Benefits of Homemade Vanilla Olive Oil
Vanilla olive oil is a healthy seasoning that combines natural vanilla with high-quality olive oil. It enhances the flavor complexity of dishes and adds a subtle vanilla aroma. Making your own vanilla olive oil is simple, as it is prepared using natural vanilla beans without any artificial additives, thereby promoting a healthier daily diet. It is ideal for salads, baking, and marinating, making it an essential multifunctional condiment in the kitchen.
Ingredients for Vanilla Olive Oil
▌Premium Extra Virgin Cold-Pressed Olive Oil
- Olive Oil: 500ml (one bottle; it is recommended to use high-quality extra virgin olive oil)
- Vanilla Beans: 2 pieces (preferably Bourbon or Tahitian vanilla beans)
Procedure for Making Vanilla Olive Oil
Pour some olive oil into a container for later use.
Prepare a sanitized and completely dry container, and pour a small amount of olive oil into it for later use.
Cut the vanilla beans and scrape out the seeds.
Using a small knife, split the vanilla beans lengthwise and scrape out the seeds to fully release their aroma.
Add the vanilla seeds to the container with the olive oil and stir evenly.
Gently stir the scraped vanilla seeds into the reserved olive oil to ensure even distribution.
Pour the mixture back into the bottled olive oil and let it sit for two weeks.
Return the mixture of vanilla seeds and olive oil to the bottle, seal it tightly, and let it stand for two weeks.
Shake the bottle regularly during this period.
It is recommended to shake the bottle every few days during the resting period to help the vanilla aroma infuse evenly into the olive oil.
The leftover vanilla pod shells can be steeped in vodka to make vanilla extract.Two Steps to Make Vanilla Extract (Vanilla Liqueur): A Comprehensive Guide to Storage and Use
Uses and Storage of Vanilla Olive Oil
Applications: Vanilla olive oil has a wide range of uses and is suitable for:
- Salad dressings: It adds a subtle vanilla aroma.
- Baking: It imparts a unique flavor to items such as cookies or bread.
- Marinating meats or seafood: It enhances the complexity of the ingredients.
- Beverage garnishing: A small amount added to coffee or milk tea boosts the aroma.
Storage: Vanilla olive oil should be stored in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. It is recommended to keep it sealed, and during use, ensure the bottle opening remains clean to prevent contamination.
Frequently Asked Questions about Homemade Vanilla Olive Oil
Can I use other types of vanilla pods?
Yes, both Bourbon and Tahitian vanilla pods are suitable; you can choose based on your flavor preference.
Do I need to heat the olive oil?
This recipe does not require heating the olive oil; however, if you desire a clearer oil, you may filter it before use.
Can I substitute olive oil with another oil?
Yes, you can use alternatives like grapeseed oil or coconut oil, but olive oil best preserves the natural aroma of vanilla.
Can the resting time be shortened?
It is recommended to let it sit for at least two weeks, so that the aroma can fully infuse into the olive oil.
Can I use any olive oil?
It is recommended to use premium extra virgin cold-pressed olive oil, which is drinkable. The resulting vanilla olive oil can be enjoyed directly by dipping bread into it.
Can I steep the whole vanilla pod instead of just scraping out the seeds?
Yes, you can, but since the moisture content varies among vanilla pods, soaking the whole pod might not last as long; after a while, the oil may develop an off-flavor. It is recommended to test in small quantities to avoid spoilage if the vanilla oil is not used quickly.