7 Best Sesame Oil Substitutes Depending on What You’re Cooking

Sesame oil, a staple in kitchens around the globe, is celebrated for its distinctive nutty flavor and versatility in cooking. Esteemed among chefs and home cooks alike, it plays a pivotal role in an array of culinary traditions, especially within Asian cuisine. Its unique taste and aroma can elevate a simple dish to something truly extraordinary, making it a cherished ingredient in the culinary world.

What is Sesame Oil and What Does it Taste Like?

Derived from sesame seeds, sesame oil is renowned for its rich, nutty flavor and deep amber color. There are primarily two types available: light sesame oil, which is extracted from raw sesame seeds and has a subtle flavor, making it suitable for cooking and frying; and toasted sesame oil, which is made from toasted seeds, offering a stronger, more pronounced taste. This darker variant is typically used as a flavor enhancer in marinades, dressings, and as a finishing oil.

Substitutes for Sesame Oil

When sesame oil is unavailable or if you're seeking an alternative due to allergies or dietary preferences, there are several suitable substitutes, each serving different culinary needs:

1. For Stir-Frying: Peanut Oil

Peanut oil is an excellent alternative, with a high smoke point and a mildly nutty flavor that can withstand high temperatures without burning, making it ideal for stir-frying and sautéing.

2. For Flavor: Walnut Oil

Walnut oil offers a rich, nutty flavor that, while not identical, can mimic the depth of flavor sesame oil provides. It's best used in dressings or drizzled over dishes as a finishing oil to impart a delicate nuttiness.

3. For Asian Cooking: Perilla Oil

The perilla oil is derived from the seeds of the perilla plant, is used in Korean cuisine and offers a flavor profile similar to sesame oil. Its unique aroma and taste make it a suitable substitute in salads, marinades, and for seasoning dishes.

4. In Teriyaki Sauce: Grapeseed Oil

Grapeseed oil, when combined with a dash of soy sauce can be used as a substitute for sesame oil in teriyaki sauce. Grapeseed oil has a mild taste and the soy sauce adds the umami and depth that sesame oil would contribute.

5. General Substitute: Sunflower Oil and Canola Oil

Sunflower oil and canola oil can be used for their neutral flavors and high smoke points, making them versatile for various cooking methods. While they lack the distinct taste of sesame oil, they can be used as a base in recipes where sesame oil's flavor is not the central focus.

6. For Cold Dishes and Dressings: Extra Virgin Olive Oil

Extra virgin olive oils, especially those with a fruity note, can be a good substitute in dressings and cold dishes. Though it has a different flavor profile, it can add a unique character to the dish.