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Can You Flavour Olive Oil?

Published in Olive Oil 2 mins read

Yes, you can absolutely flavour olive oil, creating infused olive oils with a variety of delicious tastes.

Infused olive oil is olive oil that has absorbed the flavours of other ingredients, typically aromatics like herbs, spices, and citrus fruits. This process allows the oil to be used to add a depth of flavour to many dishes.

How to Flavour Olive Oil

The process of flavouring olive oil usually involves steeping the desired ingredients in the oil for a period of time. Here's a basic overview:

  1. Choose Your Olive Oil: Use a good quality extra virgin olive oil as your base. Its flavour will impact the final result.
  2. Select Your Flavourings: Popular choices include:
    • Herbs: Rosemary, thyme, oregano, basil
    • Spices: Garlic, chili peppers, peppercorns
    • Citrus: Lemon zest, orange zest
  3. Prepare Your Flavourings: Ensure herbs are dry to prevent botulism. Garlic and chilies need to be handled carefully to prevent spoilage. Some recipes recommend lightly cooking the flavourings in the oil to enhance their infusion.
  4. Infusion: Combine the olive oil and flavourings in a clean jar or bottle.
  5. Steep: Allow the mixture to sit for a period of time, usually a few days to several weeks, depending on the intensity of flavour desired.
  6. Strain (Optional): Strain the oil to remove the solids, or leave them in for a more intense flavor.

Uses for Flavoured Olive Oil

Flavoured olive oils are incredibly versatile and can be used in numerous ways:

  • Drizzling: Over bread, salads, soups, or grilled vegetables.
  • Marinades: As a base for marinades for meats, poultry, or seafood.
  • Salad Dressings: Added to vinaigrettes for extra flavour.
  • Cooking: For sautéing, roasting, or baking.

Safety Considerations

When infusing olive oil, especially with ingredients like garlic or fresh herbs, it is crucial to follow safe food handling practices to prevent botulism. Always use dried herbs or thoroughly cook fresh ingredients before infusing. Properly stored infused oils can last for several weeks.