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Did you know that the United States imports around 390,534 tons of olive oil annually?
With so much of it being imported, it’s important to know how to cook with it to get the very best flavor. If you don’t, your flavor can get lost in the shuffle, and you might not experience the benefits of olive oil.
Want to learn how to cook with olive oil? Keep reading for the best tips for cooking with olive oil.
1. Choose Unrefined Olive Oil
When cooking with olive oil, it is important to choose unrefined olive oil. Unrefined olive oil has stronger flavor and health benefits than other types. It also contains more of the oil’s natural antioxidants, polyphenols, and vitamins.
It can also be used at a higher smoking point, meaning that it is best suited for sautéing and frying. Be sure to check the label for the words “cold-pressed” or “unrefined.” It is also wise to select a bottle that has a dark tint to the glass, as this indicates that it was bottled properly.
2. Always Use Fresh Olive Oil
Using fresh olive oil is key when cooking with it. Fresh oil has a greater concentration of antioxidants and other beneficial nutrients for your health. Additionally, it smells and tastes better than older oil.
Always check the best-before date, and do not use oil that is past its expiration date. With these tips, you’ll have delicious and healthy meals cooked with fresh olive oil.
3. Store Properly
It is important to keep olive oil in a cool, dark location when storing it. Heat and light can cause the oil to turn rancid over time. The ideal temperature for storing olive oil is between 55-68 degrees Fahrenheit.
If your kitchen is too warm for this, consider keeping the oil in the refrigerator. Also, choose one with a sealed lid, with packaging that blocks light. Once opened, make sure to use the oil regularly and store it in an airtight container like this ceramic olive oil dispenser bottle.
4. Use as a Finishing Oil
One of the most effective tips for cooking with olive oil is to use it as a finishing oil after the dish has been cooked. This process brings out the flavor of the dish, making the flavor robust and richer.
To use it this way, the oil should be poured over the cooked vegetables, pasta, fish, or meat. The result will be an added flavor depth and a great aroma burst. Adding a few drops of oil at the final stage of cooking can add that final layer of flavor and make the dish stand out.
5. Choose a Mild-Tasting Oil
When cooking with olive oil, choose a mild-tasting oil extra light olive oil. The lighter varieties contain fewer impurities and have a subtler flavor, so they won’t overpower the flavor of your finished dish.
Light or extra light oil is also a better option when cooking at higher temperatures since they are less likely to burn or smoke when heated. These steps will ensure that your finished dish contains the best flavor of olive oil.
Expertly Cooking With Olive Oil
Cooking with olive oil is a healthy and delicious way to add flavor and richness to dishes. Following the effective tips above will help you get the most out of your olive oil and create satisfying meals.
Try these tips today to get started with adding the best olive oil to your next dish and start experiencing the benefits!
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