When it comes to Indian cooking, oil is an indispensable ingredient. However, choosing the right oil is crucial especially for heart health. According to renowned cardiologist and functional medicine expert Dr. Alok Chopra, not all oils are created equal, and blindly following global cooking oil trends may not be the best choice for Indian kitchens.In an Instagram video posted on June 15, Dr. Chopra named five science-supported oils that are the most appropriate for Indian cooking. These oils are not fad-based but based on their nutritional value and compatibility with traditional Indian cuisine.
Why is choosing the right cooking oil important
Using the right cooking oil goes beyond just taste; it’s a vital step toward better heart health. Oils rich in unsaturated fats can support cardiovascular wellness, but cutting out all fats isn’t realistic. The key lies in selecting oils that both suit the nutritional needs of your body and enhance the unique flavors of Indian cuisine. Many common Western oils aren’t ideal for Indian cooking methods, which often involve high-heat searing and complex spice blends. That’s why choosing oils that can handle the heat—while also offering health benefits—is essential for both flavor and long-term wellness.
Source: Instagram
5 healthiest oils for Indian cooking besides refined oil
The use of the appropriate oil is a matter of balance, tradition, and science. Dr. Alok Chopra’s top picks include:
- Ghee
- Coconut oil
- Mustard oil
- Sesame oil
- Groundnut oil
Each of these oils is unique in its health benefit and also complements the richness and diversity of Indian food. If you’re regularly cooking Indian food, these five oils are good to have in your pantry—not for flavor alone, but for long-term health. Know more these cooking oil:
India’s healthiest cooking oils recommended
Ghee
Dr. Chopra is a big supporter of ghee, highlighting its immune-stimulating and digestive capabilities. Packed with fat-soluble vitamins A, D, E, and K, ghee promotes enhanced gut health and nutrient uptake. “Ghee is not merely a fat used for cooking—it’s an Indian traditional medicinal superfood,” maintains Dr. Chopra. In spite of its relatively high saturated fat status, ghee has been used in Ayurveda for centuries and is one of the healthiest fats to use in moderation.
Coconut Oil
Coconut oil, which Dr. Chopra also loves, is chock-full of medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs). These molecules of fat are quickly absorbed and turned into energy, so coconut oil is a great choice for brain and gut support. As per the National Institutes of Health (NIH), MCTs not only provide instant energy but also help regulate several metabolic and neurological diseases.
Mustard Oil
Mustard oil is popular in Indian homes and gets a nod from Dr. Chopra due to its anti-inflammatory and heart-protective effects. It has omega-5 fatty acids, which help improve circulation and bring down inflammation. “Mustard oil is one of the few oils that is great with Indian spices and yet is supportive of heart health,” says Dr. Chopra.
Sesame Oil
With its high content of antioxidants and healthy fats, sesame oil is a good backup choice. Dr. Chopra points out its advantages for joint mobility and skin health, and it makes a valuable all-around option that feeds the body internally. Sesame oil is commonly employed in South Indian and Ayurvedic cuisine and also contains natural anti-inflammatory and anti-aging properties.
Groundnut Oil
Last but not least, groundnut oil (peanut oil) finds a place on Dr. Chopra’s list due to its good fat profile and plant sterol, which reduce cholesterol levels. Moderation is, however, the word. “Groundnut oil is good for the heart, but as with all oils, it must be consumed wisely,” warns Dr. Chopra. Its lack of flavour and high smoke point make it perfect for deep frying and day-to-day Indian cuisine.
A word of caution on cooking oils!
In an earlier report, Dr. Chopra cautioned that the ingestion of the inappropriate type of cooking oil, particularly refined oils containing high levels of trans fats, will enhance the risk of heart disease, cancer, and obesity. Selecting oils by trends without regard for their compatibility with Indian cooking practices can be more harmful than beneficial.Also Read | Sea salt, pink salt, Celtic salt: Experts say these ‘fancy’ salts may secretly harm your heart health
