Ingredient Deep Dive: Cold-Pressed Mustard Oil

Cold-pressed mustard oil, a staple in many Indian households, is renowned for its robust flavour and numerous health benefits. Made from Indian heirloom black mustard seeds, this oil is a testament to simplicity, honesty, and reliability. 

In this blog, we will explore its journey from seed to bottle, delving into mustard oil ingredients, manufacturing process, health benefits, and culinary uses.

What Type of Plant Is Mustard Oil Extracted From?

Mustard oil is derived from the seeds of the mustard plant, scientifically known as Brassica juncea. This plant is part of the Brassicaceae family, which also includes cabbage, broccoli, and kale. The mustard plant is known for its hardy nature and ability to thrive in various climates, making it a versatile crop.

The mustard plant produces small, round seeds that can be yellow, brown, or black. Indian heirloom black mustard seeds are particularly prized for their high oil content and strong flavour, making them the preferred choice for cold-pressed mustard oil.

How Is Mustard Oil Harvested?

The journey of mustard oil processing begins with the careful cultivation and harvesting of mustard seeds. The mustard plant is typically sown in the winter months and harvested in the spring. Farmers monitor the plants closely, ensuring they receive adequate water and nutrients.

When the mustard pods turn brown and dry, they are ready for harvest. The plants are cut and left to dry in the field for a few days. Once dried, the seeds are separated from the pods through a process called threshing. The seeds are then cleaned and sorted to remove any impurities, ensuring only the best quality seeds are used for oil extraction.

How Is Mustard Oil Made?

The extraction of cold-pressed oil is a meticulous process that preserves the natural qualities of the oil. Unlike traditional methods that use high heat and chemicals, cold pressing involves a mechanical process that generates minimal heat, maintaining the oil’s nutritional content and flavour.

1. Cleaning and Drying: The harvested mustard seeds are thoroughly cleaned to remove any dirt or debris. They are then dried to reduce moisture content, which is crucial for efficient oil extraction.
2. Pressing: The dried seeds are fed into a cold press machine, which uses hydraulic or screw presses to apply pressure and extract the oil. This process is done at temperatures below 50 degrees Celsius to ensure the oil retains its natural properties.
3. Filtration: The extracted oil is then filtered to remove any remaining seed particles or impurities. This step ensures the oil is clear and ready for consumption.

At Gramiyaa, we enhance this traditional process with a careful filtration method. Instead of regular filtration methods, we gently pass the oil through layers of cotton fabric to carefully remove any leftover seed particles or sediments. This handmade approach not only ensures exceptional clarity but also prevents spoilage and the bitter taste often associated with sediment buildup. 

1. Bottling: Finally, the filtered oil is bottled and sealed to preserve its freshness. The bottles are labelled with information about the oil’s origin, ingredients, and nutritional content.

Health Benefits Of Mustard Oil

Here are some of the key advantages of incorporating mustard oil content into your diet:

1. Rich in Healthy Fats: Mustard oil contains a balanced ratio of omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, which are essential for maintaining heart health and reducing inflammation.
2. Antioxidant Properties: The oil is rich in antioxidants, including vitamin E, which helps protect the body from oxidative stress and supports healthy skin.
3. Anti-Inflammatory Effects: Mustard oil has natural anti-inflammatory properties, making it beneficial for conditions like arthritis and joint pain.
4. Boosts Immunity: The presence of essential nutrients like selenium and magnesium in mustard oil helps strengthen the immune system.
5. Improves Digestion: Mustard oil stimulates the production of digestive juices, aiding in better digestion and nutrient absorption.
6. Promotes Hair and Skin Health: Regular use of mustard oil can improve hair texture, reduce dandruff, and promote healthy skin by keeping it moisturized and supple.

How to Use Mustard Oil in Cooking?

Now that you know how mustard oil is prepared, here are some ways to incorporate it into your cooking:

1. Cooking and Frying: Mustard oil’s high smoke point makes it ideal for frying and sautéing. Its pungent flavour adds a unique taste to dishes like pakoras, samosas, and stir-fries.
2. Marinades and Dressings: Use mustard oil in marinades for meats and vegetables to infuse them with a rich, tangy flavour. It also works well in salad dressings, adding a spicy kick to your greens.
3. Pickling: Mustard oil is a popular choice for pickling due to its preservative properties and strong flavour. It enhances the taste of pickles and helps them stay fresh for longer.
4. Drizzling: A drizzle of cold-pressed mustard oil over cooked dishes like dal, curries, or roasted vegetables can elevate their flavour profile.
5. Baking: While not commonly used in baking, mustard oil can add a unique twist to savoury baked goods like bread and crackers.

Recipes Using Cold-Pressed Mustard Oil

Here are a few recipes to get you started with the best quality mustard oil in India:

Mustard Oil Fish Curry

Ingredients:

• 500g fish fillets
• 2 tbsp cold-pressed mustard oil
• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 2 tomatoes, pureed
• 1 tsp ginger-garlic paste
• 1 tsp turmeric powder
• 1 tsp red chilli powder
• 1 tsp mustard seeds
• Salt to taste
• Fresh coriander leaves for garnish

Instructions:

1. Heat mustard oil in a pan until it starts to smoke slightly.
2. Add mustard seeds and let them splutter.
3. Add chopped onions and sauté until golden brown.
4. Add ginger-garlic paste and cook for a minute.
5. Add turmeric and red chilli powder, followed by tomato puree. Cook until the oil separates.
6. Add fish fillets and cook for 5-7 minutes, turning them gently.
7. Add salt and a little water if needed. Simmer for another 5 minutes.
8. Garnish with fresh coriander leaves and serve hot with rice.

Mustard Oil Aloo Paratha

Ingredients:

• 2 cups whole wheat flour
• 4 medium potatoes, boiled and mashed
• 2 tbsp cold-pressed mustard oil
• 1 tsp cumin seeds
• 1 tsp turmeric powder
• 1 tsp red chilli powder
• Salt to taste
• Fresh coriander leaves, chopped
• Water for kneading

Instructions:

1. In a bowl, mix whole wheat flour with water to form a soft dough. Set aside.
2. Heat mustard oil in a pan and add cumin seeds.
3. Add mashed potatoes, turmeric, red chilli powder, and salt. Cook for a few minutes.
4. Add chopped coriander leaves and mix well. Let the mixture cool.
5. Divide the dough into small balls and roll them out.
6. Place a spoonful of potato mixture in the centre and fold the dough over it.
7. Roll out the stuffed dough balls into parathas.
8. Cook on a hot griddle, applying a little mustard oil on both sides until golden brown.
9. Serve hot with yoghurt or pickle.

Mustard Oil Salad Dressing

Ingredients:

• 2 tbsp cold-pressed mustard oil
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 1 tsp honey
• 1 tsp Dijon mustard
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. In a small bowl, whisk together mustard oil, lemon juice, honey, and Dijon mustard.
2. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Drizzle over your favourite salad and toss to coat.

These recipes showcase the versatility of cold-pressed mustard oil, allowing you to enjoy its unique flavour and health benefits in various dishes. Whether you’re making a hearty curry, a flavorful paratha, or a zesty salad dressing, mustard oil can add a delightful twist to your meals.

Cold-pressed mustard oil, made from Indian heirloom black mustard seeds, is a testament to the principles of simplicity, honesty, and reliability. Its straightforward production process, transparency in ingredients, and consistent quality make it a valuable addition to any kitchen. Whether you’re looking to enhance the flavour of your dishes or reap the numerous health benefits, cold-pressed mustard oil is a versatile and nutritious choice.

By choosing Gramiyaa cold-pressed mustard oil, you're not just selecting a cooking ingredient; you're embracing a tradition of purity and flavour. Our commitment to preserving age-old methods ensures that every drop of our oil encapsulates the essence of authentic Indian cuisine

Understand the journey of mustard oil manufacturing from seed to bottle to appreciate the care and craftsmanship that goes into producing this remarkable oil. So, the next time you reach for a bottle of mustard oil, you’ll know that you’re choosing a product that embodies the best of nature and tradition.