Wood-pressed cooking oils have a long and rich history dating back to ancient times. The traditional wood press method of oil extraction was widely used in India for thousands of years. The ancient Ayurvedic texts mention the use of ‘kolhu grinding’ to extract oils without the use of heat or chemicals, preserving the natural nutrients and flavour of the oil. It makes wood pressed oils a healthier and more flavourful alternative to refined oils.
The conventional wooden pestle, known as ghani or chekku, was operated by hand and used a system of wooden gears to crush the seeds or nuts and extract the oil. This method of oil extraction was largely practiced in rural areas of India and was considered to produce the best quality oil.
The revival of wood-pressed oils can be attributed to a growing awareness of the health benefits of unrefined oils.
Today, wood-pressed oils are produced using both traditional and modern techniques. Wooden pestles have been refined and modernised, and are often powered by electricity. However, the basic principle of using wooden pestles to crush seeds or nuts remains the same.
Wood-pressed cooking oils are now widely available in many parts of the world and are popular with health-conscious consumers who are looking for a natural, unrefined alternative to refined oils.
Wood-pressed cooking oils are versatile and can be used in a variety of dishes, including stir-fries, sautés, curries, stews, salads, dressings, baking, and frying.
To get the most out of our oils, we recommend using them at low to medium temperatures to preserve their natural flavour and nutrients.
Wood-pressed cooking oils are considered to be healthier than other types of cooking oils, as they are unrefined and retain their natural flavour and nutritional benefits. They are rich in antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals, and have a higher smoke point than refined oils, making them ideal for cooking and frying.
Yes, wood-pressed cooking oils can be used for baking. They add a rich, nutty flavour to baked dishes and are a healthier alternative to refined oils.
Wood-pressed oils are extracted using traditional methods of pressing seeds or nuts using wooden pestles. This method of extraction ensures that the natural nutrients, flavours, and aromas of the seeds or nuts are retained in the oil. On the other hand, refined oils go through several processes of purification, bleaching, and deodorization, which diminishes the nutritional value of the oil.
Wood-pressed oils possess varying cooking properties and are best suited for specific dishes. For instance, sesame oil works well for stir-frying and sautéing, while coconut oil is ideal for high-temperature cooking, such as frying. It is best to choose the oil based on the type of cooking you plan to do.
