The Taste And Health Benefits Of Olive Oil For Cooking
Summary
- Polyphenol-rich extra virgin olive oils like Morocco Gold are an excellent choice for a wide range of cooking styles.
- Morocco Gold extra virgin olive oil has a smoke point around 374 – 405 °F (190–207°C), making it safe for a variety of cooking methods.
- The wide range of health benefits of extra virgin olive oil sets it apart from many other cooking oil choices.
Contents
- Why Quality Olive Oil Like Morocco Gold Is The Perfect Choice For Cooking.
- What Type Of Cooking Is Best With Extra Virgin Olive Oil (EVOO)?
- Cooking With Extra Virgin Olive Oil: Myths Vs Facts
- What Other Oils Are Good For Frying At High Temperatures?
- Health Benefits Of Cooking With Extra Virgin Olive Oil
- Why Choose Extra Virgin Olive Oil Over Other Oils?
Why Quality Olive Oil Like Morocco Gold Is The Perfect Choice For Cooking.
Polyphenol rich Olive Oil is a great choice of oil for cooking according to a new report from inews.co.uk. Contrary to popular misconception, olive oil is perfectly safe for cooking with heat as long as you choose the best olive oil for the job.
Morocco Gold has a smoke point is somewhere around 374 – 405 °F (190–207°C), making it a great choice for a variety of cooking methods. And, according to inews.co.uk, cooking with olive oil brings a multitude of health benefits.
Olive oil [is] famously part of the Mediterranean diet, which is an evidence-based eating approach that improves overall heart health and decreases risk of cardiovascular diseases including heart attack and stroke.”
Angel Luk, a registered dietitian
Scientific evidence shows that it is quite stable under heat and can be used safely for frying and oher cooking methods.
Swrajit Sarkar, a senior lecturer in nutrition at City St George’s, University of London
What Type Of Cooking Is Best With Extra Virgin Olive Oil (EVOO)?
Extra virgin olive oil is nothing more than pure juice of the olive. No chemicals have been added and it has not been blended with lower quality oils. It’s the best that olive oil you can get. Its high smoke point means it is perfect for high-temperature cooking such as stir-frying or any of these methods:
- Grilling/broiling / barbecuing – used to coat cuts like steaks or chops
- Shallow frying – cooking in a little oil for pan fry, sauté, griddle, stir fry
- Deep frying – submerging the food in hot oil
- Roasting – for coating vegetables or joints
- Baking – adds great flavour to breads
Cooking With Extra Virgin Olive Oil: Myths Vs Facts
A lot of “health experts” argue that high-quality evoo should not be used in cooking. The persisting myth goes that high heat will ruin some of olive oil’s health benefits. But is this true? As more research is undertaken in this are the answer is – yes, you can cook with evoo and yes – it is safe and beneficial to your health. There are many aspects that determine if a certain oil is safe for cooking. While olive oil is generally resistant to heat, some oxidation will happen. However, this is still preferable to other cooking oils. Let’s discover why!
What Other Oils Are Good For Frying At High Temperatures?
According to inews, Sunflower Oil and Rapeseed or Canola Oils also have some benefits for frying, roasting and deep-frying food.
“Sunflower oil is a strong candidate for frying due to its stability during repeated deep frying. It doesn’t produce trans-fats, which are harmful to cardiovascular health, making it a safer option compared to some other oils in similar conditions. Sunflower oil, particularly high-oleic versions, is rich in vitamin E (good for immunity) and has a similar fatty acid profile to olive oil. It is a good alternative for both cooking and drizzling.”
[Rapeseed or canola oils] have a neutral flavour, making it versatile for cooking, baking, and salad dressings,” Sarkar explained.
Health Benefits Of Cooking With Extra Virgin Olive Oil
Rich in Healthy Fats
What sets extra virgin olive oil apart is its high content of monounsaturated fats, primarily oleic acid. These healthy fats are linked to numerous health benefits, including reduced risk of heart disease. This allows you to incorporate these beneficial fats into your diet effortlessly.
Vitamins and Minerals Galore
Extra virgin olive oil contains essential vitamins such as E and K, along with trace minerals that further enhance its health benefits. Vitamin E is a powerful antioxidant that helps protect your cells, while vitamin K plays a crucial role in blood clotting and bone health.
One of the most lauded benefits of extra virgin olive oil is its positive impact on heart health. Studies have shown that regular consumption of this oil can lower bad cholesterol levels and reduce blood pressure, both of which are significant risk factors for heart disease.
Anti-Inflammatory Properties
Chronic inflammation is a root cause of many diseases, including arthritis and certain cancers. Extra virgin olive oil contains oleocanthal, a compound that has been shown to have anti-inflammatory effects similar to those of ibuprofen, making it a natural way to combat inflammation.
Weight Management
Believe it or not, incorporating extra virgin olive oil into your diet can aid in weight management. Its healthy fats help you feel fuller for longer, reducing the likelihood of overeating. This makes it an excellent choice for those looking to maintain or lose weight.
Why Choose Extra Virgin Olive Oil Over Other Oils?
Cold-Pressed Goodness Extra virgin olive oil is made by cold-pressing olives, a process that preserves its natural flavours and nutrients. Unlike refined oils, which undergo high-heat processing, extra virgin olive oil retains its healthful properties, making it a superior choice.
Versatility in Cooking
Whether you’re sautéing vegetables, grilling meats, or baking bread, extra virgin olive oil is incredibly versatile. Its robust flavour enhances a wide range of dishes, making it a staple in kitchens around the world.
