Herb Infused Olive Oil
Oil acts as a solvent for the essential oils found in woody herbs like rosemary and thyme. When done correctly, the result is a stable, fragrant base for finishing dishes or dipping bread.
Moisture is the enemy
Ensure all herbs are washed and patted completely dry before they touch the oil. Any lingering water will create a breeding ground for bacteria.
- Small heavy-bottomed saucepan
- Thermometer
- Fine-mesh sieve
- Sterilized glass bottle
What goes in.
- 1 cupextra virgin olive oil
- 4 sprigsfresh rosemary
- 6 sprigsfresh thyme
- 2 clovesgarlic, smashed
- 1 tsppeppercorns
The low-temp steep
Keep the oil temperature strictly between 150°F and 180°F. If the oil bubbles aggressively, you are frying the herbs rather than infusing them.
The method.
Prep the aromatics
Strip the woody stems from the herbs if they are tough, or leave sprigs intact for easy removal. Smash the garlic cloves to release their juices.
Heat the oil
Combine the oil and aromatics in the saucepan over low heat. Monitor with your thermometer.
Infuse
Maintain the target temperature for 20 minutes. You will see small, steady bubbles rising from the garlic and herbs.
Strain
Remove from heat and let cool for 10 minutes. Pour through a fine-mesh sieve into a clean, dry glass bottle. Discard the spent herbs.
Other turns to take.
Spicy Infusion
Add two dried whole chili peppers to the oil at the start of the heating process.
Citrus Infusion
Add wide strips of lemon zest—avoiding the bitter white pith—during the last 5 minutes of heating.
When it doesn't go to plan.
Use high-quality olive oil; the infusion will only be as good as the starting fat.
Store the finished oil in a cool, dark cupboard to prevent oxidation.
If the oil turns cloudy, it has been exposed to too much cold or moisture; store it at room temperature.
The ones that keep coming up.
Can I leave the herbs in the bottle for aesthetic appeal?
No. Any organic material left in the oil will eventually rot and pose a safety risk. Strain them out completely.
How long does this keep?
For best quality, use within two weeks. Always keep the bottle tightly sealed.
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