MUSTARD OIL / TEL
Connoisseurs of Indian cooking believe that mustard oil is a must-have in traditional Indian dishes, particularly in the Bengal region of India and Bangladesh. It has a pungent and sharp flavor that gives a unique edge. When it hits the pan, the vapors can clear sinuses and make eyes water.
It’s intense flavor is like no other, and those who love and know Indian food well believe that traditional dishes are not the same without it. While it is most popular in Indian cooking, the love of this oil is gaining quickly around the world despite the controversy around its safety.
The FDA has banned mustard oil from consumption in the USA because some studies have shown that the erucic acid in the oil may be a cause for heart problems in lab rats. However, this was only proven in animal studies, and not in humans. People in India have used it for centuries and continue to use it fearlessly along with others around the world.
HEALTH BENEFITS
Mustard oil has been used for the following benefit:
- Antibacterial
- Antifungal
- Nourish the skin (moisturize, anti-aging)
- Promotes healthy hair and hair growth
- Anti-inflammatory
- Stimulant
It is known to be high in:
- Omega-3 fatty acid
- Monounsaturated fats & polyunsaturated fats
SUBSTITUTES
In its absence, you can used 1/2 teaspoon of dry ground mustard with 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil.