Poppy Seed Oil
Papaver somniferumA light yellow seed oil with a lightly nutty scent, obtained by cold-pressing poppy seeds. Used as a salad dressing and finishing oil; a different product from poppy seeds themselves.
What Is Poppy Seed Oil?
Poppy seed oil is a seed oil obtained by cold-pressing the seeds of the poppy plant. It is a separate product form from the poppy seed itself (the whole seed used as a spice/flavor addition).
Its color ranges from light yellow to dark golden yellow, its smell is mildly nutty; it is known in French and Central European cuisines as a gourmet salad oil.
Nutritional Value of Poppy Seed Oil
100 grams of poppy seed oil contains about 884 kcal of energy; it is almost entirely fat and consists predominantly of unsaturated fatty acids. Values vary with the degree of refining and are approximate.
How Should Poppy Seed Oil Be Consumed?
Poppy seed oil is consumed as part of a balanced diet, in moderate amounts like other oils.
This information is general; poppy seed oil is an oil, not a substitute for medical treatment.
How to Choose Poppy Seed Oil?
A good poppy seed oil is one with a color between light and dark golden yellow, a mildly nutty smell, and no sediment or cloudiness.
- The color should be between light and dark golden yellow, and clear
- The smell should be mildly nutty, not bitter-sour
- The label should clearly state cold-press information
How to Store Poppy Seed Oil?
Poppy seed oil is stored in a closed bottle in a cool, dark cupboard; storing it in the refrigerator after opening delays it from turning rancid.
Using Poppy Seed Oil in the Kitchen
Poppy seed oil is most often used as a finishing touch over salad dressings and cooked vegetables; since its aroma can degrade at high heat, raw use is preferred.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do poppy seed oil and poppy seed do the same job?
No; whole poppy seed gives a crunchy texture and a mildly roasted taste, while poppy seed oil is a liquid oil used as a flowing sauce/finishing component.
Can poppy seed oil be used in cooking?
It can be used, but since its delicate aroma can degrade with heat, it is generally recommended to be used raw, after cooking.
Is poppy seed oil found in Turkey?
It can be found in gourmet markets and specialty oil shops; it is not common.