Peanut oil is one of the more widely used cooking fats and oils. Derived from the seed of the peanut plant, it finds itself in cooking as well as in medicine production.
Fun fact: you can process peanut oil until it transforms into glycerol, a component pivotal in producing the explosive liquid nitroglycerine—a key ingredient in dynamite! But, keeping it strictly kitchen-related, it is primarily used for deep frying and other high-heat cooking methods due to its higher smoke point.
When it comes to storing peanut oil for the long term, there are a few factors to consider. Let’s look at what they are.
How To Store Peanut Oil?
For optimal storage, whether opened or not, it is recommended to keep peanut oil in a cool and dark place. If the oil has been opened, refrigeration can extend its shelf life by a few months. While refrigerated, the oil may thicken, but it will return to its liquid state once brought to room temperature. If the oil exhibits a rancid smell, it has likely gone bad.
The most important factor to consider when storing oils is temperature. To prevent premature rancidity, it is advisable not to store peanut oil in areas with significant temperature fluctuations, as this can cause the breakdown of its components. So, that oil you have stored right next to the stovetop or oven may need to be relocated!
Can You Freeze Peanut Oil?
Indeed, peanut oil can be successfully frozen. However, similar to other frozen items, it is prone to flavor degradation when kept in storage for an extended period of time.
To freeze oils, I use an ice cube tray to freeze in individual portions, and then once frozen, I transfer them to a ziplock bag.
How To Defrost Peanut Oil?
To rapidly defrost peanut oil, just leave it on the counter overnight. During this time, the solid and opaque state will transform to a clear and thawed consistency. If it seems a little cloudy, give it a little whisk before using.
How Long Does Peanut Oil Last?
Unopened peanut oil, when stored at room temperature, typically maintains its quality for two years, assuming proper storage conditions are observed.
Once opened, a bottle of peanut oil can be refrigerated and remain usable for approximately 6 months to a year, according to experts. Continuous refrigeration helps preserve its freshness and extend its lifespan.
Whether the oil is open or not, it can be frozen solid and stored for approximately a year, maintaining its quality and usability.
If your peanut oil is the cold-pressed, unrefined version, it will have a much shorter lifespan, usually only a few months at room temperature.
How To Know When Peanut Oil Is Rancid?
Determining if your peanut oil has spoiled requires a simple yet reliable method: sniffing it. Open the lid and inhale the aroma. If it emits a foul odor, you can be sure it has gone bad.
Take note of the “best by” date mentioned on the bottle, although this may serve more as a rough estimate rather than an exact indicator of spoilage. Factors such as proper storage and whether the bottle has been opened can affect the oil’s lifespan.
Another visual cue to look out for is a deep-brown color, which signifies that the oil has expired and should be discarded.
FAQs
Peanut oil in moderation is considered safe, though a growing body of research is emerging about the harmful effects of excess omega-6 consumption compared to omega-3. So, moderation is vital, as is ensuring you get enough omega-3 in your diet.
Peanut oil performs better under prolonged exposure to high heat, making it a preferred option in many restaurants for cooking.
It’s popular for deep frying because it has a neutral taste and a high smoke point. However, deep frying itself is never healthy.
Studies indicate that most individuals with peanut allergies do not experience allergic reactions when exposed to refined peanut oil. Even if a reaction occurs, it is typically mild in nature. However, symptoms are more likely to manifest when using unrefined peanut oil.
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