In those instances, I reach for olive oil.
How is olive oil made?
Before we get into the words on the bottle, lets talk about the olive oil extraction process.
Modern olive oil is extracted by decanter centrifugation.
Strictly speaking, a virgin olive oil is one that was extracted mechanically, with no chemical treatment.
Things get a little sketchy in the United States of America, however.
The confusion, explains Jim, comes from the fact that the term extra virgin isnt regulated in America.
In the European Union, extra virgin carries a very specific meaning thats written into the law.
(Fatty acids are released as the oil degrades, leading to off flavors and, eventually, rancidity.
Virgin olive oil can contain up to 2.0% acidity.)
Its not illegal, but its wrong.
Milling also requires skill and experience, explained Jim.
Theyre basically overpriced vegetable oil.
Who can you trust for good olive oil?
Things like harvest dates, olive varieties, and geographic details help, but theres no guarantee.
If you cant find a certified California oil, find a source you might trust.
Themost recent petition was filed in 2020.
Indeed, the NAOOA is also a signatory member to the IOCs Quality Monitoring Program.
Should you care about where the olives are grown?
The Italians complain that Spanish oil is bland, and the Spanish call Italian oil bitter.
But there are mild Italian oils and pungent Spanish oils, so its really more about the production.
The Italians complain that Spanish oil is bland, and the Spanish call Italian oil bitter.
Light or lite:This is a refined oil that has been after pressing.
Its light in color and flavor, not fat.
Can one olive oil do it all (including deep frying)?
Even high-heat roasting or grilling over direct heat wont make the oils smoke.
I dont think home cooks ever need to get an oil smoking hot, he added.
Once its smoking, its basically burnt.
This article was originally published on Jan. 12, 2022 and was updated at 3 p.m.
