Olive oil is a popular cooking oil that is used in various cuisines worldwide. It is rich in healthy monounsaturated fats and has a range of health benefits. Early harvest olive oil is a premium quality olive oil that is extracted from olives that are picked earlier than usual. In this blog, we will discuss what early harvest olive oil is and why you should try it.
What is Early Harvest Olive Oil?
Early harvest olive oil is made from olives that are picked earlier in the season, usually in October or November, before they fully ripen. The olives are still green, and their oil content is lower than later in the season. As a result, the oil is more pungent and has a grassy flavor with a higher polyphenol content.
The process of making early harvest olive oil is similar to regular olive oil. The olives are harvested, washed, and crushed to extract the oil. However, the olives used for early harvest olive oil are typically hand-picked to ensure that only the best quality olives are used.
Why Should You Try Early Harvest Olive Oil?
Early Harvest Olive Oil Benefits
Unique Flavor Profile: Early harvest olive oil has a unique flavor profile compared to regular olive oil. It has a grassy and pungent taste with a slightly bitter finish. This flavor profile makes it an excellent choice for drizzling over salads, dipping bread, or finishing dishes.
High in Polyphenols: Polyphenols are natural antioxidants that have various health benefits. Early harvest olive oil has a higher polyphenol content than regular olive oil due to the unripe olives used to make it. These antioxidants help reduce inflammation, protect against heart disease, and may even have anti-cancer properties.
Versatile Cooking Oil: Early harvest olive oil is a versatile cooking oil that can be used in a variety of dishes. Its robust flavor makes it ideal for finishing dishes, drizzling over salads, or dipping bread. However, it can also be used for sautéing, roasting, and frying.
Health Benefits: Olive oil, in general, is known for its health benefits, and early harvest olive oil is no exception. It is rich in healthy monounsaturated fats and polyphenols, which help reduce inflammation, protect against heart disease, and may have anti-cancer properties. Additionally, it may help improve brain function and reduce the risk of Alzheimer's disease.
Sustainable and Local: Early harvest olive oil is typically produced by small, local farms, which promotes sustainable agriculture and supports local communities. By purchasing early harvest olive oil, you are supporting local farmers and contributing to the preservation of traditional farming methods.
How to Use Early Harvest Olive Oil
Early harvest olive oil is best used for finishing dishes, dipping bread, or drizzling over salads. Its robust flavor may overpower other ingredients in a recipe, so it is not recommended for cooking at high temperatures. However, it can be used for sautéing, roasting, and frying at low to medium heat.
When using early harvest olive oil, it is important to store it properly to maintain its quality and flavor. It should be kept in a cool, dark place away from heat and light. It is also essential to use it within six months of opening the bottle to ensure the best flavor and quality.
Conclusion
Early harvest olive oil is a premium quality olive oil that has a unique flavor profile and high polyphenol content. It is a versatile cooking oil that can be used for finishing dishes, drizzling over salads, and dipping bread. Its health benefits and support of sustainable agriculture and local communities make it an excellent choice for any kitchen. So why not try early harvest olive oil and experience its robust flavor and health benefits for yourself?
