Have you ever wondered what happens to oil after you fry potatoes or cutlets in it?
It’s a shame to pour it out, but it’s also scary to use it again – what if it’s dangerous?
Let's figure out whether it's possible to turn old fat into a cost-effective life hack or whether it's better to get rid of it right away.
Many housewives see nothing wrong with leaving oil in the frying pan until next time. It seems that if it does not smoke or smell burnt, then everything is fine. But here lies the first pitfall.
When oil is heated to high temperatures, harmful substances begin to form in it - free radicals and acrolein.
They form when fat is overheated, and the longer you use the same oil, the higher their concentration. These compounds can negatively affect the body, causing inflammation and even increasing the risk of serious diseases.
But don't rush to pour the oil down the sink! It all depends on what exactly you fried. If you cooked something without a strong smell and at a medium temperature - for example, pancakes or cheesecakes - the oil may be preserved better.
The main thing is to strain it through cheesecloth or a sieve to remove any food residue and pour it into a glass jar. This "reserve" should be stored in the refrigerator for no longer than 1-2 weeks.
If the oil has become cloudy, sticky or has started to smell bad, this is a clear sign that it’s time to say goodbye to it.
Interestingly, some oils are more resistant to heat. For example, refined sunflower or coconut oils can withstand repeated use better than olive or flaxseed oils.
But even these should not be used more than 2-3 times. By the way, you can reuse oil not only for frying, but also for dressing salads or adding to dough - the main thing is that it is not bitter.
But what to do if the oil has gone bad? Don't pour it down the sink - it's bad for the pipes and the environment. It's better to let it harden, collect it in a bag and throw it in the trash. Or find an unconventional use: for example, lubricate door hinges or use it as a base for homemade candles.
In the end, oil after frying is not an absolute evil. If you approach the matter wisely, you can save money and not harm your health. The main thing is to monitor the condition of the fat, not to overheat it and not to store it for months.
