What can I use instead of sesame oil?

There are several excellent substitutes for sesame oil, depending on what you need. If you’re looking for a nutty flavor, try peanut oil, walnut oil, or perilla oil. For a neutral substitute, grapeseed oil, canola oil, or sunflower oil works well. If you need an alternative for high-heat cooking, avocado oil or peanut oil is a great choice. For salad dressings or cold dishes, olive oil or flaxseed oil can be used. If you want a homemade option, you can make your own sesame-infused oil by toasting sesame seeds and blending them with neutral oil.

How important is sesame oil in a recipe?

Sesame oil plays an important role in many dishes, especially in Asian cuisine, where it adds a deep, nutty aroma and rich flavor. In stir-fries, sauces, and marinades, sesame oil enhances the overall taste, making the dish more flavorful and aromatic. In some recipes, especially those using toasted sesame oil, the flavor can be difficult to replicate exactly. However, if you don’t have sesame oil, you can still achieve delicious results by choosing the right substitute that matches the flavor and cooking method of your dish.

Can you leave out sesame oil?

Yes, you can omit sesame oil from a recipe, but it may slightly alter the flavor and texture. If sesame oil is a key ingredient, like in stir-fries, dressings, or dipping sauces, it’s best to replace it with an oil that has a similar nutty taste, such as roasted peanut oil or perilla oil. If sesame oil is only used in small amounts for added flavor, you can leave it out and use another ingredient like soy sauce, tahini, or a mild-flavored oil to balance the dish.

Is sesame oil and olive oil the same thing?

No, sesame oil and olive oil are quite different. Sesame oil has a nutty, toasty flavor and is often used to add depth to Asian dishes. It can be either regular (light) sesame oil, which has a mild taste, or toasted sesame oil, which is much stronger and richer. Olive oil, on the other hand, has a fruity, grassy flavor and is commonly used in Mediterranean cuisine. Olive oil is great for salad dressings, marinades, and light sautéing, but it does not have the same nutty intensity as sesame oil. However, in some recipes, olive oil can still work as a substitute if you’re looking for a healthy and widely available alternative.

Sesame Oil Alternative: 12 Best Options for Flavor and Cooking Versatility

Description

This homemade sesame oil substitute is a quick and easy alternative for when you run out of store-bought sesame oil. Made by toasting sesame seeds and blending them with a neutral oil, this recipe creates a rich, nutty flavor that works well in stir-fries, marinades, and dressings.

Ingredients

Scale

¼ cup sesame seeds (white or black)
½ cup neutral oil (grapeseed, canola, or vegetable oil)

Instructions

Toast the sesame seeds: Heat a dry skillet over medium heat. Add the sesame seeds and toast them for 3-5 minutes, stirring constantly until they become golden brown and fragrant. Be careful not to burn them.
Blend with neutral oil: Transfer the toasted sesame seeds to a blender or food processor. Add the neutral oil and blend until well combined.
Strain the oil: Use a fine-mesh strainer or cheesecloth to remove any solid bits of sesame seeds.
Store properly: Pour the oil into an airtight jar and store it in a cool, dark place for up to 2 weeks.

Notes

For a stronger sesame flavor, increase the amount of sesame seeds.
Works best in stir-fries, marinades, and Asian-inspired dishes.
Shake well before use, as the flavor may settle over time.

Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 5 minutes
Category: Condiments & Sauces
Method: Blending
Cuisine: Asian

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 tbsp
Calories: 120
Sugar: 0g
Sodium: 0mg
Fat: 14g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Unsaturated Fat: 12g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 0g
Fiber: 0g
Protein: 0g
Cholesterol: 0mg

Keywords: homemade sesame oil, sesame oil alternative, sesame oil substitute, toasted sesame oil replacement, DIY sesame oil, nutty cooking oil