Understand the difference between Cold Pressed and Refined Oils and how each fits into Indian cooking. Learn how Cold Pressed and Refined Oils are made, where they are commonly used, and how to choose the right oil for everyday Indian meals with Tata Simply Better.

Cold Pressed and Refined Oils are a part of almost every Indian kitchen, often used without much thought - yet the way they are made and used can influence cooking styles, flavours, and everyday food habits. In Indian homes, oils are more than just cooking mediums; they play a role in tadkas, frying, slow cooking, and even festive recipes.

At Tata Simply Better, we believe understanding Cold Pressed and Refined Oils helps home cooks make more informed choices that suit their recipes, traditions, and lifestyles.

What Are Cold Pressed and Refined Oils?

To understand Cold Pressed and Refined Oils, it helps to start with how they are made.

Cold pressed oils are extracted by pressing seeds or nuts at low temperatures. This process focuses on retaining the natural aroma, texture, and character of the ingredient.

Refined oils, on the other hand, go through multiple stages of processing to achieve a lighter colour, neutral flavour, and longer shelf life.

Both Cold Pressed and Refined Oils exist to serve different cooking needs - and neither is “one-size-fits-all.”

How Cold Pressed and Refined Oils Are Commonly Used in Indian Kitchens

Indian cooking is diverse, and so is the use of oils.

Cold Pressed and Refined Oils are often chosen based on the dish, region, and cooking method.

• Cold pressed oils are commonly used for traditional cooking, slow cooking, and recipes where aroma matters
  

• Refined oils are often chosen for deep frying or recipes that require a neutral base
  

• Many households keep both Cold Pressed and Refined Oils for different purposes

This balance is what makes Indian kitchens so versatile.

Taste, Aroma, and Cooking Experience

One noticeable difference between Cold Pressed and Refined Oils is how they behave during cooking.

Cold pressed oils usually carry a distinct aroma and flavour, which can enhance dishes like curries, dals, chutneys, and regional preparations.

Refined oils tend to stay in the background, allowing spices and main ingredients to take centre stage - especially useful in fast cooking or high-heat methods.

Understanding this difference helps home cooks decide which oil suits a specific recipe best.

Cooking Methods and Oil Choices

Different cooking methods call for different oils, which is why Cold Pressed and Refined Oils often coexist in Indian homes.

• Tadka and tempering: Cold pressed oils add depth and aroma
  

• Slow-cooked gravies: Cold pressed oils blend well with spices
  

• Deep frying: Refined oils are often preferred due to their neutral profile
  

• Everyday stir-frying: Either can be used, depending on taste preference

Knowing when to use Cold Pressed and Refined Oils can elevate everyday cooking without changing recipes.

Storage, Shelf Life, and Practical Considerations

Another key difference between Cold Pressed and Refined Oils lies in storage and shelf life.

Cold pressed oils are usually best stored away from heat and sunlight to preserve their natural characteristics.

Refined oils generally have a longer shelf life and are easier to store, making them convenient for bulk use.

This is why many Indian households choose to keep a mix of Cold Pressed and Refined Oils, depending on usage frequency.

Choosing Between Cold Pressed and Refined Oils for Daily Cooking

Instead of thinking in terms of “better” or “worse,” it helps to think of Cold Pressed and Refined Oils as tools.

Ask yourself:

• What dish am I cooking today?
  

• Does this recipe rely on aroma or neutrality?
  

• Is the cooking method slow, medium, or high heat?

Answering these questions naturally guides the choice between Cold Pressed and Refined Oils.

Why Tata Simply Better Focuses on Thoughtful Oil Choices

At Tata Simply Better, we believe cooking oils should support the way Indian households actually cook - with variety, tradition, and practicality.

Our range of oils is crafted with attention to sourcing, processing, and consistency, so home cooks can confidently choose oils that suit different recipes and cooking styles.

Understanding Cold Pressed and Refined Oils is part of making everyday cooking simpler and more intentional.

Modern Indian Cooking Is About Balance

Today’s Indian kitchens blend tradition with convenience. Breakfasts may be quick, lunches practical, and dinners nostalgic. Cold Pressed and Refined Oils both have a role to play in this rhythm.

Using the right oil at the right time helps maintain flavour, texture, and consistency across meals - without overcomplicating the process.

Final Kitchen Takeaway

Cold Pressed and Refined Oils are not rivals - they are complements. Each brings something different to the table, and understanding their differences helps home cooks use them more effectively.

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.