If you are trying to improve the quality of your food preparation look no further than your cooking oil. Not using the right oil for cooking can really make an impact on the flavor of your meals. Olive oil is a versatile product that is not only delicious but healthy. Here are some very good reasons to consider using olive oil for your cooking needs.
Healthy Choices
Olive oil is part of the “Mediterranean Diet” long hailed for its healthy ingredients and wonderful flavors. Unlike many other oils used for cooking, olive oil is a monounsaturated fat that helps lower cholesterol instead of raising it. You can even use olive oil instead of butter to dip bread. Like any other food, moderation is still the key as although it won’t raise cholesterol it gain raise calories.
Flavor
Olive oil will add more flavor to your meals than any other oil. It is rich and delicious when cooked and beautifully smooth and light when added to salads or used to make a real home made mayonnaise. You will be amazed at the difference using olive oil makes to your cooking.
Versatile
Olive oil is very versatile and can be used for simple sautéing, but can also sustain higher heats for frying. It has a smoking level at 375 degrees that means it won’t change in flavor, smoke or burn when cooking up to this temperature. You can add a drop of olive oil when cooking with butter for sautéing to help stop it from browning and burning as well.
Choosing an Olive Oil
Choosing an olive oil can be as complicated as choosing a wine. First, look for an olive oil that says “first press” as this is the most pure olive oil you can buy. This means the flavor will be richer and more pure. If you do not see this term on the bottle look for extra virgin olive oil. If possible choose an olive oil in a dark bottle as light can affect the taste and the nutrition of the oil. If you can’t find one in a dark bottle, store it in a dark place. You can actually store it in the fridge as well.
Professional chefs don’t just use professional Cookware, they use the ingredients they know will provide the best possible flavors.