Have you ever heard of hemp oil? If not, don’t worry – I’m here to give you the lowdown on this trendy ingredient.
Hemp oil (or hempseed oil) is a natural edible oil that is extracted from hemp seeds and has a rich nutty flavor.
It has gained popularity in recent years for its numerous health benefits and culinary uses, which I’ll explain in detail below!
What is hemp oil?
So, what exactly is hemp oil made of? Well, it’s made from the seeds of the hemp plant, also known as Cannabis sativa. However, it’s important to note that hemp oil does not contain any THC, the psychoactive compound found in marijuana. Therefore, it won’t get you high – for culinary use only!
Hemp oil can be used as a dressing for salads, as a dip for bread, or even drizzled over roasted vegetables. Its nutty flavor adds a unique touch to any dish.
How is hemp oil made?
The production of hemp oil involves extracting the oil from hemp seeds. There are a few different extraction methods, including cold-pressing and solvent extraction.
Cold-pressing involves mechanically pressing the seeds to extract the oil, while solvent extraction uses chemical solvents to separate the oil from the seeds.
Cold-pressing is best as it ensures the oil retains its nutritional value.
What’s the difference between hemp oil and CBD oil?
While both hemp oil and CBD oil are derived from the hemp plant, they have different compositions and uses.
CBD oil is extracted from the leaves, flowers, and stalks of the hemp plant and contains cannabidiol (CBD), a non-psychoactive compound known for its potential therapeutic benefits.
Hemp oil, on the other hand, is derived from the seeds and does not contain CBD. It is primarily used for its nutritional value and culinary applications.
Benefits of hemp oil
Speaking of nutritional value, hemp oil offers several health benefits! It’s rich in essential fatty acids, including omega-3 and omega-6, which are beneficial for heart health and brain function.
Hemp oil also contains vitamins and minerals such as vitamin E, phosphorus, potassium, and magnesium.
So, it’s a great addition to a healthy diet and it’s completely plant-based!
Let’s take a look at the nutrition facts of hemp oil…
Hemp oil nutrition facts
| Serving size | 1 tbsp (15mL) |
| Calories | 125 |
| Polyunsaturated | 11 g |
| Monounsaturated | 2 g |
| Saturated | 1 g |
| Trans | 0 g |
| Total Fat | 14 g |
| Cholesterol | 0 |
The primary fat source is bolded.
How to cook and bake with hemp oil
With its mild, nutty flavor, hemp oil can be used in a variety of ways to enhance your dishes.
Due to its low smoke point, it’s best suited for raw or lightly heated preparations. It’s perfect as a drizzling oil – adding a nutty richness to roasted vegetables, grilled meats, soups, or pasta dishes.
Whip up a homemade salad dressing by whisking hemp oil with vinegar or lemon juice, herbs, and spices for a flavorful twist on your salads. Or, get creative with marinades, sauces and dips! Make a zesty pesto or creamy hummus.
If you enjoy baking like me, you can experiment by substituting hemp oil for other oils in your recipes. Just keep in mind that hemp oil has a low smoke point, so it’s best suited for baking at lower temperatures (below 330°F). Try it out in muffins, bread, granola bars, or energy balls for an extra nutritional boost and nutty undertone. And don’t forget about your morning smoothies!
If you require an oil for high-heat cooking or baking methods, opt for alternatives like regular olive oil or oils with a higher smoke point.
Ways to use hemp oil
Here are a few ideas on ways to incorporate hemp oil into your daily routine:
- Salad dressings
- Marinades
- Drizzled over roasted vegetables, soups, or pasta dishes
- In your morning smoothie for an extra nutritional boost!
- Dips and spreads
- Pesto
- No-bake energy bites
- Nut butter blends
- Homemade energy bars or granola
- Some baked goods (cookies, brownies) and raw desserts
How to store hemp oil
Remember to store your hemp oil in a cool, dark place to maintain its freshness and quality. This will help preserve its freshness and prevent it from going bad.
Because hemp oil contains mostly polyunsaturated fat, it’s more prone to going rancid than other types of oils.
Once opened, hemp oil should be consumed within a few months to ensure its quality.
What are the best substitutes for hemp oil?
If you find yourself without hemp oil and need a substitute, there are a few options…
For an all-around substitute, wheatgerm oil can be a good choice. It has a similar nutty flavor and can be used in various raw dishes similar to hemp oil.
You can also use extra virgin olive oil for regular cooking. However, if you need an oil for high-heat cooking, regular olive oil is a better option. Sunflower oil is also a good choice, as it has a higher smoke point and a similar flavor profile to hemp oil.
FAQs
No, hemp oil is not the same as CBD oil. Hemp oil is derived from the seeds of the hemp plant, while CBD oil is derived from the leaves, flowers, and stalks and contains CBD. Hemp oil offers nutritional benefits, while CBD oil is known for its potential therapeutic effects.
It provides essential fatty acids, vitamins, and minerals, which can support heart health, brain function, and overall well-being. It’s a nutritious addition to your diet.
When it comes to choosing between hemp oil and CBD oil, it depends on your needs. If you’re looking for nutritional benefits and a versatile culinary ingredient, hemp oil is a great choice. If you’re seeking potential therapeutic effects, CBD oil might be more suitable. It’s important to consult with a healthcare professional before using CBD oil for any specific health concerns.
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