Sesame oil is a type of cooking oil made from sesame seeds. Common in Asian cuisine, sesame oil also has a number of health benefits and is a good source of polyunsaturated fatty acids, monounsaturated fats and antioxidants. If you are in the middle of cooking and notice you do not have any sesame oil, don’t order a pizza yet. Although sesame oil has a distinct flavor, you can substitute other cooking oils. To get the same taste, add toasted sesame seeds to your meal.
Sesame oil is available in light and dark varieties. Although dark sesame oil has a stronger flavor, you can use these sesame oils interchangeably.
Peanut oil
Olive oil
Skillet
Vegetable or canola oil
Sesame seeds
Peanuts
Step 1
Substitute an equal amount of peanut oil for sesame oil in your recipe. Peanut oil fits well in most Asian dishes. If you have an allergy to sesame seeds, this is your best alternative.
Step 2
Use an equal amount of olive oil to replace sesame oil. Olive oil also contains healthy fats, similar to sesame oil, and it can serve as a good substitution.
Step 3
Make your own sesame oil. Heat vegetable or canola oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Use 1/2 teaspoon of oil for every tablespoon of sesame oil you need. Add sesame seeds to the pan and saute for a few minutes. You will need 1 1/2 teaspoons of sesame seeds for every tablespoon of sesame oil.
Step 4
Add a handful of roasted peanuts to your dish along with any other type of cooking oil. Although peanuts do not have the same flavor, they can add a nutty taste to your food that is similar to sesame oil.
Tips
Things You'll Need
References
Tips
- Sesame oil is available in light and dark varieties. Although dark sesame oil has a stronger flavor, you can use these sesame oils interchangeably.
Writer Bio
Ireland Wolfe has been writing professionally since 2009, contributing to Toonari Post, Africana Online and Winzer Insurance. She obtained her Bachelor of Arts in psychology and Master of Arts in mental health counseling. She is also a licensed mental health counselor, registered nutritionist and yoga teacher.