When it comes to cooking and baking, choosing the right oil can make a HUGE difference in the flavor and overall quality of your dishes.
Two popular options on the market today are hazelnut oil and canola oil. While both oils have their own unique characteristics, they also have distinct differences that set them apart.
In this article, I’ll explore the differences between hazelnut oil and canola oil, discuss their best uses in the kitchen, delve into their nutritional profiles, and provide some more useful tips! So, let’s dive in and find out which oil comes out on top!
Comparing hazelnut oil vs canola oil
| Hazelnut oil | Canola oil | |
| Solid or Liquid? | Liquid | Liquid |
| Smoke Point (Fahrenheit) | 430 degrees | 225-445 degrees |
| Primary Fat | Monounsaturated | Monounsaturated |
| Taste | Nutty | Neutral |
| Good for Cooking… | Raw, low, moderate, and high heat | Raw, low, moderate, and high heat |
| Allergens | Tree nut, hazelnut, hazel tree pollen | Rapeseed, canola |
| Gluten-free? | Yes | Yes |
| Keto? | Yes | Yes |
| Paleo? | Yes | No |
| Vegan? | Yes | Yes |
Differences between hazelnut oil and canola oil
Hazelnut oil and canola oil are two distinct cooking oils that differ in their source, extraction methods, and uses.
Hazelnut oil is, of course, derived from hazelnuts and is extracted through cold-pressing, which involves applying pressure without heat.
On the other hand, canola oil is made from the seeds of the canola plant and extracted through a combination of mechanical pressing and solvent extraction.
Hazelnut oil has a rich, nutty flavor and aroma that’s often used as a finishing oil or in salad dressings. Canola oil has a more neutral flavor and can be used for frying, sautéing, or baking.
Baking and cooking with hazelnut oil vs canola oil
Hazelnut oil is fantastic for baking, particularly when you want to infuse your pastries or cakes with a delightful nutty taste. It pairs wonderfully with chocolate desserts, giving them an extra layer of decadence. Additionally, hazelnut oil can be used in salad dressings or drizzled over roasted vegetables to enhance their flavors.
Canola oil, on the other hand, is a true all-rounder. Its neutral taste makes it an ideal choice for cooking, as it doesn’t overpower the natural flavors of the ingredients. It has a high smoke point, making it suitable for frying, sautéing, and deep-frying. You can rely on canola oil to achieve crispy and golden results, whether you’re frying chicken or making homemade French fries. Its versatility extends to baking as well, where it can be used in recipes that require a neutral oil.
Can hazelnut oil and canola oil be substituted for each other?
Sure, you can totally substitute hazelnut oil with canola oil, but keep in mind their flavor differences.
Hazelnut oil has this yummy, nutty taste, while canola oil is more on the mild and neutral side.
So, if you swap hazelnut oil for canola oil, you’ll lose that distinctive hazelnut flavor. But hey, if the flavor isn’t a dealbreaker and you’re doing some high-heat cooking, go ahead and use canola oil instead. Just remember, it all depends on the recipe and what tickles your taste buds.
Nutrition: Hazelnut oil vs canola oil
Both hazelnut oil and canola oil are low in saturated fats and high in monounsaturated fats, which are considered heart-healthy.
Canola oil has the added advantage of containing a good balance of omega-6 and omega-3 fatty acids, while hazelnut oil is rich in vitamin E.
It’s worth noting that while both oils have nutritional benefits, moderation and a balanced diet are key for optimal nutrition!
Note: It’s always a good idea to consult with a healthcare professional or nutritionist regarding your specific dietary needs and any potential allergies before making significant changes to your diet.
| Per tablespoon (15mL) | Hazelnut oil | Canola oil |
| Calories | 120 | 124 |
| Polyunsaturated | 1.4 g | 3.9 g |
| Monounsaturated | 10.6 g | 8.9 g |
| Saturated | 1.0 g | 1.0 g |
| Trans | 0 g | 0.1 g |
| Total Fat | 13.6 g | 14 g |
| Cholesterol | 0 | 0 |
The primary fat source is bolded.
How to store hazelnut oil and canola oil
To keep your hazelnut oil and canola oil in top-notch condition, follow these simple tips:
For hazelnut oil, stash it in a cool, dark spot, away from sunlight and heat. If you live in a warm area, pop it in the fridge to keep it fresh.
As for canola oil, find a cool place for it too, away from light and heat. No need to refrigerate it. Just make sure it’s sealed up tight to prevent any air from sneaking in. These tricks will help preserve their freshness for longer.
Hazelnut oil vs canola oil: Which is better
Ultimately, the “better” oil depends on your specific needs and preferences. If you enjoy the unique flavor of hazelnut oil and its nutritional benefits align with your dietary goals, it can be a great choice for certain recipes. On the other hand, if you prefer a versatile oil with a milder taste and a higher smoke point, canola oil may be the better option. So, while I love the nutty flavor hazelnut oil provides, canola oil is the better all-purpose oil.
FAQs
In my experience, hazelnut oil is not ideal for frying. Its somewhat delicate flavor can easily be damaged by high heat.
Both canola oil and coconut oil have their own health benefits, but generally, coconut oil is considered healthier due to its higher content of beneficial fatty acids and potential antioxidant properties.
Both peanut oil and canola oil have their own advantages, but peanut oil is often considered better due to its higher smoke point, which makes it more suitable for high-heat cooking methods like frying.
Leave a Comment