Medium olive oil, specifically medium extra virgin olive oil (EVOO), refers to olive oil made using a specific harvesting strategy that results in a particular flavor profile. Here's a breakdown:
Understanding Medium EVOO
A medium EVOO is created by:
- Combining olives from different harvest stages: It is made with a mix of olives picked in both the early and mid-stages of the olive harvest. This approach affects the oil's final characteristics.
Flavor and Characteristics of Medium Olive Oil
- Fruity Taste: Medium olive oils offer a prominent fruity flavor, making them versatile for culinary use.
- Grassy Scent: The aroma is often described as grassy, a characteristic often associated with fresh olive oils.
- Peppery or Spicy Finish: A defining feature of medium olive oil is a peppery or spicy sensation at the end, adding complexity.
Olive Varieties and Intensity
- Variety Matters: While harvest timing plays a significant role, the type of olive used also impacts intensity. For example, Arbequina, Koroneiki, and Ascolano olives can yield medium-intensity oils, depending on when they are harvested.
- Early Harvest: Early harvest tends to produce more intense flavors and higher peppery notes.
- Mid-Harvest: Mid-harvest produces milder profiles compared to early harvest.
Summary Table of Medium EVOO Characteristics
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Harvest | Combination of early and mid-stage olives |
| Flavor | Fruity |
| Scent | Grassy |
| Finish | Peppery or spicy |
| Olive Varieties | Arbequina, Koroneiki, and Ascolano can be medium intensity depending on harvest stage |
How to use medium Olive Oil
Medium olive oils are versatile and work well in a variety of uses, such as:
- Drizzling: As a finishing oil over salads, vegetables, and cooked dishes.
- Cooking: Suitable for sautéing and light frying due to its balanced flavor profile.
- Dipping: Excellent for bread dipping or as part of an appetizer.
In conclusion, medium olive oil is characterized by its balanced fruitiness, grassy aroma, and peppery finish, resulting from a blend of early and mid-harvested olives.
