By Sarah Dutton

Dec 16 2019

Oil has a special significance for those who celebrate Hanukkah. This Jewish holiday celebrates the rededication of the Second Temple in Jerusalem, when sacred oil that was expected to light the temple for only one night miraculously lasted for eight. That is why oily foods like latkes (potato pancakes) and sufganiyot (donuts) are eaten during Hanukkah.

For those who will be frying their food in vegetable oils this Hanukkah, there are plenty of options to choose from. Chefs recommend using oils with high smoke points for frying. High smoke points are achieved by refining oil—removing any substances that are more sensitive to heat. Refined oils also tend to be more neutral in flavor. All sorts of plant oils have been refined to achieve higher smoke points and neutral flavors, though how high and how neutral they are can vary. But hey, maybe a light sesame flavor would add an interesting twist to latkes.

To help get into a festive mood, check out these eight plants that are used for their oil.