Olive oil with thyme flavor

Flavored oils are a culinary delicacy that can transform any meal into a gourmet experience. Think of them as a well-kept secret of chefs, capable of adding intense flavor notes to dishes and providing an extra touch of refinement. Today, I will share my simple and deliciously aromatic recipe for thyme-infused olive oil, along with some suggestions to diversify it, so you can expand your flavor range at home.

Preparation time: 10 minutes
Infusion time: 2 weeks
Number of servings: 200 ml
Calories: Approximately 884 calories per 100 ml (depending on the olive oil used)
Nutritional benefits: Olive oil is rich in monounsaturated fatty acids, antioxidants, and vitamins, having beneficial effects on cardiovascular health.

Basic ingredients:

- 200 ml extra virgin olive oil (choose a high-quality oil for the best flavors)
- Fresh thyme sprigs (or dried, but fresh will provide a more vibrant taste)

Step by step to obtain the flavored oil:

1. Preparing the bottle: Start by cleaning and sterilizing a glass bottle with a tight lid. You can do this by boiling the bottle for 10 minutes or washing it in the dishwasher at high temperatures. Ensure that the bottle is completely dry before adding the ingredients.

2. Adding the thyme: Wash the thyme sprigs under a stream of cold water to remove any impurities. Dry them well with a paper towel. Remove the leaves from the sprigs, leaving only a few for a more intense infusion. Place the thyme in the sterilized bottle.

3. Adding the oil: Carefully pour the olive oil over the thyme sprigs, ensuring that all the leaves are completely covered with oil. It is important not to leave air bubbles in the bottle, as they can lead to the oil going rancid.

4. Sealing the bottle: Close the bottle with a tight lid and label it, mentioning the date and type of flavor. This will help you keep track of how long the oil has been infused.

5. Infusing: Store the bottle in a cool, dark place, away from light and heat, for about 2 weeks. This step is crucial as it allows the flavors to develop and combine.

6. Finalizing: After two weeks, check the aroma of the oil. If you want a more intense taste, you can let it infuse for a few more days. Once you are satisfied with the aroma, strain the oil and pour it into a clean bottle for use.

Serving and usage suggestions:
Thyme-infused olive oil is versatile and can be used in various dishes. You can add it to fresh salads for a Mediterranean flavor, use it to make bruschetta with tomatoes and mozzarella, or drizzle it over grilled vegetables. It is also excellent for adding flavor to meat or fish dishes.

Delicious variations:
If you want to explore other flavors, here are a few suggestions:

- Basil-infused olive oil: Follow the same procedure, replacing thyme with fresh basil leaves. It is perfect for pasta and salads.
- Garlic-infused olive oil: Add a few whole (unpeeled) garlic cloves to the bottle with oil. This variant is ideal for dressings and grilled dishes.
- Chili-infused olive oil: Add a few dried or fresh chili peppers to the bottle for a spicy infusion. This oil is wonderful for pizza and Mexican dishes.

Frequently asked questions:

1. How long can I keep the flavored oil?
Flavored oils can be stored for up to 6 months, but it is important to keep them in a cool, dark place.

2. Can I use other types of oil?
Of course! While olive oil is the most popular, you can also experiment with oils like sunflower oil or avocado oil.

3. Is it safe to add fresh ingredients?
Yes, but it is recommended to use fresh ingredients that are well washed and dried to prevent bacterial growth.

4. What other recipes can I try with the flavored oil?
This oil pairs perfectly with simple recipes like salads with feta cheese, aglio e olio pasta, or even in marinades for meat.

In conclusion, flavored oils are an excellent way to add a touch of creativity to your cooking. Experiment with various flavors and combinations to discover what delights you the most. Whether you choose to stick with the simple thyme-infused olive oil recipe or explore alternative variations, you will find that every drop of oil will transform your meals into a true celebration of flavors. Take advantage of this opportunity to personalize your recipes and bring a splash of flavor into your everyday life!