What has a rich gold hue and can cost in the triple figures? No, not Champagne. I’m talking extra virgin olive oil (a.k.a EVOO)
Now a staple on practically every kitchen counter from Cornwall to the Cairngorms, the UK is projected to consume – gulp – 65,000 metric tons by 2026, according to market reporter ReportLinker.
Analysts say we Brits devour around a litre a year per person, but that’s not a patch on Mediterranean countries like Spain, Italy and Greece, where Europe’s finest extra virgin olive oils are harvested and produced. There, the average consumption is a whopping 13 litres per adult. It’s no coincidence these nations have among the highest life expectancy rates on the Continent.
Cooking shows, online chefs and improved knowledge about the golden elixir’s many health benefits are some of the reasons why we’re so wild about the liquid gold.
Adding extra virgin olive oil to your daily diet can improve the flavour of some foods, improve digestion and lower cholesterol thanks to all the antioxidants and monounsaturated fats it contains. Many claim it helps their weight loss efforts, leaving them feeling satisfied for longer.
EVOO sings in salad dressings like vinaigrettes or as a dip for warm hunks of bread. Drizzle it over pizza crusts or pots of hummus, or brush some over the premium cuts you’re about to throw on the barbecue. Some folk even swear by downing a spoonful of the stuff every morning to get their daily dose ticked off first thing.
What does cold-pressing olive oil mean?
Cold-pressed is the only option when it comes to EVOO. It means the oil from the fruit (the olive) is extracted at temperatures lower than 27°C, preserving the goodness, flavour and aroma to ensure customers are getting the best bang for their buck.
As for ‘extra virgin’? Well, this means that oil has come from the initial olive pressing, so the liquid contains the lowest possible acidity. All combine for a smooth, rich flavour that you’ll want to smother over just about everything in your kitchen cupboards.
You need only walk down a supermarket aisle to know there’s a flummoxing array of choice on offer. If you’re seeking the best EVOO for your Sterling, for gifting or guzzling all to yourself, we’ve rounded up the best bottles around.
Dining and Cooking