OILS
Coconut oil used to have a bad reputation because it contains saturated fat. But new studies are showing that saturated fats are mostly harmless. Also, coconut oil contains medium-chain fatty acids (different from meat) which are metabolized differently. Some of the health benefits of coconut oil include improving digestion, killing Candida, decreasing wrinkles and age spots, burning fat and so on. Coconut oil is great for cooking at a high heat because of its high smoke point. And it is great for raw desserts.
Dark sesame oil is pressed from toasted sesame seeds, which gives it a cola-like color. It is great for seasoning. You can add it to foods just before serving to give them a rich, toasted sesame flavor.
Extra-virgin olive oil – Living in Dalmatia on Adriatic coast gives us access to best quality olive oil. Health benefits of extra virgin olive oil are widely known. It is wise to use it for seasoning and cooking at low temperatures because of its low smoking point.
Sunflower oils are cheaper oils that can be used for just about any purpose. Their light taste makes these oils good substitutes for butter or margarine in most recipes. Unfortunately, these oils are polyunsaturated, which is really unhealthy. Use sparingly.
Flaxseed oil is an excellent source of omega-3 fatty acids. You can use it for salads but don’t cook with it. It should be kept in the fridge otherwise it could go rancid.
VINEGARS
Apple cider vinegar is the best choice for adding some acidity to your salads. It has been praised as a miracle food, from helping with weight loss to controlling blood sugar and lowering cholesterol.
Umeboshi vinegar is made from Japanese pickled plums. Its powerful acidity has a great alkalinizing effect on the body, neutralizing fatigue, stimulating the digestion, and promoting the elimination of toxins. It is also used as a hangover cure in the far east.
Balsamic vinegar – The real balsamic vinegar is really expensive and in stores, they usually sell imitation of the balsamic vinegar, which is basically cheap wine vinegar with coloring added to it. We like it but don’t use it as much for the reasons above.
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Photo source: Freepik
