Hazelnut oil and coconut oil not only add distinct flavors to dishes but also offer various nutritional benefits. But when it comes to choosing the ultimate cooking oil, which one takes the crown? In this full comparison, we delve into all the details of hazelnut oil vs coconut oil to discover the ultimate verdict!
Comparing hazelnut oil vs coconut oil
| Hazelnut oil | Coconut oil, Virgin/Unrefined | Coconut oil, Refined | |
| Solid or Liquid? | Liquid | Semi solid | Semi solid |
| Smoke Point (Fahrenheit) | 430 degrees | 350 degrees | 400 degrees |
| Primary Fat | Monounsaturated | Saturated | Saturated |
| Taste | Nutty | Coconutty | Neutral |
| Good for Cooking… | Raw, low, moderate, and high heat | Raw, low heat, moderate heat | Raw, low heat, moderate heat |
| Allergens | Tree nut, hazelnut, hazel tree pollen | Coconut, tree nut | Coconut, tree nut |
| Gluten-free? | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Keto? | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Paleo? | Yes | Yes | No |
| Vegan? | Yes | Yes | Yes |
Differences between hazelnut oil and coconut oil
Let’s start with the basics, shall we? Hazelnut oil is derived from, you guessed it, hazelnuts! It’s made by cold-pressing roasted or unroasted hazelnuts, resulting in a rich, nutty flavor that adds a delightful depth to your dishes.
On the other hand, coconut oil is extracted from the meat of mature coconuts. It’s more of a solid or semi-solid, compared to hazelnut oil, which is liquid at room temperature.
You can get away with high heat cooking with hazelnut oil due to its high smoke point. Coconut oil will burn and start to smoke beyond 400 degrees, so it’s better for lower-heat cooking and baking.
Coming from hazelnuts or coconut – each oil has a unique flavor profile. Keep reading to find out my favorite ways to use each!
Virgin/unrefined vs refined coconut oil
Coconut oil is available in two forms: virgin/unrefined and refined. Virgin coconut oil is like the raw, untouched beauty of the coconut world. It’s made from fresh coconuts, extracted without any chemical processing.
Refined coconut oil goes through a refining process that involves bleaching and deodorizing. It’s more neutral in taste and scent, making it a versatile option for various culinary applications.
Baking and cooking with hazelnut oil vs coconut oil
Hazelnut oil is a fantastic addition to salad dressings, drizzled over roasted veggies, or even as a finishing touch on pasta dishes. It also goes surprisingly well with fish! Its nutty but delicate essence elevates both sweet and savory dishes, adding a delightful complexity. Because of its slightly sweet flavor, hazelnut oil is great in pastries and desserts as well.
Coconut oil, on the other hand, is a true superstar when it comes to baking. It can be used as a substitute for butter or other oil in many recipes, bringing a subtle hint of coconut flavor. Imagine whipping up a batch of fluffy coconut-infused pancakes or indulging in a decadent coconut oil chocolate chip cookie—pure bliss!
Can hazelnut oil and coconut oil be substituted for each other?
While hazelnut oil and coconut oil have distinct flavors, they can sometimes be interchanged depending on the recipe. For instance, if a recipe calls for hazelnut oil in a salad dressing and you’re fresh out, coconut oil can step in and provide a different, yet delicious twist.
Similarly, if a recipe calls for coconut oil in baking and you prefer a nuttier profile, hazelnut oil can add its magic. Just keep in mind that the flavor dynamics and cooking temperatures will change, so experiment and adjust accordingly!
Nutrition: Hazelnut oil vs coconut oil
Hazelnut oil is rich in monounsaturated fats (“good fats”), which are considered heart-healthy. It also boasts vitamin E and antioxidants, which offer numerous potential health benefits. Some studies have suggested it may reduce non-alcoholic fatty liver disease progression!
Coconut oil contains a high amount of saturated fats (“bad fats”), so it’s best eaten in moderation. However, virgin/unrefined coconut oil offers certain nutrients and medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs) that are more readily metabolized by the body.
| Per tablespoon (15mL) | Hazelnut oil | Coconut oil, Virgin/Unrefined | Coconut oil, Refined |
| Calories | 120 | 120 | 120 |
| Polyunsaturated | 1.4 g | 0 g | 1 g |
| Monounsaturated | 10.6 g | 1 g | 1 g |
| Saturated | 1.0 g | 13 g | 12 g |
| Trans | 0 g | 0 g | 0 g |
| Total Fat | 13.6 g | 14 g | 14 g |
| Cholesterol | 0 | 0 | 0 |
The primary fat source is bolded.
How to store hazelnut oil and coconut oil
Proper storage is key to keeping these oils fresh and flavorful.
Hazelnut oil should be stored in a cool, dark place away from direct sunlight. Remember, its delicate nutty flavor can degrade over time, so aim to use it within six months of opening.
Coconut oil, on the other hand, is quite resilient. You can store it at room temperature or in the refrigerator, depending on your preference. Properly stored, it can maintain its quality for up to two years!
Hazelnut oil vs coconut oil: The ultimate verdict
Now, the moment you’ve been waiting for—my ultimate verdict! In a nutshell, hazelnut oil and coconut oil are both fantastic additions to any kitchen. However, if I had to choose one as the winner, I’d go with hazelnut oil. Its rich, nutty flavor lends itself beautifully to a wide range of dishes, from salads to pasta and beyond. Plus, its heart-healthy monounsaturated fats and antioxidant properties are a fantastic bonus! While coconut oil is versatile and shines in baking, its high saturated fat content gives it a slightly heavier edge.
Remember, these are just my personal opinions, and your culinary journey may lead you down a different path. So, get creative, experiment, and let your taste buds be the ultimate judge!
FAQs
Hazelnut oil is commonly used for drizzling over salads, roasted vegetables, pasta dishes, and as a finishing touch to add a rich, nutty flavor to various recipes.
Hazelnut oil offers health benefits due to its high content of heart-healthy monounsaturated fats, vitamin E, and antioxidants, which contribute to cardiovascular health, antioxidant protection, and potential anti-inflammatory effects.
The healthiness of peanut oil versus coconut oil depends on various factors, such as individual dietary needs and preferences, but generally speaking, peanut oil is considered healthier due to its higher content of monounsaturated fats and lower saturated fat content compared to coconut oil.
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