use wood/rotary pressing machines. Sutrakart offers cold pressed oils sourced from traditional mills across South India with 1-day home delivery in Bangalore.

➡️ Browse All Cold Pressed Oils

FAQs – Cold Pressed Oil for Cooking

Is cold pressed oil good for deep frying?

Yes, especially groundnut and sesame oil which have high smoke points. However, always use fresh batches and avoid reusing oil.

What’s the difference between wood pressed and cold pressed?

Wood pressed (marachekku) is a type of cold pressed method using wooden churners – slower and more traditional. All wood pressed oils are cold pressed, but not all cold pressed oils are wood pressed.

Which cold pressed oil is best for Indian cooking?

Groundnut oil and coconut oil are versatile and widely used. Mustard and sesame oil suit regional cuisines like Bengali, Punjabi, Tamil and Kerala dishes.

Can I use cold pressed oils daily?

Absolutely. They are healthier alternatives to refined oils and safe for daily cooking in moderate quantities.

Tags: Cold pressed oil for cooking, marachekku oil, wooden pressed peanut oil, healthy Indian cooking oil, groundnut oil Bangalore