Cooking with Extra Virgin Olive Oil: Dos and Don'ts

Cooking with Extra Virgin Olive Oil: Dos and Don'ts

Extra virgin olive oil (EVOO) is more than just a kitchen staple; it’s a flavorful, nutritious, and versatile ingredient that can elevate your cooking. However, using it correctly can make a significant difference in both taste and health benefits. Here are some best practices for cooking with Levon EVOO (both Gold and Little Harvest), including temperature considerations and flavor pairings.

The Basics of Extra Virgin Olive Oil

EVOO is derived from the first pressing of olives and is known for its rich flavor and high antioxidant content. The quality of EVOO can vary significantly, so always choose high-quality, certified brands to ensure you're getting the real deal.

Dos: Best Practices for Cooking with EVOO

  1. Use for Low to Medium Heat Cooking and follow Master Chef Tip
    While EVOO has a smoke point around 375-410°F (190-210°C), it’s best suited for low to medium heat cooking. It is a misconception therefore that olive oil cannot be used for cooking. For ultimate use, make sure to heat up the pan/pot before adding the EVOO, wait for a minute, then add the oil and food consecutively. This will avoid heating up the EVOO and therefore preserve its benefits (master chefs' tip)! Use it for sautéing vegetables, pan-frying, or drizzling over dishes at the end of cooking to enhance flavor without compromising its health benefits. 

  2. Pair with Complementary Flavors
    Levon EVOO has a complex flavor profile that can range from fruity (Little Harvest) to peppery (Gold Harvest). Pair it with ingredients that complement its taste. For instance, it works beautifully with:

    • Fresh herbs (like basil, thyme, and rosemary)
    • Citrus (like lemon or orange)
    • Garlic and onions
    • Grilled meats and roasted vegetables
  3. Finish Dishes with EVOO
    Drizzling high-quality EVOO over finished dishes can add a burst of flavor. Use it on salads, pasta, grilled meats, or roasted vegetables for an added layer of richness.

  4. Experiment with Infusions
    Elevate your EVOO by infusing it with herbs, spices, or even chilies. This can create a delightful base for dressings or marinades. Just remember to store infused oils in a cool, dark place and use them within a few weeks.

  5. Store Properly
    EVOO should be stored in a dark, cool place away from light and heat to preserve its quality. A dark glass bottle or tin is ideal for storage ( our Levon (Little Harvest) comes naturally in a tin, while our Levon (Gold Harvest) comes naturally in a dark glass bottle.

Don'ts: Common Mistakes to Avoid

  1. Don’t Use for High-Temperature Cooking
    Avoid using EVOO for frying or searing at very high temperatures. When heated beyond its smoke point, EVOO can develop off-flavors and lose some of its nutritional properties. Instead, reserve it for sautéing, roasting, or drizzling.

  2. Don’t Overheat It
    If you’re sautéing, keep the heat low to medium. If the oil begins to smoke, it’s too hot. Lower the heat or remove the pan from the burner to prevent damaging the oil’s flavor and nutrients.

  3. Don’t Store in Clear Containers
    Exposure to light can degrade EVOO. Always opt for dark glass or metal containers for storage, and keep it in a pantry rather than above the stove where heat can affect its quality.

  4. Don’t Confuse Flavor Profiles
    Not all EVOOs are created equal. Some have robust flavors, while others are milder. Make sure to taste your oil before using it to match its profile with your dish appropriately. A strong oil might overpower delicate flavors, while a mild one might get lost in a robust dish.

  5. Don’t Forget to Check the Harvest Date
    Freshness matters! Always check for a harvest date on the label. EVOO is best used within 18 months of bottling, so try to buy smaller bottles that you can finish quickly and refilling your storage as needed.

Conclusion

Cooking with extra virgin olive oil can be a delightful experience when done correctly. By understanding its properties, experimenting with flavors, and respecting its nuances, you can harness the full potential of this exceptional ingredient. Whether drizzling it on a salad, using it in a marinade, or adding it to a sauté, Levon EVOO can elevate your dishes while providing numerous health benefits. Happy cooking!

 

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