Types of olive oil: find out what each is used for

Types of olive oil: find out what each is used for


There are different types of olive oil, such as refined, virgin, extra virgin and truffled; understand in which preparations to use each of them

OR oil It is a widely used ingredient in daily kitchen preparations. In addition to giving a particular flavor to some recipes, it is beneficial because it is rich in vitamin E, also functioning as a natural anti-inflammatory and antioxidant.




Although all olive oils are made from the same ingredient, olives, there are different types. The main ones are truffled, refined, virgin and extra virgin. There are differences in color, flavor, aroma and even texture between them. So how do you know which one to use for each recipe?

According to Jaqueline Lopes, nutritionist at Água Doce Sabores do Brasil, you can’t use just anyone. There is types of olive oil ideal for every preparation. Below, explain what each of them is for:

Refined olive oil

Olive oil is called this when it has undergone refinement during the manufacturing process and has greater acidity. The good thing about this type is that it maintains its qualities even when heated to high temperatures. It is therefore the most suitable for grilled, fried and braised recipes.

virgin olive oil

Furthermore, virgin olive oil undergoes fewer alterations at high temperatures, making it one of the most suitable both for cooking and for seasoning hot and sautéed dishes. When in contact with heat it has a surprising aroma and a sweet flavour, despite a certain acidity.

Extra virgin olive oil

This is one of the types of olive oil that should not be used in frying or high-temperature dishes, as in these cases it may lose its benefits. So leave it for salads or even hot dishes that do not fall into the categories mentioned.

It is worth mentioning that this oil has a less acidic taste thanks to its noble form of extraction.

Truffle oil

Truffle oil is a mixture of this oil with some spices, such as truffle. It is not good for high temperatures, and is best suited for finishing recipes, not for preparing them.

In summary, for Jaqueline, the recommendation is the following: “For daily use I recommend virgin and extra virgin olive oil, as these are the most suitable for preparing salads. For special occasions, truffle oil is ideal, but it is important to remember the combination so as not to clash too much with the flavor of the recipe.”

Source: Cooking guide

Source: Terra

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