4 Artisan Oils That Can Take Your Cooking To The Next Level
A generation or two ago, just about every pan-fried, deep-fried, or sauteed dish was made using either canola oil or lard. But as Americans became more conscious about the risks associated with consuming saturated fat and "trans fats," the number of oils commonly used in cooking expanded rapidly.
Today, even mainstream grocery stores offer a wide range of oils for cooking, dipping, and dressing. Whether you're a fan of the light taste and full body of coconut oil or prefer a stronger flavor like pecan, walnut, or almond oil, the number of culinary combinations available is nearly endless. And by investing in some high-quality oils, you'll be able to up the ante on even tried-and-true dishes. Read on to learn more about four popular artisan oils that can help you accentuate the flavors of each of your ingredients and ensure your guests come back for seconds (and even thirds).
1. Toasted Sesame Oil
Made by extracting oil from tiny toasted sesame seeds, this oil is a perfect accompaniment to many Asian dishes. Because sesame oil has a fairly high smoke point, it's ideal for stir-fries or frying tofu or meat, and provides a bit of umami without overwhelming the palate. It can also be drizzled over the top of a completed dish to add a stronger touch of sesame flavor.
2. Pecan Oil
From candied pecans to pecan pies, this high-fat and flavorful nut is featured in a number of decadent recipes. Pecan oil has recently burst through the culinary scene and is often used to provide a bit of heft to vegan recipes or a pleasant contrast to fruit- or sugar-heavy dishes.
3. Garlic-Infused Oils
Instead of adding garlic powder or raw garlic to your next dish, consider a dash or two of garlic-infused oil. This oil allows a subtle garlic taste to permeate the entire meal, ensuring a consistent flavor that's never overwhelming. And as a bonus, it saves you from the hassle of chopping garlic yourself (and then attempting to deodorize your hands and cutting board afterward).
4. Walnut Oil
Like pecan oil, walnut oil adds a nutty taste to just about any dish without compromising texture or requiring you to spend time with a food processor. This rich oil doesn't require a heavy hand and can be combined with a more neutral oil like grapeseed for dishes that require some sauteeing or frying. Walnut oil also makes a great salad dressing, especially when accompanied by apples, crispy wonton strips, crumbled soft cheese, or even onion straws.
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