Since stir-frying is quick, the appropriate for this task are corn oil, soybean oil, sunflower oil - which contains a high amount of vitamin E - or a mixture of soybean and palm oil.

If you want to make salad dressing, processed soybean oil made especially for salad is the best option.

Deep-frying requires large quantities of oil for a prolonged amount of time at a high temperature, and for this Tip recommends cottonseed oil, which has long been popular in the US and Europe.

The new line of oils is available in supermarkets.

Thai tapas

Experience an evening of tantalising and innovative Thai tapas at the Hotel Plaza Athenee's Glaz Bar, prepared by celebrity chef McDang. The food is offered along with award-winning Thai wines from Monsoon Valley. Available until August 12.

Call (02) 650 8800, extension 4324 for reservations.

Sugar kirsch cake

All this month, pastry chefs at the Emerald Hotel are offering irresistible sugar kirsch cakes. The sweet delight is available alongside many other wonderful baked items at the Cake Shop located on the ground floor.

Call (02) 276 4567, extension 8797 for details.

Low-calorie steak

Miyuki Japanese restaurant at the Royal Princess Srinakarin Hotel presents a healthy and nutritious Bento steak set. The promotion includes an array of soups, appetisers, main dishes and sweets. For example, you can select pork, chicken, saba or salmon steak to be served with sautéed shiitake mushrooms, miso soup and garlic rice.

Call (02) 721 8400, extension 2037.

Hungarian food festival

Diners are invited to experience the delights of Hungarian cuisine all month long at the Radisson Hotel's lunch buffet.

Enjoy goulash and many a hardy dish pepped up with paprika, Hungarian-style baked duck, Hungarian salad and smoked goose.

Call (02) 641 4777, extension 1251.

The editor can be contacted at focusfood@nationgroup.com.