Flavored Olive Oil

One way to flavor your cooking is to use olive oil that has been infused with flavor. You can now purchase "specialty olive oil" for lots of money... or you can make your own! It is surprisingly simple.

If you want to experiment with your own flavor, simply pull together about 1/2 cup to 1 cup of your favorite seasonings and spices and add it to 2 cups of Olive Oil.

All of the following flavored oils start with 2 cups of olive oil. ALWAYS use a glass container with a tight lid to hold the oil. I will list the spices and seasonings to add to the oil under each recipe. Allow the oil to sit at room temperature for a few days before using to allow the flavors to infuse. The longer it sits, the deeper the flavor. There is no need to strain the oil before using. The oil should be good for about three months, but mine never lasts that long...


Fire Oil

1 Head of Garlic, peeled and crushed
1 Tbs. Red Pepper Flakes
1 Tsp. Black or White Pepper
1/2 cup Hot Peppers/Chiles of your choice, seeded and sliced into strips
1 Tbs. Smoked Paprika

The peppers you choose will determine the heat of the oil. If you prefer a milder oil, use a mild chile like Aneheim. If you really want the fire, use Habañero!


Italian Oil

1 Head of Garlic, peeled and crushed
2 Tbs. Basil
2 Tbs. Marjoram
2 Tbs. Oregano
2 Tbs. Rosemary
2 Tbs. Thyme

This is a great all-purpose oil for Italian Cuisine. Drizzle a bit of this over freshly cooked pasta for a real treat!


Southwestern Oil

2 Tbs. Chili powder
2 Tsp. Ground Cumin
2 Tbs. Paprika
1 Tsp. Black or White Pepper
1 Tbs. Ground Coriander
1 Tsp. Cayenne Pepper
1 Head of Garlic, peeled and crushed
1 Tsp. crushed red pepper
1 Tbs. dried oregano

This is great for making some Mexican or Tex-Mex foods.


Asian Oil

1 Tbs. Freshly Ground Peppercorn Medley
1 Tsp. Ground Anise Seed
1/2 Tsp. Ground cloves
1 Tbs. Ground cinnamon
1 Tbs. Ground fennel seeds

Great for Asian cooking... You can make this with Peanut or Sunflower Oil as well.


Sweet Oil

3 Tbs. ground cinnamon
2 Tbs. ground nutmeg
1 Tbs. ground allspice
1Tbs. ground cardamom

This one is great when making desserts!