The Best Oil for Cooking Egg Rolls (Peanut & Canola)

Egg rolls are a popular Chinese take-out dish that everyone loves. But have you ever wondered what oil is the best for cooking egg rolls?

I will give you an in-depth look at the different types of oil used to cook egg rolls and which is optimal for taste and health benefits. You’ll be surprised to learn what type of oil gives your egg rolls the best flavor and texture!

Characteristics of Good Cooking Oil

When choosing the best oil for cooking egg rolls, it is essential to consider the characteristics of good cooking oil.

High Smoke Point: Good cooking oil should be high in smoke point, meaning it has a higher temperature before it begins to break down and produce smoke, which can impart an unpleasant taste to food.
Neutral Flavor: It should also have a neutral flavor not to overpower your egg rolls’ delicate flavors.

The Best Cooking Oil for Deep-Frying Egg Rolls

Peanut Oil

Peanut oil is a popular choice, especially for Chinese chefs. It has a high smoke point and lends a nutty flavor to dishes.

Peanut oil is the way to go if you want an out-of-this-world texture and flavor! But, it’s risky for people who have allergies to peanuts.

It’s also costly and hard to find in stores (you’ll probably have to order online).

Canola Oil

Canola oil is another excellent option, with a neutral flavor and low saturated fat content.

Additionally, it can be reused multiple times and is an excellent choice for cooking egg rolls.

Soybean Oil

This flavorless, odorless cooking oil is an excellent option because it can be heated to very high temperatures without smoking.

It’s an excellent choice for frying egg rolls as it won’t overpower the delicate flavors.

Coconut Oil

Coconut oil has many health benefits, including being rich in antioxidants and lauric acid.

Once opened, you’ll want to store coconut oil in an airtight container, as it can go rancid quickly if not stored properly.

Vegetable Oil

Vegetable oil is also low in saturated fat and rich in essential vitamins and minerals that can help support overall health.

It’s an excellent choice for those who avoid consuming too much animal fat while enjoying egg rolls.

Plus, it is cheap. So, if you’re looking for the best oil to cook egg rolls on a budget, vegetable oil is your best bet.

Corn Oil

Corn oil is another excellent option for cooking egg rolls. Plus, it tastes so good.

High Smoke Point vs. Low Smoke Point

Using oil with a low smoke point for frying or cooking at high temperatures can also be dangerous if heated beyond its smoke point. Once the oil reaches its smoke point, it can become highly flammable and create smoke, which can cause a fire hazard.

Therefore, choosing the right oil for the cooking and frying needs is crucial based on the cooking temperature and method. High-smoke point oils, such as avocado, grapeseed, or canola oil, are great for high-heat cooking, whereas low-smoke point oils, such as butter or extra-virgin olive oil, work well in lower-temperature cooking methods.

Factors to Consider When Choosing the Best Oil

Smoke point: The most crucial factor is the smoke point. Oil with a high smoke point is suitable for deep-frying. At the same time, oil with a low smoke point is good for stir-frying or other low-temperature cooking methods.
Flavor: Another critical factor is the flavor of the oil. Different types of oils have different flavors, and some may be more suitable for specific recipes. For instance, peanut oil has a nutty flavor that pairs well with egg rolls, while sesame oil adds a deep, smoky flavor. Coconut oil also lends itself well to stir-fries and other Asian dishes.
Nutritional value: Many cooking oils are cholesterol-free and have a low risk of heart disease. Additionally, some types of oil contain essential fatty acids that can help lower bad cholesterol levels. It’s best to choose an oil with high monounsaturated fatty acids, such as olive or avocado.
Availability and cost: Finally, the cost of the oil should also be taken into consideration. While some types of oil are more expensive than others, they may be worth it if they have a higher smoke point or more health benefits.

Types of Cooking Oil That Are Not Good for Deep-Frying

Certain types of cooking oil are not recommended for deep frying because they have a low smoke point and may break down or even become harmful at high temperatures.

Here are some oils that are not ideal for deep frying:

Extra-Virgin Olive Oil

Butter

Butter has a low smoke point, and its milk solids can burn quickly, affecting the food’s flavor and quality.

Flaxseed Oil

This oil should not be used for deep frying because it has a very low smoke point and breaks down easily, producing rancid flavors and harmful compounds when subjected to high heat.

Unrefined Coconut Oil

While coconut oil has many health benefits, the unrefined version has a low smoke point and a strong coconut flavor that can overwhelm the dish’s taste.

Sesame Oil

In general, oils high in polyunsaturated fats, such as sunflower, soybean, and corn oil, are also not recommended for deep frying because they can create harmful compounds when heated to high temperatures.

Instead, it is recommended to use oils with high smoke points and stable chemical structures, such as canola, peanut, or safflower oil, for deep frying. These oils are less likely to break down, which makes them a safer and healthier option for cooking at high temperatures.

FAQs

What are the benefits of cooking with oil?

Some potential benefits of cooking with oil include increased flavor and texture, easier browning and frying, and added moisture to dishes.

What are some common types of cooking oils?

Common cooking oils include vegetables, olive, canola, avocado, and coconut oil.

How do you choose the right type of oil for a dish?

Some oils, like stir-frying, are suitable for cooking with high heat, while others are good for cooking with low heat. Lighter oils like canola or vegetable oil work well for high-heat methods. The heavier fats like avocado or extra virgin olive oil work best for low-heat practices.

Can all cooking oils be used for high-heat cooking?

Not necessarily. Oils have varying smoke points or the temperature at which they start to burn and release harmful compounds.

Can you substitute one type of cooking oil for another in a recipe?

In most cases, yes – as long as you know of any potential flavor or smoke point differences.

Is it better to use refined or unrefined oils when cooking?

Unrefined oils may have more flavor but can’t be heated as much before smoking. Refined oils may not have as much flavor, but they can be heated more before smoking.