Cold Pressed Oil for Cooking: Healthiest Oils for Every Indian Kitchen

Cold Pressed Oil for Cooking: Healthiest Oils for Every Indian Kitchen

Cold pressed oil is the healthiest alternative to refined oils, extracted using low-heat, mechanical wooden pressing (like marachekku or ghani methods). Rich in nutrients, antioxidants, and flavor, these oils are perfect for Indian cooking—from tadkas to deep frying.

What is Cold Pressed Oil?

Cold pressed oil is extracted from seeds, nuts, or grains without using high heat or chemical solvents. This slow, traditional method (also called wood pressed or marachekku) retains nutrients like Vitamin E, MUFAs, PUFAs, and antioxidants, making it a healthier option for cooking.

How It's Made:

  • Seeds are cleaned and sun-dried
  • Crushed in wooden or stone churners at < 45°C
  • No additives, bleaching, or preservatives

Top 5 Cold Pressed Oils for Cooking in India

1. Marachekku Groundnut Oil

Ideal for frying and deep-frying. High in MUFAs, this oil lowers bad cholesterol and boosts heart health. Perfect for dosa, poori, and gravies.

2. Wood Pressed Coconut Oil

Great for South Indian dishes. Contains lauric acid, which boosts immunity. Can be used for sautéing, frying, and even baking.

3. Cold Pressed Sesame Oil (Gingelly)

Excellent for tempering dals and chutneys. Rich in calcium, iron, and antioxidants. Deepens flavor and supports joint health.

4. Wooden Cold Pressed Mustard Oil

Popular in North India. Helps digestion, improves blood circulation, and gives food a pungent zing. Ideal for pickles and parathas.

5. Flaxseed Oil (Linseed)

Not suitable for frying but great for dressings, smoothies, or raw drizzling. High in omega-3 fatty acids.

Benefits of Cold Pressed Oils vs Refined Oils

Aspect Cold Pressed Oil Refined Oil
Extraction Mechanical (low heat) High heat & chemical solvents
Nutritional Value Preserved Lost
Color Golden/Brownish Clear/Transparent
Smoke Point Medium High
Shelf Life 4–6 months 12+ months

Best Cold Pressed Oils for Cooking Specific Indian Dishes

  • Deep Frying: Groundnut oil, Coconut oil
  • Tadka: Sesame oil, Mustard oil
  • Raw Consumption: Flaxseed oil, Olive oil

Where to Buy Cold Pressed Oil for Cooking?

You can now order fresh cold pressed oils online in India with 1-day delivery in major cities like Bangalore, Chennai, Hyderabad, and Mumbai. Sutrakart offers certified, wood pressed oils directly from trusted mills.

How to Store Cold Pressed Oils?

Store in dark, airtight glass bottles. Avoid heat or sunlight. Best consumed within 4–5 months of opening for maximum nutrition.

Conclusion

Switching to cold pressed oils is a smart step toward a healthier lifestyle. Whether you cook daily Indian meals or enjoy experimenting, these natural oils preserve the flavor of food while offering medicinal benefits passed down through generations.

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