Can You Mix Vegetable Oil & Peanut Oil? Explained

Last Updated on September 12, 2024 by Shari Mason

The conversation surrounding the most suitable cooking oil can sometimes become contentious.

While some people may prefer vegetable oil for its neutral flavor and high smoke point, others might be partial to peanut’s nutty flavor. But can you mix vegetable oil and peanut oil? 

Let’s take a look at the effects of combining these two types of oil and the potential risks associated with doing so.

Can You Combine Vegetable Oil & Peanut Oil?

Yes, you can combine vegetable oil and peanut oil. Using a combination of both oils can be beneficial when cooking, as they have unique properties. 

Vegetable oil has a high smoke point and is often used for deep frying and sautéing. Peanut oil is known for its nutty flavor and is often used to boost a dish’s flavor. 

When using both oils, it is important to remember that the smoke points of each oil will vary.

It is best to use a combination of the two oils at a lower temperature than what you would use with just one oil. This will ensure that the oils don’t burn. 

Additionally, consider adding a small amount of butter or ghee to the mix as these fats have higher smoke points than both oils and will help to prevent the oils from burning. 

Adding butter or ghee will also add a richer flavor to the dish. When combining vegetable oil and peanut oil, always use caution to prevent oil splatters and burns.

Read: What Kind Of Oil And Vinegar Does Subway Use?

Vegetable Oil vs Peanut Oil

Vegetable and peanut oil are both popular cooking oils but differ in their health benefits and nutritional content. 

Vegetable oil is a generic term used to describe a range of oils made from different sources, such as corn, canola, soybean, and safflower.

It is a good source of unsaturated fats and vitamin E and has a relatively neutral flavor that can be used in various recipes. 

Peanut oil [1] is made from peanuts and is rich in monounsaturated fats, which can help lower cholesterol levels. It also has a high smoke point, which makes it ideal for deep-frying. 

“How is the government going to run without people like us? We make 35 percent of the bread in this country, and that much of the margarine, cooking oil, and all the other things.”

– Dwayne Andreas, Industrialist

Read: Can You Use A Meat Thermometer For Oil?

When deciding which oil is better, it is important to consider each option’s nutritional value and health benefits.

Vegetable oil provides more unsaturated fats, which are beneficial for heart health, while peanut oil is a great source of monounsaturated fats. 

Ultimately, the best oil depends on the recipe and your dietary needs.

Read: Can I Use Sesame Oil Instead Of Olive Oil?

What To Consider When Mixing Oils For Frying?

When mixing oils for frying, it is important to consider the oil’s smoke point. The smoke point is the temperature at which the oil breaks down and releases harmful compounds. 

Higher smoke points are better for deep-frying, while lower smoke points are better for shallow-frying.

It is also important to consider the flavor of the oil, as some oils can add flavor to the food while others can be tasteless. 

Lastly, it is important to consider the cost of the oil, as some oils are much more expensive than others.

Read: How To Heat Oil To 350 Without A Thermometer?

Tips On How To Mix Oils For Cooking

• Start with a neutral oil: Neutral oils like canola or vegetable oil are a great place to start when mixing oils for cooking. They don’t have a strong flavor and are great at carrying other flavors. 
• Add nut-based oil: Nut-based oils like walnut oil, peanut oil, or almond oil add a unique and nice nutty flavor to a dish. Use these oils sparingly, as they can be quite strong and overpower other flavors. 
• Add olive oil: Olive oil is a great addition to any cooking oil mixture. It adds a unique flavor and a bit of healthiness to the dish. 
• Add flavor-infused oils: A variety of flavor-infused oils are available in stores. These can add a unique flavor to your dish and be a great addition to your cooking oil mix. 
• Mix it up: Once you have chosen your oils, mix them in a bowl or container. Don’t be afraid to experiment and see what flavors you prefer. 
• Store it properly: Store your cooking oil mix in a sealed container or bottle in a cool, dark place.

Read: How To Stop Oil From Popping?

FAQs

Final Thoughts

In conclusion, mixing vegetable and peanut oil can be a great way to take advantage of both oils’ unique flavors and health benefits. 

However, it is important to note that each oil has a different smoke point [2] and that mixing the two oils can change the smoke point of the blended oil. 

Therefore, it is important to be careful when combining the two oils and to choose the right recipe for the desired flavor and texture.

References:

1. https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/is-peanut-oil-healthy
2. https://www.thespruceeats.com/smoking-points-of-fats-and-oils-1328753