What is linseed oil?
Linseed oil is the oil that comes from the seeds of the flax plant, our familiar linseed.
Edible linseed oil is produced by cold pressing, without heating, and has a golden yellow color and a mild, nutty flavor with a slightly bitter aftertaste.
It is one of the vegetable oils with the highest content of omega-3 fatty acids, specifically α-linolenic acid (ALA).
Edible linseed oil or linseed oil for wood?;
In the market you will also find linoleum for wood, for painting or for maintaining tools.
This is usually boiled or processed with desiccants and is not eaten.
In cooking, we only use edible, cold-pressed linseed oil, which is sold as food.
How we use linseed oil in cooking
Linseed oil is eaten raw.
It is not suitable for frying, baking or cooking, because heat alters its flavor and fats.
Some simple ideas:
- In salads, plain or half and half with olive oil.
- On top of hot foods, such as legumes, potatoes or steamed vegetables, at the moment you serve them.
- In yogurt or cottage cheese, with a pinch of salt and fresh herbs.
- In smoothies and vegetable juices.
- In dips, such as hummus or eggplant salad, for a fuller flavor.
How to store linseed oil
The omega-3 fats in flaxseed oil are easily oxidized by light, heat, and air.
That's why we store it in the refrigerator, in a dark bottle, tightly closed.
After opening, it is best to consume it within a few weeks.
If it smells strong or has a bitter, rancid taste, it has spoiled.
Flaxseed oil and omega-3
Flaxseed oil is one of the richest plant sources of alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), an omega-3 fatty acid.
Alpha-linolenic acid (ALA) contributes to maintaining normal blood cholesterol levels.
The beneficial effect is achieved with a daily intake of 2 g of ALA, an amount that corresponds to approximately one teaspoon of flaxseed oil.
A varied and balanced diet and a healthy lifestyle are important.
Frequently asked questions
Can I fry with linseed oil?;
No.
Linseed oil is not for cooking; we add it raw to the dish.
What is the difference between linseed oil and flaxseed?;
Flaxseed is the whole seed, with its fiber.
Linseed oil is just the oil from the seed.
Where can I find edible linseed oil?;
At Μπακαλόκαρπος you will find cold-pressed organic linseed oil, in the store in Kypseli and online.
