Top 8 Best Coconut Oils for Cooking

Coconut oil has become a popular ingredient in the kitchen due to its versatility and health benefits. It is a great alternative to traditional cooking oils and can be used in a variety of dishes, from stir-fries to baked goods. However, not all coconut oils are created equal, and finding the right one for cooking can be a daunting task.

When looking for the best coconut oil for cooking, it is important to pay attention to the type of oil you are purchasing. Virgin coconut oil is the least processed and retains more of its natural flavor and aroma, making it a great choice for cooking. On the other hand, refined coconut oil has a neutral flavor and higher smoke point, making it better for high-heat cooking.

Another important factor to consider is the quality of the coconut oil. Look for oils that are organic, non-GMO, and cold-pressed to ensure that you are getting the purest and most nutritious oil possible.

After researching and testing various coconut oils, we have identified the top options for cooking. Whether you are looking for a rich and flavorful virgin oil or a neutral and high-heat refined oil, we have got you covered.

Top 3 Best Coconut Oils for Cooking

1. Carrington Farms Liquid Coconut Cooking Oil
2. Nutiva Organic Coconut Oil
3. BetterBody Foods Naturally Refined Organic Coconut Oil

We have researched and tested various coconut oils to bring you the best options for cooking. Coconut oil is a versatile ingredient that can be used for frying, baking, sautéing, and more. It is a healthier alternative to traditional cooking oils and adds a delicious flavor to your dishes. In this roundup, we have included coconut oils that are organic, virgin, cold-pressed, and non-GMO. These oils have a high smoke point and are ideal for high-heat cooking. So, without further ado, here are the best coconut oils for cooking.

We highly recommend Carrington Farms Liquid Coconut Cooking Oil as a healthy and tasty alternative to traditional oils.

Pros

• Carrington Farms Liquid Coconut Cooking Oil is gluten-free, hexane-free, and non-GMO.
• It is rich in Medium Chain Triglycerides (MCT), which aid in calorie burning and energy production.
• The oil has a high smoke point, making it perfect for cooking, sautéing, and baking.

Cons

• The oil is unflavored and may not be suitable for those who prefer coconut-flavored oil.
• The bottle is not very large, so you may need to purchase multiple bottles if you use it frequently.
• The oil may solidify in colder temperatures, so you may need to warm it up before using it.

We found that Carrington Farms Liquid Coconut Cooking Oil is incredibly versatile and can be used in a variety of dishes. It has a neutral taste, so it won't overpower the flavors of your food. We especially enjoyed using it for stir-frying vegetables and making popcorn.

The oil is nutrient-dense and contains five times more calorie-burning MCTs than traditional virgin coconut oil. It's also high in monounsaturated fats, which are necessary for a healthy diet.

We appreciate that Carrington Farms is committed to providing high-quality, organic, non-GMO health food products. Your purchase of this product will help feed kids lunch three days a week through the Carrington Cares program.

Overall, we highly recommend Carrington Farms Liquid Coconut Cooking Oil for anyone looking for a healthy and tasty alternative to traditional oils.

If you're looking for a versatile and nourishing coconut oil, Nutiva Organic Coconut Oil is an excellent choice.

Pros

• Made from organic, non-GMO coconuts
• Cold-pressed to retain nutrients and flavor
• Versatile for cooking, baking, and beauty uses

Cons

• Some users may prefer a more refined taste
• Large size may not be practical for all users
• May be more expensive than some other coconut oils

We love Nutiva Organic Coconut Oil for its rich flavor and nutrient density. It's perfect for sauteing, baking, or adding to smoothies for an extra boost of healthy fats. Plus, it's great for use as a natural skin moisturizer or hair treatment.

One of the best things about Nutiva Organic Coconut Oil is that it's made from sustainably farmed coconuts and adheres to strict organic and non-GMO guidelines. This means you can feel good about using a product that is good for both you and the planet.

Overall, we highly recommend Nutiva Organic Coconut Oil for anyone looking for a high-quality, versatile, and nourishing coconut oil.

If you're looking for a versatile, healthy cooking oil that won't overpower the flavors of your food, BetterBody Foods Naturally Refined Organic Coconut Oil is a great choice.

Pros

• Boost your energy with MCTs
• Neutral flavor and aroma
• High smoke point of 425°F

Cons

• Not suitable for those who prefer the taste and aroma of coconut oil
• May be more expensive than other cooking oils
• Comes in a large container that may be difficult to store in small kitchens

We've been using BetterBody Foods Naturally Refined Organic Coconut Oil for a few months now, and we're impressed with its performance in the kitchen. It has a neutral flavor and aroma, so it won't overpower the taste of your food, and it has a high smoke point of 425°F, making it suitable for high-heat cooking methods like frying and sautéing.

One of the things we love about this coconut oil is that it contains medium chain triglycerides (MCTs), which are a type of healthy fat that can give you an energy boost. We've noticed that we feel more alert and focused after cooking with this oil, which is a nice bonus.

Another thing we appreciate about this coconut oil is that it's certified organic, non-GMO, gluten-free, and kosher, so we can feel good about using it in our cooking. It's also packaged in a large, 56-ounce container, which means we don't have to worry about running out anytime soon.

The only downside to this coconut oil is that it doesn't have the coconut flavor and aroma that some people enjoy. If you're looking for a coconut oil that will add a distinct coconut flavor to your dishes, this may not be the best choice for you. Additionally, it may be more expensive than other cooking oils, but we think it's worth the investment for its quality and health benefits.

Overall, we highly recommend BetterBody Foods Naturally Refined Organic Coconut Oil for anyone looking for a healthy, versatile cooking oil that won't overpower the flavors of their food.

If you're looking for an all-natural, versatile coconut oil, Viva Naturals Organic Coconut Oil is a great choice.

Pros

• Naturally nourishing for hair and skin
• Perfect for cooking and baking
• USDA-certified organic and Non-GMO Project Verified

Cons

• May have a strong coconut scent
• Can be greasy if too much is used
• May solidify in colder temperatures

We've tried Viva Naturals Organic Coconut Oil for cooking, baking, and as a hair and skin moisturizer, and it has performed well in all areas. The high smoke point makes it great for frying and sautéing, and the natural coconut flavor adds a delicious touch to baked goods.

As a hair and skin moisturizer, Viva Naturals Organic Coconut Oil leaves skin feeling soft and hydrated without feeling greasy. It's a great natural alternative to traditional body oils and lotions.

One thing to note is that the coconut scent may be strong for some, so it may not be the best choice if you're sensitive to scents. Additionally, using too much can leave a greasy residue, so it's best to start with a small amount and add more as needed.

Overall, if you're looking for a high-quality, versatile coconut oil, Viva Naturals Organic Coconut Oil is definitely worth trying.

We highly recommend Island Fresh Organic Coconut Oil for cooking, skincare, and haircare needs.

Pros

• Authentic tropical taste and aroma
• Versatile cooking oil
• Great for skincare and haircare

Cons

• May clog pores if used on face
• Jar may leak during shipping
• Packaging is not eco-friendly

Island Fresh Organic Coconut Oil is perfect for adding a touch of the tropics to your cooking. It has a unique coconut flavor that is not overpowering and adds a delicious twist to any dish. We love using it in smoothies, stews, and soups for an exotic element.

Aside from cooking, this coconut oil is also great for skincare and haircare. We use it as a body moisturizer after showering, and it leaves our skin feeling soft and smooth. It's also perfect for a conditioning hair treatment - just apply to the roots and ends of your hair and leave on for 30 minutes before washing out.

While we love this coconut oil, it's important to note that it may clog pores if used on the face. We recommend using it as a body moisturizer instead. Additionally, the jar may leak during shipping, so be sure to check the packaging carefully upon arrival. Lastly, the packaging is not eco-friendly, which may be a concern for some consumers.

Overall, Island Fresh Organic Coconut Oil is a must-have for any kitchen, beauty routine, or wellness regimen. We highly recommend giving it a try.

If you're looking for a high-quality, organic MCT oil, Natural Force Organic MCT Oil is definitely worth considering.

Pros

• Made from cold-pressed virgin coconut oil, providing 14 grams of high quality, full-spectrum MCTs per 1 tbsp serving.
• Comes in a pure glass bottle that is infinitely recyclable, with a biodegradable product label printed with plant-based inks and a food-grade aluminum cap.
• USDA Organic, Non-GMO Verified, Keto, Paleo, Kosher, & Vegan certified.

Cons

• Some users may not like the natural taste of the oil.
• The glass bottle may be heavy and difficult to handle for some people.
• A bit more expensive than some other MCT oil brands.

We have been using Natural Force Organic MCT Oil for a while now and have been impressed with the quality and purity of the product. The fact that it is made from cold-pressed virgin coconut oil and provides 14 grams of high quality, full-spectrum MCTs per 1 tbsp serving is a big plus. We also appreciate the eco-friendly packaging, which is infinitely recyclable and biodegradable.

One thing to note is that the oil has a natural taste, which some users may not like. However, we find it to be mild and not overpowering. The glass bottle is also a nice touch, but it may be a bit heavy and difficult to handle for some people.

Overall, if you're willing to pay a bit more for a high-quality, organic MCT oil, Natural Force Organic MCT Oil is definitely worth considering.

If you're looking for a versatile and nutrient-rich oil for cooking, baking, or beauty, Nutiva Organic Liquid Fractionated Coconut Oil is a great choice.

Pros

• Nutiva's all-natural cold press extraction and USDA certified organic processes yield a pure, neutral-tasting, nutrient-rich oil with concentrated levels of MCTs, using no dangerous and harmful chemicals, hexane, or heat.
• With a medium smoke point, coconut oil is a perfect alternative to traditional oils such as vegetable, canola, olive, and corn and has a natural flavor that's great for adding to smoothies, salads, and coffee.
• Ideal addition to vegetarian, vegan, raw, whole food, paleo-friendly, ketogenic, and gluten-free diets and comes in a safe, BPA-free bottle.

Cons

• Some people may find the neutral flavor to be too mild for their taste.
• The price point may be slightly higher than other coconut oil products on the market.
• The liquid consistency may take some getting used to for those who are used to solid coconut oil.

We love using Nutiva Organic Liquid Fractionated Coconut Oil in our cooking and baking. It's perfect for sautéing vegetables, making stir-fry dishes, and adding to baked goods. The neutral flavor doesn't overpower other ingredients, making it a versatile ingredient in any recipe.

We also love using this oil for our skin and hair. It's a great natural moisturizer that doesn't leave a greasy residue. It's also perfect for removing makeup and as a deep conditioning treatment for hair.

Overall, if you're looking for a high-quality, nutrient-rich coconut oil for cooking, baking, or beauty, Nutiva Organic Liquid Fractionated Coconut Oil is a great choice.

If you're looking for a high-quality, versatile coconut oil for cooking, baking, and more, Horbäach Liquid Coconut Oil is definitely worth considering.

Pros

• Horbäach Liquid Coconut Oil is expeller pressed, meaning it's extracted from coconut flesh using expert innovation, resulting in pure, high-quality oil.
• This coconut oil is keto-friendly, containing medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs) to support a keto diet.
• Horbäach is a trusted brand that's known for producing high-quality, laboratory-tested products.

Cons

• Some customers have complained about the price of this coconut oil, as it's more expensive than some other options on the market.
• While this coconut oil is versatile and can be used for cooking, baking, and more, it may not be the best option for those who are looking for a coconut oil specifically for skincare or haircare.
• Some customers have reported issues with the packaging, including leaks and spills.

Overall, we would definitely recommend Horbäach Liquid Coconut Oil to anyone looking for a high-quality, versatile coconut oil for cooking and baking. It's expeller pressed, keto-friendly, and made by a trusted brand, making it a great choice for anyone who wants to incorporate coconut oil into their diet. However, if you're looking for a coconut oil specifically for skincare or haircare, you may want to consider other options.

Buying Guide

When it comes to choosing the best coconut oil for cooking, there are a few key features to consider. Here are some things to keep in mind:

Types of Coconut Oil

There are two main types of coconut oil: refined and unrefined. Refined coconut oil is made from dried coconut meat and is often bleached and deodorized. Unrefined coconut oil, on the other hand, is made from fresh coconut meat and is not processed as heavily. Unrefined coconut oil is generally considered to be the better option for cooking, as it retains more of its natural nutrients and flavor.

Smoke Point

The smoke point of an oil is the temperature at which it starts to smoke and break down. When choosing a coconut oil for cooking, it's important to consider its smoke point. Coconut oil has a relatively high smoke point, but the exact temperature can vary depending on the type of oil and how it was processed. Generally speaking, unrefined coconut oil has a lower smoke point than refined coconut oil, so it may not be the best choice for high-heat cooking methods like frying.

Quality

When selecting a coconut oil, it's important to look for a high-quality product. Look for oils that are cold-pressed, organic, and non-GMO. You may also want to consider purchasing fair trade coconut oil, which supports sustainable farming practices and fair labor standards.

Packaging

Coconut oil can be packaged in a variety of ways, including glass jars, plastic containers, and metal cans. Glass jars are generally considered to be the best option, as they are less likely to leach harmful chemicals into the oil. Metal cans can also be a good choice, but be sure to look for cans that are lined with a food-grade coating to prevent the oil from coming into contact with the metal.

By considering these factors when choosing a coconut oil for cooking, you can ensure that you're selecting a high-quality product that will meet your needs in the kitchen.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the benefits of using virgin coconut oil for cooking?

Virgin coconut oil is a great source of healthy fats and contains medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs) that are easily digestible and can provide a quick source of energy. It also has antimicrobial properties that can help fight bacteria and viruses.

What is the difference between refined and unrefined coconut oil for cooking?

Refined coconut oil is processed to remove impurities and has a neutral flavor, while unrefined coconut oil is minimally processed and retains its natural coconut flavor and aroma. Unrefined coconut oil is considered to be healthier due to its higher nutrient content.

Is there a specific type of coconut oil that is best for cooking?

Virgin coconut oil is generally considered to be the best option for cooking due to its high nutrient content and natural flavor. However, refined coconut oil can also be used for cooking if you prefer a neutral taste.

Can coconut oil be used for high-heat cooking?

Yes, coconut oil has a high smoke point and can be used for high-heat cooking such as frying and sautéing.

What are some popular brands of coconut oil for cooking?

Some popular brands of coconut oil for cooking include Nutiva, Viva Naturals, and Garden of Life.

Are there any potential health risks associated with using coconut oil for cooking?

While coconut oil is generally considered to be safe for cooking, it is high in saturated fat and should be consumed in moderation as part of a balanced diet. It is also important to choose high-quality, organic coconut oil to avoid any potential harmful additives.