Coconut oil comes from the coconut’s flesh. It can be used as a replacement for butter and vice versa. Moreover, it can be used in cooking, beauty products, skincare, etc. It solidifies at room temperature and melts at 24°C, and cannot withstand high temperatures. If you’re finding an alternative for it because of the flavor, an allergy, you ran out of it or didn’t have it in your pantry: we got you covered, but remember that the best substitute for coconut oil depends on the purpose you’re using it for. Arguably, olive oil is the most convenient choice, although there are several alternatives to try out there – be it walnut, almond, avocado, vegetable or sunflower oil. But be aware, for the grocery store can be a battlefield if you’re not well-acquainted with what’s what. Each option possesses distinct flavor depiction, cooking directions, and health benefits.
Here, we’ve combined six coconut oil replacements that you may have stored in your cabinet already.
Six best substitutes for coconut oil
1. Almond Oil
Almond oil is one of the best sources of Vitamin E. It has a nutty taste, which makes it an excellent option for complementary dishes. Its smoke point is high (216°C), and it is preferable for frying in a pan and baked products.
It works best for cakes, cookies, and muffins.
A bit more expensive than other alternatives and is not commonly used for cooking, almond oil is superb for skin and hair care. It doesn’t clog the pores, doesn’t make the skin oily, and can be easily absorbed by the skin. It is an excellent treatment for the hair as it contains Vitamin A, B, D, and E. It revitalizes the skin and strengthens the hair. It is primarily used to moisturize the skin, mainly on the inflamed or irritated parts of your skin.
2. Avocado Oil
Almond oil consists of oleic acid and is obtained from the pulp of the fruit. It helps to reduce inflammation in the human body. In contrast to olive oil, it is more neutral in taste once it’s cooked. It has a buttery texture and a pleasant grassy flavor. It is excellent for baking, grilling, and sautéed dishes as it has a smoke point as high as that of 271°C. It is not commonly used as a cooking oil but more for body, hair, face, and skin. It moisturizes and protects the skin from irritation and infections as it is rich in nutrients, vitamins, antioxidants, and volatile organic compounds.
It is excellent for grilled meat, salad, soups, and curries.
3. Hemp Seed Oil
The hemp seed oil has a translucent green color. It is exceptionally rich in fatty acids, which are essential for improving brain function, energy production, and strengthening the immune system. It is perfect for salad dressings as it has a strong earthy taste. It is best to use it at room temperature or when cold, as it happens to lose most of its nutritional value when heated. It protects the skin against oxidation and skin damage. It is the best choice for those who avoid the use of butter or canola oil due to health reasons.
It is best for dips, marinades, and pesto.
4. Olive Oil
Undoubtedly, the most widely used and most straightforward alternative for coconut oil is olive oil. It is highly versatile and is ample in monounsaturated fatty acids. With a smoke point of 210°C, it is ideal for cooking. Olive oil is ubiquitous and is found in almost every household. It is a natural moisturizer and reduces dandruff and irritation on the scalp. It also has regenerative and healing properties for the skin.
It is best for salad dressings, sautéing and frying.
5. Grapeseed Oil
Grapeseed oil is mainly obtained from polyunsaturated fats. It is low on saturated fat and is cholesterol-free. It is an excellent choice for salad dressings that, when chilled, won’t separate. It has a light and crisp flavor, and it amalgamates well. It has a high smoke point of 205°C, which is excellent for sautéing and frying. It is fat-soluble, which makes it a terrifically flexible choice for creamy dressings that don’t separate when chilled.
It is best for roasted vegetables, mayonnaise, salad, and creamy dressings.
6. Sunflower seed Oil
Sunflower oil is obtained from the seed of the sunflower. It contains less cholesterol and is rich in monosaturated fatty acids, phytosterols, Vitamin E, K, and oleic acid. Sunflower oil has a high smoke point of 230°C, due to which it can withstand high temperatures. Sunflower is an excellent alternative for coconut oil. It is rich in crucial antioxidants along with fatty acids and Vitamin A, D, E, which helps protect heart health, cholesterol levels and reduce the risk of chronic disease. It increases the appearance and luster of your hair and protects your skin from sun damage because of certain carotenoids it contains. Its color is light amber and has a light flavor. It can be used in a wide range of applications and the same quantity as that of coconut oil. It has oleic acid, selenium, and conjugated linoleic in abundance, which contributes to anti-cancer effects. However, clinical evidence and additional research are required to support the anti-cancer benefits.
Conclusion
In the end, you decide what is appropriate for you. Whether or not you agree to these critics about the best substitutes for coconut oil, it is always beneficial to use a little of everything. However, it’s up to you why or not you use specific things. So now, whenever your kitchen or skincare calls for a substitute for coconut oil, you remember these alternatives and work them out. No wonder coconut oil is a blessing of God with its so many benefits, but many people are deprived of this blessing due to allergy, unlikeliness for its flavor, or just averse to its taste. But no worries, we’re here to help you, and these substitutes might work for you.
FUN FACT: Some people tend to use coconut oil for dental hygiene.
Have a nice day ahead!
