Pronunciation: [pˈiːnʌt ˈɔ͡ɪl] (IPA) 
Peanut oil is an edible oil commonly used in cooking. The spelling of "peanut oil" is straightforward: "peanut" is pronounced /ˈpinʌt/ in IPA, while "oil" is pronounced /ɔɪl/. Together, the two words are pronounced /ˈpinʌt ɔɪl/. Peanut oil has a high smoke point and a pleasant nutty flavor, making it a popular choice for deep-frying and sautéing. It is also a good source of healthy fats and vitamin E.
Peanut oil, also known as groundnut oil or arachis oil, is a type of vegetable oil that is derived from peanuts, which are the seeds of the legume plant Arachis hypogaea. It is commonly used in cooking and is highly regarded for its unique flavor and versatility.
Peanut oil is typically obtained through a process of extracting the oil from pressed peanuts. This involves either cold pressing or hot pressing the peanuts to release the oil. Cold pressed peanut oil is considered to be of higher quality as it retains more of the peanut's natural flavor and nutritional value.
With a high smoke point, peanut oil is suitable for various cooking methods, including frying, sautéing, and stir-frying. It is often preferred for deep frying due to its ability to maintain stable properties at higher temperatures, resulting in crispy and less greasy food.
In terms of its nutritional content, peanut oil is a rich source of monounsaturated fats, specifically oleic acid, which is known to have potential health benefits. It also contains Vitamin E, an antioxidant that helps protect the body against free radicals.
Beyond culinary use, peanut oil is used in various industries, including cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, and lubricants. It is known for its moisturizing properties, and it can be found in skincare products, hair conditioners, and massage oils.
Overall, peanut oil is a versatile and flavorful oil that is widely used in cooking and beyond, offering both culinary benefits and potential health advantages.
The word "peanut" comes from the Old English word "pnute", which originated from the West Germanic language. It is believed to have been derived from the Latin word "nux Punic", meaning "Punic nut". "Punic" refers to the Phoenicians, an ancient civilization known for trade and exploration, who introduced peanuts to the Mediterranean region.
The term "oil" comes from the Old English word "oel", which originates from the West Germanic language and shares common roots with other Germanic and Scandinavian languages. It ultimately derives from the Latin word "oleum", which means "olive oil".
Therefore, the word "peanut oil" combines the origin of "peanut" as a Punic nut with the word "oil", representing its edible liquid extracted from peanuts.
