Coconuts are considered to be incredibly healthy and are popular in most countries in the world. They come from palm trees and are used in different forms.
One such form is coconut oil which comes with many of the benefits that coconuts provide. The oil comes from a mature coconut’s flesh that is put through a few methods to produce the oil.
There are two main types of coconut oil: unrefined and refined coconut oil. The most common use of this oil is in cooking. It is mostly used in vegan baking and can be used as a substitute for butter. For storage, it is kept at room temperatures so that it stays liquid in form.
What if you come across a recipe that calls for coconut oil and you don’t like or have it? What can you use instead?
Substitutes for Coconut Oil
There are ten substitutes you can use instead of coconut oil. Let’s take a look at each of them.
1. Butter
It is on top of the list of substitutes for coconut oil in many recipes, especially in baking. Much like coconut oil, butter is also solid at room temperature.
Using butter in your recipe will give you a better texture and will add richness to your dishes. Because of this, your food will be delicious and have more moisture. You can use equal amounts as required or adjust it according to your taste.
2. Sunflower Oil
It is a very healthy oil that is rich in vitamins and antioxidants and is quite nourishing.
The oil can not only improve the appearance of your food but also safeguard your health. Due to its high smoking point, sunflower oil is recommended for use in the majority of recipes, particularly those that call for frying. This oil may be used to bake bread, make muffins, and prepare a variety of savory foods.
3. Almond Oil
This substitute is a bit more costly than other options. It is also a healthy option that we highly recommend.
Almond oil has a nutty flavor and complements savory dishes. When using it, adjust it based on your preference, as its taste is much stronger and can affect other flavors.
It is also good for frying as it has a high smoking point. You can also use the oil in baking cakes, muffins, and other baked foods.
4. Extra Virgin Olive Oil
The most common substitute and the simplest oil, extra virgin olive oil, is a great replacement for coconut oil.
It has minerals and antioxidants, and you can use it in many products. If you substitute coconut oil with this oil, use equal amounts according to the recipe.
Although this oil works with many recipes, it is not good for baking due to its strong flavor. You can, however, use it in dressings, soups, salads, and multiple other dishes.
Related: Best Olive Oil Sprayer Reviews 2022: Top 5+ Recommended
5. Neem Oil
Most popular in India, Neem oil is another great replacement for coconut oil. The oil has a bitter taste and is most commonly used in skincare products.
Despite that, you can still use the oil for cooking. It is nutritious and works well with most dishes. You can use a measure based on your preference.
6. Shea Butter
The most famed product, especially in skincare, is Shea butter. It is also another fitting replacement for coconut oil, and using it in cooking improves your health.
When substituting it for coconut oil, ensure you use unrefined Shea butter. Use similar amounts or adjust according to your taste.
7. Hazelnut Oil
Hazelnut oil is a nutritious source of minerals and vitamins, and you can also use it as a coconut oil replacement. It has a tasty and intense flavor that will give you great results.
The oil has a high smoking point, and you can use it for frying, grilling, roasting, and other cooking methods that require you to use coconut oil.
You can add hazelnut oil to sauces and other dishes. It will also add the perfect flavor to your baked goods, thanks to its nutty flavor.
8. Hempseed Oil
It is a healthy oil and contains many essential fatty acids necessary for the provision of energy. The oil has a strong, earthy taste, making it the perfect oil to use for sauces, dressings, and salads. You can also use hemp seed oil for marinades, dips, or any recipe that calls for coconut oil.
9. Grapeseed Oil
Though this oil has a mild taste, it is a great substitute for coconut oil. It is rich in antioxidants and is commonly used in most dishes.
It also has a high smoking point, and you can use it in frying, roasting, salads, sauces, and dressings. You can also use the oil for baking, whereby you can use equal amounts as you would coconut oil.
10. Avocado Oil
The last oil on our list is avocado oil. It has a milder taste and is a great substitute. It has a high smoking point, making it suitable for most recipes.
It is a healthy oil and contains many vitamins and minerals. It is suitable for cooking on medium-high heat and for baking. Measure similar amounts when replacing coconut oil.
As seen above, coconut oil isn’t at all hard to replace, and you can still prepare a delicious dish without it. The above substitutes are as healthy and nutritious as coconut oil. You can use them to replace the oil in the recipe you are using, and there won’t be much of a change. Nevertheless, Be mindful of the taste of the food you’re making since all substitutes differ and can change based on your recipe, ingredients, and the cooking method you use.
Related Questions
Can I use olive oil instead of coconut oil?
Yes, you can. Olive oil is also a plant-based oil like coconut oil. You can replace it using the ratio of 1:1. It is not recommended that you use olive oil in baking, but you can use it in soups and other recipes.
Can you substitute vegetable oil for coconut oil?
Of course, you can! Vegetable oil is a good replacement. Use equal amounts if you replace it in your recipe, and you can use it in most recipes.
Related: Is Canola Oil The Same As Vegetable Oil?
Can you substitute butter for coconut oil in baking?
Butter is one of the best coconut oil replacements. It has a solid texture, so you can either melt it according to the recipe or leave it at room temperature. Use the same amount required in the recipe.
Will my food have a different taste if I substitute coconut oil?
It will depend on the type of oil you choose. If the oil has a mild taste, you may not notice the change. However, if the oil has a strong taste, you may notice a slightly different flavor. Your meal will still be as delicious, but it may taste somewhat different than it would with coconut oil.