It’s easy to become overwhelmed when browsing the current cooking oil aisle. There’s grapeseed, peanut, safflower, avocado, sesame, coconut, sunflower and palm oil among others. These come in addition to the three major varieties of oil - olive, canola and veggie - each with its own flavour profiles and qualities. Corn oil, one of the most popular and widely available kinds, is among them.
What is corn oil?
Corn oil is made from the germ of corn, which is the component of the plant that can germinate and grow into more corn. Because it goes through a lengthy process before being delivered to customers, it is classified as ‘refined oil’. In order to improve the taste, smell and look of corn oil, fat must be removed from corn kernels using procedures such as pressing, hexane extraction, deodorisation, and winterisation. Corn oil is commonly used to fry foods at high temperatures and moisten packaged foods since it has a neutral taste and a high smoke point. It can be baked with, grilled with or used in stir-fries in addition to frying.
Ways to cook using corn oil
1. Grilling: Grilled dishes are prepared quickly over a high heat source. Corn oil ensures that the food does not stick to the grill and does not produce clouds of smoke.
2. Stir-frying: Using a pan to stir-fry noodles, rice, or vegetables necessitates an oil designed for high-temperature flash cooking. In a pan, heat a few teaspoons and turn it on.
3. Baking: Corn oil is a great choice for baking cakes, cupcakes, muffins or anything that benefits from a non-stick coating in the pan due to its neutral flavour and light consistency.
4. Deep frying: When corn oil is heated to high temperatures and used to crisp up fried chicken or handmade doughnuts, it shines.
Benefits of corn oil
1. Helps To Reduce inflammation
When ingested in moderation, both Omega 3 and Omega 6 may help to reduce inflammation in the body. This can aid with arthritis symptoms, as well as headaches, gastrointestinal issues, and even skin inflammatory illnesses.
2. Helps To Prevent Chronic Diseases
Antioxidant qualities may be found in monounsaturated fats, polyunsaturated fats, flavonoids and Vitamin E, which can help minimise oxidative stress throughout the body. This oil, when taken in moderation, can help to avoid chronic disease and make the skin appear and feel younger.
3. Aids Skin Health
Corn oil’s antioxidants and tocopherols may help prevent skin infections and soothe irritation, acne, eczema, and psoriasis, whether applied directly to the skin or consumed in tiny doses. It may possibly aid in the reduction of wrinkles and other signs of ageing. However, keep in mind that, regardless of how nice it makes your skin seem, this oil is high in fat and should always be eaten in moderation.
4. Balances Cholesterol Levels
The body needs both monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats because they can help regulate inflammation and high cholesterol. However, in most forms of corn oil, especially processed varieties, these fats may not be balanced. As a result, in very little amounts, this oil can lower blood pressure and balance cholesterol. Therefore, use it carefully when cooking.
5. Improves Vision
Corn oil may contain other substances besides lipids, such as flavonoids and antioxidants like lutein, which can help the body minimise free radical activity. Lutein, in particular, may be able to safeguard visual health and prevent cataracts from developing