Italian Traditional Food - How The Italians Find The Right Olive Oils

The Marriage Of Oils And Foods

Olive trees have graced Greek mythology since 86 BC, and it is no wonder that the world at large wonders exactly how the Italians find the right olive oils for their cooking. The fact is these trees are virtually everywhere in Italy and Greece. Their wares are there for the taking, yet knowing exactly how and when to pick from these famous trees is anything but a simple task.

The Italians have learned through generations the best times to pick, and to use the olives to their best advantage. This in the end offers the best oils that are used to create masterpieces in the Italian kitchens word wide.

How To Shop For Your Oils

When you consider how the Italians find the right olive oils, you need to keep in mind that fresh is always best where a great cook is concerned. Unlike wines, olive oils do not age well, and do in fact loose their luster as age sets in. the better oils are always the oils that are produced closest to the time that you are actually shopping for them. There are various terms in the olive’s life that make the oil a different texture and or consistency, but the fact remains that if it is fresh then the oil will be better.

Shopping for the right oils does not always entail looking for the most expensive bottle assuming that it must be good oil. There are many companies that will throw filler on the label to make you think that this oil is the best possible oil on the market.

Where The Oil Comes From

Throughout the Mediterranean the Italians find the right olive oils because they are one of the chief exporters of these wonderful cooking spirits. Other countries such as Turkey, Spain, France and Greece all play a role in the export of these fine oils, yet many Italians enjoy sticking with their own in regards to home made products. Following the date of manufacture will help ensure that you are getting the freshest and most pure olive oil you can get.

While the United States and a few other countries such as Chile and Argentina are now in the market for these wines, you can expect that the best breed oils originate from the aforementioned countries. Buying extra virgin olive oil from Italy is unlike any other oil purchase, and it is something that you will be sure to repeat once.

There Are Actual Differences Between Oil Seasons

The Italians find the right olive oils because they have been trained to pick out various oils by season. These seasons play a large role in how the oil tastes, and this is what the Italians use to determine exactly the type of oil they need for a specific recipe. If they are looking for more fruity oil, they will look for the oils that have been produced in the early portion of the season. As the season wears on, the gentler the oil becomes making for some delightful additions to vegetable or seafood recipes.

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