5 Ways to Incorporate Cold-Pressed Mustard Oil into Your Cooking

Let’s chat about something that’s been a game-changer in Indian cooking for ages: cold-pressed mustard oil!  If you’ve ever wandered into a Bengali or North Indian kitchen, you know that unmistakable, sharp aroma that hits you right away. It’s like a flavour explosion from nature, giving just the right zing to everything it meets. 

Sure, some people might think it’s a bit overpowering at first, but once you start using it in your dishes, you won’t want to stop. It’s not only about that bold taste; this golden goodness is packed with nutrients that your body will totally thank you for.

Let’s look at some simple ways to incorporate this wonderful oil into your everyday cooking. 

Why everyone's raving about cold-pressed mustard oil in Indian cooking

Before we get into the ways to add the same, let’s look at some of the reasons why people have started loving mustard oil recipes! 

• At Gramiyaa, we use fine quality mustard seeds and extract oil using the traditional wood pressing technique, which retains all the nutrients – absolutely no chemicals and heat. It’s kind of like the difference between freshly squeezed orange juice and the artificial stuff that is filled with unnecessary additives.. 

• Indian cooking usually involves a lot of heating, frying and high-heat cooking stuff! And cold-pressed mustard oil is just perfect for it. This oil can be used for preparing mouth-watering Indian curries, as well as for frying some crispy pakoras and bhajjis, because it can handle heat like a pro!

• Mustard oil gives an aromatic punch to the dishes - like adding an extra layer of spice without even using a masala box. When you are marinating veggies or meat, this oil doesn't just sit outside; it gets right in there, making everything taste amazing.

• Our grannies really knew what they were talking about when they used it for just about everything. This oil is packed with good stuff that fights inflammation and helps keep those annoying germs at bay. Modern science is finally catching up to what Ayurveda figured out ages ago.

• Wood pressed mustard oil is an amazing source of omega-3 fatty acids, which is very much needed for good heart health. They also help reduce inflammation in the body. Taste, and health – you get both when you use this oil.

5 cool ways to rock your cooking with cold-pressed mustard oil

Now we are pretty clear why cold pressed mustard oil has become a staple in so many kitchens across India, especially in the North and the Eastern parts. Let’s look at five easy ways you can use this oil to create some mouth-watering Indian recipes.

1. Jazz up your marinades

If you’re scratching your head about how to use cold pressed mustard oil with meat or fish, marinating is definitely the way to go. This oil not only tenderises the meat but also brings a sharp, distinct flavour that’s hard to beat. Take Bengali fish curry, or maachher jhol, for example. By marinating the fish in a blend of cold-pressed mustard oil and some traditional spices before cooking, you really amp up the fish’s natural taste. Plus, it helps achieve that crispy, tasty crust when you fry it up. 

And it’s not just the meat, this oil can be used for veggies as well. Just mix the mustard oil with some turmeric, garlic, ginger, and a splash of lemon, and you’ve got yourself a marinade that’s bursting with flavour!

2. Pickle like a pro

No Indian kitchen feels complete without a good stash of pickles. This oil does double duty - it not only acts as a preservative but also gives those pickles that sharp, tangy kick we all love. Wood pressed mustard oil helps the spices blend into whatever veggies or fruits you’re using, letting them soak up all that heat and flavour. Whether you are whipping up mango pickle, lime pickle, or a mixed vegetable one, mustard oil is crucial for nailing that perfect flavour balance.

3. Master the tadka game

Now, let’s talk about one of the simplest ways to use mustard oil in Indian cooking – tempering, a.k.a, tadka. Whether you’re cooking up a rich curry or just a humble daal, adding a spoonful of cold pressed mustard oil for cooking while tempering can really amp up the flavour. That pungent kick of the oil pairs so well with spices like cumin, mustard seeds, and fenugreek. It’s all about creating this amazing flavour profile. Heat up the mustard oil and mix it with garlic, onions, and mustard seeds, then pour that over your cooked dal, wow!!

4. Stir-fry with a twist

If you think veggies are dull, think again! In Indian kitchens, stir-frying is the way to make those greens interesting. Using cold-pressed mustard oil is a game-changer! It boosts the flavours of veggies like cabbage, spinach, cauliflower, and beans. Take aloo gobhi, for instance - just a simple recipe of potatoes and cauliflower, with some humble ingredients and spices added to the mustard oil, and it becomes something delectable! The oil’s strong aroma goes perfectly with spices, taking the simple recipe to a different level. And let’s not forget about other stir fries like okra, beans, and even plain potatoes, which get a major flavour upgrade with mustard oil.

5. Tawa parathas and more

A little dab of mustard oil on the dough before you roll it out can add this delightful softness and richness. This trick is very popular in many parts of North India, where they use ghee or mustard oil to amp up the flavour and texture of parathas - a crispy, golden exterior that makes each bite a treat! And the aroma of mustard oil in stuffed parathas brings out the flavours of fillings like paneer, potatoes, or any wonderfully spiced fillings.

Gramiyaa - your go-to e-store for cold pressed mustard oil

Looking for the best mustard oil for cooking in India? Think Gramiyaa! We are not just selling mustard oil; we are keeping alive a tradition that makes Indian cooking so special. Our wood-pressed mustard oil is that nostalgic kind that takes you back home – pure, powerful, and ideal for everything, whether it’s your everyday meals or those festive feasts. Be it our traditionally extracted oil, or careful packaging that ensures longevity, everything promises purity and tradition.

So, whether you’re a culinary expert or just dipping your toes into the world of Indian flavours, Gramiyaa is here for you. We offer cold-pressed mustard oil that’s as genuine as it can be.