Butter has been under the controversial light as of late. The reason why this is due to the ongoing debate about their health benefits or lack thereof.
Therefore, we suggest you look for a healthier option and fortunately there are so several butter substitutes that you can choose from.
Healthier alternatives to butter
Healthy Butter Substitutes
Not every butter substitute follows the same type of cooking and recipes. Some of them have stronger flavors than the rest, which could change the taste of your food. And others have low heat points and can’t be used for high-heat or baking cooking.
You’ll find that many oils offer a slew of health benefits, but keep in mind that most of them are also high in fat and calories. Even if some of the oils contain “healthy” fats, they can put some weight of consumed too much.
#1: Olive Oil
We’ll start with the healthiest butter substitutes in olive oil. As the name suggests, this oil is made from the fruit of the olive tree. This oil contains mostly healthy monounsaturated fats, which could help lower your chances of heart disease. It could also help regulate blood sugar.
However, not all olive oil is made equal. A 2016 CBS NEWs report states that most of the Italian olive oil found in supermarkets is fake. This report suggested consumers buy olive oil directly from Italian producers. They should also read the labels carefully to ensure the product comes from olive oil-producing Italian towns such as Puglia and Sicily.
Olive oil can be used in place of vegetable oils for marinades or dressings, and sauteed over low to medium heat. Though it’s not recommended for baking due to its strong flavor.
One of our favourite meals for a quick weeknight dinner is an olive oil and garlic sauce over spiralized noodles made from Zucchini. Learn more here: Best Spiralizers.
#2: Flaxseed Oil
Flaxseed oil – also known as linseed oil – is made from the seeds of the flax plant and is a good source of soluble fiber. According to a 2015 animal study, flaxseed oil has been shown to have laxative effects and may help relieve constipation. There is some evidence which claims that it can also reduce cholesterol and lower heart disease, but more research is required.
However, flaxseed oil isn’t heat-stable shouldn’t be used as a vegetable oil substitute in recipes that require cooking over heat. It can be used especially in marinades and salad dressings. It’s also great for drizzling over grilled vegetables or other cooked foods before serving.
Can you Substitute Oil for Butter When Baking?
#3: Coconut Oil
Although coconut oil contains saturated fats, they are actually more neutral than the ones found in other foods. It also contains a saturated fat known as lauric acid that may raise “good” cholesterol levels.
In order to substitute for butter, you need to use the same amount of coconut oil as butter. And since coconut oil is solid at room temperature, you have to melt the oil, especially if your recipe requires liquid oil. Make sure the other ingredients aren’t too cold or they could end up re-solidifying the coconut oil.
Note that coconut oil has a rich, vanilla-like flavor, which is a delicious alternative for baked goods, but might not be right for every recipe.
#4: Avocado Oil: A Favourite Butter Alternative
Avocado oil is made from pressed avocado pulp. It mostly contains oleic acid, a healthy monounsaturated fat. It’s even a good source of antioxidants that fight free radicals in the body.
Avocado oil may help lower blood pressure. A 2015 study revealed that avocado oil helps boost carotenoid absorption in salsa and salads. Carotenoids like lutein and beta carotene are linked to eye health and could help reduce the risk of some cancers.
Avocado oil has a noticeably creamy, buttery taste and has a smoke point. It’s ideal for:
- Marinades
- Grilling
- Sauces
- Dressings
- Stir-frying
- Baking
- Sauteing
- Sauces
You can substitute avocado oil for butter in equal amounts. Though unlike other substitutes, avocado oil isn’t that easy to find at local grocery stores. You’ll have better luck with most natural health food stores as they keep it in stock.
Make your Own Butter Substitute
#5: Applesauce
Applesauce is another favorite if you’re looking for a quick and healthier butter alternative. It’s commonly used for baked dishes as it gives them more flavor and moisture.
Applesauce trumps vegetable oil in nutritional value as it contains fiber and vitamin C. It also has fewer calories. Although consuming it in excess still isn’t good for your health.
If you’re planning to get this substitute, just be sure it’s unsweetened and organic as the ones sold commercially might contain too much sugar and high-fructose corn syrup.
Applesauce is a convincing substitute for vegetable oil, especially for recipes including carrot cake, spice cake, gingerbread cake, chocolate cake, and quick bread recipes.
To make it a good butter substitute, use about ¾ of the amount of oil that you need for the recipe. If the batter’s too dry, then add a tablespoon or more.
#6: Yogurt as a Favourite Butter Substitute
Unlike other substitutes, replacing butter with yogurt isn’t easy. That’s because it could be hard to get the ratios right on the first go. But still, it’s one of the best substitutes due to its nutritional value.
Yogurt makes a good butter alternative for recipes like salads and baked goods. But it’s like a double-edged sword where it can either improve the texture of your food or ruin it. This depends on how well you incorporate yogurt into your recipe.
What’s the Deal With Butter—Is it Really Unhealthy?
Most people might resent using butter, probably due to it being high in calories. But it actually has relatively better nutritional value than the processed alternatives.
And as of recently, more and more people are understanding and seeing the benefits of using butter. It’s great if you want to add more flavor to your food and a good source of monounsaturated fat. Butter is also rich in vitamins A, D, and E.
Have your Say about Butter Substitutes
What are your thoughts about healthier alternatives to butter? Leave a comment below and let us know. Also be sure to give this article a share on Facebook, Twitter, or Pinterest.
Last update on 2019-11-18 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
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