Cooking with Oils..

[Tck13]

Does anyone notice a difference when cooking with different type of oils? I usually use olive oil for just about everything but notice that different recipies call for cooking in different oils.

I tried Veg. oil today but didn't really notice that much of a difference.

 

[robin]

Read up on smoke points and it will all be clear. Taste can be important in some dishes though.

 

[DNW]

I can taste the difference between canola oil, which is what I normally use for high heat cooking, EVOO, soy oil, and peanut oil. They all have their distinct flavors, with the canola oil the most neutral. I haven't cooked with vegetable oil for a long time.

 

[Schnurretiger]

Yes ,there is a difference! The post about smoke points is a pretty important hint. Where do you buy your oil? In the local superstore or are you willing to pay a bit more and go to a specialty store? I've just bought some 35 year old vinegar for example and that taste is quite close to a sensual revelation! Same goes for high-class oils.

 

[VKK3450]

EVOO also has a very distinct flavour. It enhances some cuisines, but totally screws with others. I wouldnt do Chinese, Mexican , etc in EVOO as it would add the wrong flavours.

K

 

[Reggs]

Get a large assortment, but only buy in small bottles. Many oils go rancid sooner than most people realize.