Peanut Oil
花生油
What Is Peanut Oil?
Peanut oil (花生油, huā shēng yóu) is the traditional cooking oil of Chinese cuisine, especially for stir-frying and deep-frying. It has a high smoke point (230°C/450°F), neutral flavor, and subtle nuttiness that complements Chinese dishes without overpowering them.
Why It's the Default
- High smoke point — won't burn at wok temperatures
- Neutral but slightly nutty — enhances flavor
- Doesn't transfer flavors — you can fry multiple dishes
- The foundation of wok hei — that smoky wok flavor starts with the right oil
How to Use It
Use peanut oil for high-heat cooking: stir-frying, deep-frying, and pan-frying. It's the oil you'll reach for 90% of the time in Chinese cooking.
Pro tip: Refined peanut oil has a higher smoke point and neutral flavor (better for stir-frying). Cold-pressed/unrefined peanut oil has more flavor but a lower smoke point (better for dressings).
Taste & Flavor Profile
How to Use
It
Use peanut oil for **high-heat cooking**: stir-frying, deep-frying, and pan-frying. It's the oil you'll reach for 90% of the time in Chinese cooking. **Pro tip:** Refined peanut oil has a higher smoke point and neutral flavor (better for stir-frying). Cold-pressed/unrefined peanut oil has more flavor but a lower smoke point (better for dressings).
Best Substitutes
Can't find Peanut Oil? Here are the best alternatives, ranked by similarity.
High smoke point, neutral flavor. Works identically for stir-frying.
High smoke point, clean flavor. Slightly more expensive.
Works but less flavor. Fine for most dishes.
Where to Buy
Available at most Asian grocery stores and online. Look for bright, aromatic specimens.
