Olive oil is a kitchen staple that we use for cooking, marinating, and dipping. And like any other food ingredient, proper storage is key to ensure that it stays fresh and flavorful. So, what is the best way to store olive oil, and what containers work best?
First things first, olive oil should be stored in a tightly sealed container to prevent rapid oxidation. As a self-proclaimed olive oil enthusiast, I have made the mistake of not securing the cap tightly, only to find my precious oil has turned rancid. Trust me, there's nothing more disappointing than pouring rancid olive oil over your salad.
The best containers for olive oil storage are glass, ceramic, porcelain, or non-reactive metals like stainless steel. Reactive metals like copper or iron can react with the oil, damaging it and producing toxins. And whatever you do, don't store olive oil in plastic containers as it may absorb PVCs from the plastic.
It's also important to store olive oil in a cool, dark place, away from sunlight and heat sources. A wine cellar is an ideal place for storing olive oil, but let's be real, most of us don't have one of those. A kitchen cabinet located away from the stove and direct sunlight will work just fine.
Refrigeration can extend the life of olive oil without harming it, but it's not recommended for expensive extra virgin varieties as condensation may develop in the bottle, affecting the flavor. If properly stored, the shelf life of olive oil is a minimum of 15 months, and unopened, it should last for 2 years or more.
Now, what about flavored olive oils? Some may require refrigeration to preserve their additives, while others don't, so it's best to read the label carefully. And while it may be tempting to make your own flavored olive oils at home, it's not always safe. Some flavoring agents may promote the growth of bacteria and can only be safely added with commercial processes. Trust me, you don't want to mess with those pesky bacteria.
In conclusion, the key to storing olive oil is to keep it tightly sealed in a cool, dark place. And what better way to do that than with the KitchenToolz Ceramic Olive Oil Dispenser? With its tight seal and sleek design, it's the perfect addition to any kitchen. Plus, its easy-pour spout makes drizzling olive oil a breeze. And let's be honest, who doesn't want to feel like a fancy chef while drizzling olive oil over their dishes? So go ahead, store your precious olive oil in style with the KitchenToolz dispenser.