The 9 Best Walnut Oils
This wiki has been updated 23 times since it was first published in March of 2018. Walnut oil offers a diverse range of uses, not least of which is its capability to enhance the taste of a variety of foods with a rich, nutty flavor. It is also helpful in the production of home-made cosmetics, can be used as a sealant and finish on all kinds of wood products, including those that are then used with foods, and works as a delicate paint thinner for artists. When users buy our independently chosen editorial picks, we may earn commissions to help fund the Wiki.
1. La Tourangelle
2. Mahoney’s Fine Finish
3. Chalk Mountain Finisher
Editor's Notes
June 18, 2020:
Whether you're a gourmet chef, painter, or professional cosmetician, it's pretty difficult to ignore the versatility of these walnut oils. I, myself, am surprised by the range of uses for certain liquids like these. While some products like truffle oils and olive oils are primarily used to enhance the flavors of various foods, other types have a more diverse range of benefits. I'm not saying that olive and truffle oils are inferior in any way (I happen to love them both), but I'm definitely acknowledging the convenience of applying a substance to a variety of objects without being limited to just one function.
On the culinary side, we've included La Tourangelle. This affordable option has undergone manual pressing and slow roasting in cast iron kettles, giving it a subtle, yet sweet flavor for enhancing the taste of many foods. Though not always the rule, many walnut oils tend to yield a bitter taste when they're cooked at extremely high temperatures, so using a lower, more gentle roasting process can help maintain the product's nutritional value without a gnarly taste.
We've added both Mahoney’s Fine Finish and Chalk Mountain Finisher, the former of which offers a rapid drying time and ability to fully absorb into many wood surfaces while the latter is ideal for use as a furniture sealant.
Though it's mainly used to improve the taste of pastas and salad, Erbology Organic can also be rubbed into the hair and skin.
For the budding artist, Chelsea Classical Studio is a formidable choice. Purified by hand and naturally cleaned to filter out impurities, its pale color makes it a good option for painting light colors.
For skincare applications, we've included Dr. Adorable Organic, as its moisturizing properties and viscosity are ideal for massage therapy.
Finally, Spectrum Naturals can withstand high temperatures without losing its nutritional value, so it's definitely a good choice for pan frying. However, it should be mixed with foods that counteract the somewhat bitter flavor it produces when it's heated.
Special Honors
Manzanita Manor Organic Available in both two- and four-pack options Manzanita Manor Estate walnut oil is completely organic, cold pressed, and ideal for drizzling over popcorn or mixed in with a salad. Having been in the farming business since 1997, the company also sells its own Port-style wine and a variety of other organic walnut products, including a butter, flour, sprouted, flavored, and chocolate-covered varieties. Manzanita Manor's farm stand is located in Paso Robles, California. mmorganics.com
4. Erbology Organic
5. Chelsea Classical Studio
6. Jean LeBlanc
7. Dr. Adorable Organic
8. Castelmuro Pure
9. Spectrum Naturals
Jeff is a dedicated writer and communications professional from San Francisco with a bachelor of arts in anthropology from UC Berkeley. He began his career in computer consulting and later branched out into customer service. Jeff focuses on making complex topics easy to understand. With over 10 years' experience in research, his relentless curiosity fuels a love of writing and learning how things work, and has helped to build expertise in categories such as heavy-duty power tools and computer equipment. Jeff's passion for animals affords him a strong understanding of pet products, including dog houses, beds, and grain-free foods. When he's not writing, he prefers spending time with his family and three dogs, while kicking back and relaxing with a nice glass of red wine.