Cooking oils are at the heart of every Indian kitchen. From the crackle of mustard seeds in hot oil to the nutty aroma of groundnut oil or the earthy depth of sesame oil, each variety carries centuries of tradition, flavor, and health wisdom. In Indian households, the choice of oil is not random; it is tied to culture, geography, and even health beliefs passed down through generations.

For those living in Berlin, recreating authentic Indian dishes often starts with finding the right cooking oil. Whether it’s frying crispy pakoras in mustard oil, preparing a peanut chutney with groundnut oil, or tempering dal with ghee and sesame oil, the base you choose shapes the entire dish.

The good news is that today, Indian and Asian grocery stores in Berlin, such as Anant Supermarkt, offer a wide range of traditional oils to suit every cooking style.

This guide will explore the most essential Indian cooking oils: mustard oil, groundnut oil, sesame oil, coconut oil, and more. It will also look at their culinary uses, health benefits, and availability in Berlin. By the end, you’ll know exactly which oil to use for which dish, and where to find it near you.

Mustard Oil: The Soul of North Indian & Bengali Cooking

If there is one oil that stands out as the heart of Indian cooking traditions, it is mustard oil. Known for its sharp aroma, pungent flavor, and ability to elevate even the simplest dishes, mustard oil has been a staple in Indian households for centuries.

1. Culinary Uses of Mustard Oil

• Bengali Cuisine: In West Bengal, mustard oil is almost synonymous with home cooking. Dishes like shorshe ilish (hilsa fish in mustard sauce) or aloo posto (potatoes with poppy seeds) rely heavily on its strong, spicy character.

• North Indian Cooking: In Punjab and Uttar Pradesh, mustard oil is commonly used for making pickles (achar), frying pakoras, and even in curries like sarson ka saag.

• Tadka (Tempering): A spoonful of hot mustard oil infused with cumin, mustard seeds, or garlic can instantly transform dals and vegetable dishes.

2. Varieties of Mustard Oil

• Kachi Ghani Mustard Oil: This is cold-pressed, retaining maximum flavor and nutrients. It is best for traditional cooking, pickling, and deep frying.

• Refined Mustard Oil: Lighter in taste and aroma, suitable for those who prefer less pungency.

3. Health Benefits of Mustard Oil

Mustard oil is not just about flavor; it has long been praised in Ayurveda for its therapeutic properties.

• Rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which support heart health.

• Contains antibacterial and antifungal properties, making it a natural preservative for pickles.

• Known to stimulate digestion and appetite.

• Used externally as well for massages and even in hair care.

4. Mustard Oil in Berlin

For Indians living in Berlin, mustard oil is essential but not always easy to find in regular supermarkets. Thankfully, Anant Supermarkt stocks trusted brands like Fortune Kachi Ghani, Patanjali Mustard Oil, and Tez Mustard Oil. Whether you’re preparing festive Bengali meals or just want that authentic North Indian pickle flavor, you’ll find the right option here.

Groundnut Oil: The Unsung Hero of Indian Kitchens

While mustard oil dominates the culinary traditions of North and East India, groundnut oil (also called peanut oil) quietly plays a key role in many other regions. Mild in taste, versatile in cooking, and full of health benefits, it is one of the most reliable oils for everyday Indian meals.

1. Culinary Uses of Groundnut Oil

• Gujarati Cooking: Groundnut oil is the foundation of Gujarati cuisine. It’s used in everyday dishes like shaak (vegetable curries), thepla, and snacks like dhokla and farsan.

• Deep Frying: Thanks to its high smoke point, groundnut oil is ideal for deep frying samosas, kachoris, pakoras, and even South Indian snacks like murukku.

• Versatile Flavor: Unlike mustard oil, which has a pungent aroma, groundnut oil is neutral, making it perfect for both traditional curries and fusion cooking.

2. Varieties of Groundnut Oil

• Cold-Pressed (Wood-Pressed) Groundnut Oil: Retains natural nutrients, flavor, and aroma; ideal for health-conscious cooking.

• Refined Groundnut Oil: Light in taste and texture, often used for large-scale frying in restaurants and households.

3. Health Benefits of Groundnut Oil

• Rich in monounsaturated fats, which help maintain healthy cholesterol levels.

• Contains vitamin E, known for its antioxidant properties.

• Supports heart health and helps reduce inflammation.

• Because of its light flavor, it encourages healthier cooking without overpowering other ingredients.

4. Groundnut Oil in Berlin

For Indians in Berlin, groundnut oil is indispensable for recreating the flavors of home. At Anant Supermarkt, you’ll find popular and authentic brands like Dhara Groundnut Oil, Fortune, and even organic cold-pressed options for those who prefer unrefined varieties. Whether you’re frying crispy pakoras for tea-time or cooking a wholesome Gujarati meal, this oil ensures the authentic taste.