Cold pressed oils for Indian cooking are gaining popularity for their nutritional value, natural flavour, and minimal processing. Unlike refined oils, cold pressed oils retain antioxidants, vitamins, and good fats, making them ideal for traditional Indian dishes. Popular options include groundnut oil for frying, sesame oil for pickles and curries, mustard oil for North and East Indian cooking, virgin coconut oil for South Indian recipes, sunflower oil for light daily use, and extra virgin olive oil for salads and fusion dishes. Cold pressed oils enhance taste while promoting nutrition, making them a smart choice for Indian kitchens.

When it comes to preparing flavourful, wholesome meals, cold pressed oils for Indian cooking are gaining popularity. At Tata Simply Better, we believe in blending tradition with nutrition, and cold pressed oils are a perfect example of this philosophy.

So, what makes cold pressed oils for Indian cooking so special? And which ones should be in your pantry? This guide has all the answers.

What Are Cold Pressed Oils?

Cold pressing is a traditional oil extraction method where oil is pressed from seeds or nuts at low temperatures - typically below 50°C. This helps retain the oil’s natural aroma, flavour, and nutritional value. There’s no heat, no chemicals, and no refining - just pure, clean oil.

This is what makes cold pressed oils for Indian cooking a better alternative to heavily refined oils.

Why Cold Pressed Oils Are Perfect for Indian Cooking

Indian cooking is diverse - it involves everything from gentle sautéing to deep frying, tadkas, and even raw uses in chutneys or pickles. Here's why cold pressed oils for Indian cooking are the ideal fit:

• Rich Flavour: Enhances the traditional taste of regional dishes.
  
  

• Nutrient-Rich: Retains natural antioxidants, vitamins, and essential fatty acids.
  
  

• Versatile: Ideal for tempering, frying, roasting, and more.
  
  

• Chemical-Free: No artificial additives or preservatives.
  
  

• Supports Digestion: Traditional Indian oils are known for their digestive benefits.
  
  

At Tata Simply Better, we offer a thoughtfully crafted range of cold pressed oils, made from premium A1-grade seeds and nuts, to help you cook the Indian way - just better.

Top Cold Pressed Oils for Indian Cooking

Here are the most commonly used and loved cold pressed oils for Indian cooking, and how they can elevate your everyday meals.

Cold Pressed Groundnut Oil

A staple, especially in Maharashtra, Gujarat, and Tamil Nadu.

Best for: Frying pakoras, cooking poha, and stir-frying vegetables
Taste profile: Mild and nutty
Why it works: High smoke point, rich in good fats, retains the crispiness of fried food without overpowering flavour.

Cold Pressed Sesame (Gingelly) Oil

A hero in Tamil, Telugu, and Kerala cuisines.

Best for: Idli podi, pickles, curries, and traditional sweets
Taste profile: Robust and earthy
Why it works: Packed with antioxidants and vitamin E, it’s revered in Ayurveda for its healing properties.

Cold Pressed Mustard Oil

The go-to oil in East and North Indian cooking.

Best for: Bengali fish curry, achaar, paratha frying
Taste profile: Sharp, pungent flavour
Why it works: Natural antimicrobial properties and great for digestion. Best when heated to its smoking point to mellow the taste.

Cold Pressed Virgin Coconut Oil

South India’s beloved versatile oil

Best for: Sautéing, tempering dals, desserts like payasam
Taste profile: Sweet, tropical notes
Why it works: Rich in lauric acid, excellent for immunity and gives dishes a light, fresh taste.

Cold Pressed Sunflower Oil

A lighter option for daily cooking needs.

Best for: General cooking, light frying, kids’ meals
Taste profile: Neutral
Why it works: Retains natural vitamin E, doesn’t alter the taste of dishes, and is ideal for those who prefer a subtle oil base.

Extra Virgin Olive Oil (Cold Pressed)

While not traditional, it’s finding its way into Indian kitchens.

Best for: Raw use, salad dressings, light sautéing
Taste profile: Fruity, slightly peppery
Why it works: Great source of monounsaturated fats, ideal for conscious cooks wanting variety.

Tips to Cook with Cold Pressed Oils for Indian Cooking

To make the most of cold pressed oils for Indian cooking, here are some easy tips:

• Avoid Overheating: Use low to medium heat for most oils to retain their nutrition.
  

• Store Well: Keep oils in dark, cool places to preserve freshness.
  

• Use According to Smoke Point: Match the oil to the dish - don’t deep-fry in low smoke point oils like olive or sunflower.
  

• Try Blending: For balanced flavour and nutrition, mix oils occasionally.

Why Tata Simply Better Cold Pressed Oils Stand Out

We ensure every bottle of oil is crafted with care, using traditional cold pressing methods and premium A1-grade ingredients. Our range of cold pressed oils for Indian cooking is:

• Free from trans fats and cholesterol
  
  

• Packed with natural nutrients and flavour
  
  

• Ethically sourced and minimally processed
  
  

• Designed to meet the diverse needs of Indian kitchens

With Tata Simply Better, Tata Consumer Products has entered into a new category, with a range of cold-pressed oils aimed at consumers who want to include cold-pressed oils in their kitchens. Tata Simply Better has come with various cold-pressed oils - Groundnut, Virgin Coconut, Sesame, Extra Virgin Olive, Mustard and Sunflower Oil,  that provide a more nutritious alternative to traditional cooking oils.

These oils are carefully extracted to retain their natural goodness, and they are free from trans fats and cholesterol. By using the finest A1-grade ingredients, Tata Simply Better ensures that its products offer a superior culinary experience while promoting overall well-being.