When it comes to cooking oil in Indian kitchens, every household has a staple favourite. Oil becomes more than an ingredient - it becomes a part of the recipe. Some dishes need balance, while others need boldness - and the oil you choose can shape the flavour, texture and even nutrition of your meal!
Groundnut and mustard oil are two time-tested favourites, each with its own role to play in the kitchen. The real question isn’t which one is better - it’s when to use which, and why. Here’s what you need to know about each oil to make the right choice for your plate:
SMOKE POINT
Groundnut oil has a naturally-high smoke point of approximately 160°C, making it perfect for deep frying, sautéing, high-heat cooking and more! Mustard oil holds up incredibly well to heat as well, with a whooping smoke point of approximately 250°C! This one, however, is more commonly used for tadkas, pickling and other high-heat cooking that uses the oil’s warming effect.
FLAVOUR NOTES
Groundnut oil has a warm, nutty aroma and a mild flavour that blends well into most dishes without overpowering them. It enhances but never dominates. Mustard oil, by contrast, is bold and sharp with a distinctive pungency - perfect when you want the oil to speak for itself and do more than just carry the flavours of the ingredients!
USAGE
Use groundnut oil when you’re looking for versatility: for tadkas, roasting, frying, or daily cooking. It adds depth without changing the identity of the dish. Mustard oil shines in dishes that need heat, bold flavours, or a bit of sharpness - like tempering dals, cooking seasonal leafy greens, or finishing pickles.
NUTRIENT BENEFITS
Both oils are rich in healthy fats. Groundnut oil contains heart-supporting Monounsaturated Fatty Acids and natural antioxidants like Vitamin E. Mustard oil is a good source of Omega-3 (ALA) and also supports cholesterol balance when used mindfully!
So, which should you use?
The honest answer: both.
Think of them as ingredients, not just base oils. Use groundnut oil when you want balance and neutrality. Use mustard oil when your dish calls for sharpness, heat, and depth. What matters most is choosing pure, responsibly made oils - and knowing when to let them shine.
At Gem’s Gold, we’ve stayed true to tradition while making the best of modern innovations for your oil. Our cold-pressed groundnut and mustard oils are made the old way - with care, clean processes, and no additives. Just like they’ve always been.