The Kolhu process, also known as the traditional ghani or cold-press method, is an age-old technique used for extracting oil from seeds. It involves a series of manual steps that emphasize the preservation of the oil’s natural qualities.
In this process, seeds such as mustard or sesame are meticulously cleaned to remove any impurities. Once cleaned, they’re poured into a Kolhu, a large wooden or stone mill specifically designed for this purpose.
Inside the Kolhu, a heavy wooden or stone crusher is used to crush the seeds. This crusher, often operated manually or powered by animals like bullocks, breaks down the seeds, releasing their oil content.
As the seeds are crushed, the oil slowly seeps out and trickles down through the gaps between the crusher and the inner walls of the Kolhu. It collects in a groove around the edge of the bottom stone or wooden container.
After the extraction process, the oil is manually scooped out from the groove using ladles or other utensils. This oil is cold-pressed, meaning it’s extracted at low temperatures, preserving its natural flavor, aroma, and nutritional properties.
