Pickles of India: 10 Different Types of Pickles in India

Many people feel unsure when choosing between oils because names, labels, and usage often overlap. One of the most common doubts in Indian kitchens is Gingelly Oil vs Sesame Oil .  Some believe they are the same, while others feel they serve very different purposes. The truth lies somewhere in between. Understanding how these oils are prepared, used, and perceived helps you make a confident choice that suits your daily cooking habits rather than relying on assumptions. How Is Sesame Oil Different from Gingelly Oil? At the source level, both oils come from sesame seeds, which is why the terms are often used interchangeably. However, gingelly oil and sesame oil differ mainly in processing style, aroma, and regional meaning.  In India, gingelly oil usually refers to a darker, stronger oil used for cooking, while sesame oil in global markets is often lighter and refined. This basic Gingelly sesame oil difference explains why the same seed produces oils that behave differently i...

Choosing the right cooking oil reflects not just taste, but also how food feels after a meal. In many Indian homes, pure sesame oil has remained a steady choice for generations. It is not selected because of trends or advertising, but because families have seen how it performs in everyday cooking.  From simple vegetable dishes to traditional gravies, this oil fits naturally into daily meals. Understanding why it works so well can help you make better choices for your kitchen. What Is Pure Sesame Oil and Why Is It Called Pure Gingelly Oil? Pure sesame oil is extracted directly from sesame seeds without mixing or heavy processing. In many regions, it is also known as pure gingelly oil , referring to the same oil prepared using traditional methods.  The word “pure” matters because it indicates that the oil comes from a single source and does not contain added oils or chemicals. This simplicity is why it has remained part of Indian kitchens for so long. Is Pure Sesame Oil Good f...

When people talk about Chekku oil, most attention goes to the wooden press or the slow extraction method. But the true quality of Chekku oil begins much earlier—with the Gingelly Oil Seed . The seed decides how the oil smells, tastes, and performs during cooking. Even the best traditional process cannot compensate for poor-quality seeds. Knowing why seed selection matters helps you understand what separates genuine Chekku oil from ordinary seed-based oils sold in the market. What Are Gingelly Oil Seeds and Their Importance? The Gingelly Oil Seed comes from the sesame plant and has been used in Indian households for centuries. Commonly known as a sesame seed , it is valued for its natural oil content and ability to release oil slowly when pressed.  Traditional oil makers pay close attention to seed maturity, cleanliness, and storage conditions. This careful handling ensures that the oil extracted is consistent in colour, aroma, and texture. Seed quality is treated as the foundation...

In many Indian homes, pooja is not just a practice—it is a quiet moment of connection, discipline, and gratitude. Among the items used daily, Gingelly oil for pooja holds a special place. It has been part of rituals for generations, not chosen randomly but through long-standing belief and experience. From lighting lamps to sacred offerings, gingelly oil continues to be trusted for its purity and purpose. This guide explains why it is used, how it supports rituals, and what to look for when buying it. Why Is Gingelly Oil Traditionally Used in Pooja? The use of Gingelly oil for pooja comes from tradition rather than trend. Ancient households relied on natural resources that were easily available and stable for lamp lighting.  Over time, the Uses of Gingelly Oil became deeply connected with religious customs. Elders preferred it because it burned evenly and symbolised cleanliness. Even today, Gingelly oil is chosen for puja because it aligns with long-followed ritual practices. How...