This palm is native to southwestern Africa, between Angola and Gambia.
This type of oil was first obtained 3600 years ago, it was used especially in Western Guinea from where it came to America, later on this oil arrived in China from America.
Nowadays the largest palm oil production is centered in countries like Malaysia, Indonesia, Nigeria, Thailand, Colombia, New Guinea, Ivory Coast, Costa Rica, Honduras, Brazil and Guatemala.
It is a natural source of Vitamin A and Vitamin E, nevertheless, due to its high saturated fat content, it has negative consequences to human health ,since a long and abundant consumption of palm oil can raise the ratio of LDL cholesterol in the blood.
Its flavour is stronger than olive oil's, but gives the dishes a distinctive flavour and color the sauces, I strongly believe that you should not avoid using this oil if the original recipe includes this ingredient , that's the only way to know the real flavor of the dish!
Where to Buy Palm Oil in Madrid:
Near Metro Lavapies , you can find the Miguel Servet Street where there are a lot of multicultural food stores selling this kind of oil.
If you come from a different place and know where to find palm oil in your zone, please leave a comment telling us, this way other readers will have more possibilities to find this ingredient!
