Health and flavour. If we had to describe what Gourmet Extra Virgin Olive Oil is, these are the words we would use for this outstanding product of the Mediterranean diet, whose consumption has spread to the rest of the world. Gourmet oil is an essential ingredient in the kitchen of any food lover. It is without doubt the favourite of those with the most refined palates, thanks to its remarkable ability to enhance the flavour of the food it accompanies, but above all for its excellent properties and its contribution to the health of the lucky ones who can enjoy it. But do you really know what Gourmet Olive Oil is and how to tell it apart? We explain.
What is gourmet olive oil?
It is an extra virgin olive oil of the very highest quality, with exceptional benefits for the body. The production process of gourmet olive oil is essential to its characteristic purity. The harvested olives are taken straight to the mill to prevent any damage that could alter their flavour. One of the factors that directly shapes the qualities of gourmet olive oil is the olives from which it is extracted. These are green olives that have not fully ripened when picked, so storing them is more demanding and their flesh is firmer. For this reason, more kilos of olives are needed to produce the same amount of gourmet olive oil than of oil made from ripe olives.
Characteristics of gourmet olive oil
Here are some distinctive features of Gourmet Olive Oil that will help you identify it:
- It produces a tingling sensation on the tongue and in the throat when consumed
- Its flavour has peppery, bitter and slightly sweet notes.
- It gives off a delicious fruity aroma with citrus notes.
- Its colour is bright and clear.
- Its colour can range from yellow to greenish.
How to store gourmet oil
The oxidation of gourmet olive oil begins the moment the bottle is opened, so if we want its properties to remain at 100%, it is important to follow these guidelines:
- Close the bottle after each use.
- Keep the bottle in a cool, dark place.
- Keep it away from heat.
- Do not refrigerate.
- If the gourmet oil is kept in a clear container, transfer it to a darker one.
Its benefits for the body
You may be wondering whether adding Gourmet Olive Oil to your diet every day is a good idea… The answer is: of course! Not only because it tastes exquisite, but because its properties bring a great many benefits to our health. Here are some of them:
- Lowers blood cholesterol.
- Helps combat constipation.
- Improves the appearance of the skin and supports its elasticity.
- Helps prevent Alzheimer’s.
- Reduces high blood pressure.
- Strengthens hair and nails.
- Helps prevent stomach ulcers.
- Improves intestinal transit.
And much more!
How to use gourmet oil
This oil is perfectly suited to many uses: frying, sautéing, dressing, on toast, with cheese… and it is wonderful in salads! We recommend using it raw to bring out its full flavour while making the most of all its antioxidant properties.
So now you know the answer to the question what is gourmet olive oil and how can you tell it apart? All that is left is to treat your palate and do your body some good.
