For many people, Olive Oil has some type of mystic to it. Perhaps it’s because Olive Oil has been around for centuries or maybe it’s because of all the folk lore that surrounds the use of Gourmet Olive Oil in everything from cooking to healing. Since I’ve covered the health benefits of Olive Oil, I’ve decided to take some time and answer some of the most asked questions about Olive Oil. Feel free to drop me a line if you have a question about this wonderful oil from the Olive.
What is the difference between Olive Oil and Extra Virgin Olive Oil?
Basically, Extra Virgin Olive Oil and Virgin Olive Oil comes from the first pressing of the Olives and is less refined than other types of Olive Oil. If a bottle is labeled ‘Olive Oil’ or ‘Pure Olive Oil’, then it is a refined oil. Also, these two types of oil may contain blends of other oils such as Canola Oil, Sunflower Oil or Sesame Seed Oil among others.
What Kind Of Olive Oil Is Best For All Around General Cooking?
For cooking purposes, most people will want to use Extra Virgin Olive Oil or Virgin Olive Oil unless you’re cooking at high temperatures. In that case, be sure to use Olive Oil or Pure Olive Oil as they have a higher smoking point than the Virgin Olive Oils. Being less refined that the lower grade of Olive Oils such as Pure Olive Oil or Olive Oil, Gourmet Extra Virgin Olive Oil is the first choice of people wanting a true Olive Oil taste with their foods such as on salads and with bread. Extra Virgin Olive Oil is also great for using after removing meat from the grill, etc.
Can I Use Olive Oil Instead Of Eggs In My Recipes?
Sure. But with some recipes your results may vary just a little than with eggs. While it’s not an ideal substitution, it can be done. This may be one time that i skip the Extra Virgin Olive Oil and just go with a less refined and blended Olive Oil or Pure Olive Oil. Since Extra Virgin Olive Oil is thicker, and normally a stronger tasting oil, it could overpower your cake recipes, so use just a little at a time. Use your good judgement as to how much Olive Oil to substitute for eggs.
How Do I Make Olive Oil Dipping For Bread?
There are many recipes for making a Olive Oil Dip for bread. I would suggest try different recipes until you find one that you like. That’s the fun part. One simple recipe that many find delightful is some Extra Virgin Olive Oil, pressed garlic, Parmesan cheese, fresh herbs, salt and pepper. Some will also mix Balsamic Vinegar with Olive Oil which is also great recipe for an Olive Oil dipping sauce for bread. You can now find mixed and flavored Olive Oils that are great for bread dipping.
Can I Substitute Olive Oil for Vegetable Oil In My Recipes?
You bet. Just remember that your recipe may have a slightly different taste than if you used Canola Oil or another vegetable oil. I use ‘Light’ Olive Oil. It’s more refined and depending on the brand, it may be blended with other oils. It also has less of a strong taste that Extra Virgin Olive Oil.
Can I Use Olive Oil In My Hair?
Yes! Many people use Olive Oil in their hair. Many people swear that by using Olive Oil as a conditioner or pre-shampoo treatment, that it strengthens the hair and moisturizes the scalp. Many people also believe, and some studies suggest, that Olive Oil is great for the skin also. The popular method of using Olive Oil as a hair treatment is to put it in before you shampoo. Leave in it in your hair for about 30 minutes then shampoo it out. It’s also used to remove gum or even tape from the hair. So the next time the kids come home with it in their hair, you’ll know what to use!
What Is The Difference Between Unfiltered and Filtered Olive Oil?
Unfiltered Olive Oil will contain tiny bits (microscopic) of the olive fruit. Filtering removes these bits. Unfiltered is preferred by many people because they say that the unfiltered Olive Oil has a more robust taste due to the microscopic pieces of olives in it. Unfiltered Olive Oil will be cloudy until these pieces settle to the bottom. Other say that unfiltered olive oil doesn’t last as long because as they bits of Olive Oil age, they can become rancid over a period of time.
These are just of the questions I get asked most about Olive Oil. If you have you own questions, feel free to drop me a line and I’ll be happy to try and answer them for you. Until then, enjoy your Olive Oil any which way you want!