Whether you're a seasoned chef or exploring new options, avocado oil deserves a spot on every kitchen shelf. Let's dive into everything you need to know to use this amazingly versatile ingredient with confidence.
What is avocado oil?
Avocado oil is extracted from the pulp of the avocado fruit, unlike many other oils that come from seeds. The quality of the oil depends heavily on the quality of the fruit, so it's important to use the best avocados.
This also means that the oil has a similar profile to the fruit, giving it a unique set of properties that's perfect for everything from salad dressings to sautéing.
What does avocado oil taste like?
In its purest, extra-virgin form, avocado oil has a rich, delicate and buttery flavor. When refined, the oil has a neutral flavor and high smoke point.
The flavor of avocado oil can vary depending on the extraction method. Cold-pressed oils tend to have a more intense, buttery flavor, while refined oils are lighter and more neutral.
How is avocado oil made?
Production begins shortly after the harvesting of ripe avocados so the fruit doesn’t spoil.
The avocados are then washed, de-pitted and skinned so that the flesh can be crushed into a creamy pulp.
The oil is then extracted from the pulp using a centrifuge. To learn more about oil extraction methods click here.
Once extracted, the avocado oil is filtered until it is clear, smooth and free of any solids. High-quality avocado oil retains its naturally green tint. A green hue indicates that the avocado oil retains some of the fruit’s naturally occurring nutrients. It’s one of the reasons that avocado oil is considered to be one of the healthier cooking oils.
Avocado oil shelf life
Avocado oils can have a shelf life of about 6-18 months, depending on the storage conditions. It’s important to protect oils from light degradation and oxidation, which can cause oils to turn rancid faster.
Cooking with avocado oil
Avocado oil’s creamy flavor and high smoke point make it incredibly versatile in the kitchen. Here are just a few delicious ways you can use it to elevate your cooking:
Salad dressings and marinades: Its smooth, buttery flavor makes avocado oil a perfect base for salad dressings and marinades. Mix it with balsamic vinegar, lemon juice and your favorite herbs for a quick and healthy dressing. Either extra virgin or refined avocado oils are great for dressings.
Cooking, baking and frying: With a high smoke point, refined avocado oil is excellent for high-heat cooking methods like frying, sautéing or grilling. For baking, substitute avocado oil for butter or other oils. It can add a subtle richness to cakes, muffins and breads without overpowering the overall flavor.
Drizzling: Use avocado oil as a finishing touch on dishes like roasted vegetables, pasta or even popcorn. A light drizzle can enhance most flavors and add a touch of elegance.
Avocado oil for beauty and self-care
Avocado oil isn't just for cooking! It has a range of uses outside the kitchen as well:
Skincare: Avocado oil is a popular ingredient in skincare products because it’s great for moisturizing dry skin without leaving it oily.
Haircare: Apply a few drops of avocado oil to your hair to tame frizz, add shine and nourish your scalp. It can also be used as a deep conditioning treatment to strengthen and hydrate your hair.
Beauty treatments: Create your own beauty treatments at home by mixing avocado oil with other natural ingredients. For instance, combine it with honey and yogurt for a hydrating face mask or mix it with sugar for a gentle body scrub.
The La Tourangelle difference
Experience the joy of cooking with La Tourangelle’s naturally green Avocado Oil. With a light flavor and high smoke point, it makes the perfect addition to any kitchen.
At La Tourangelle, our oils are minimally processed without using chemicals during extraction, ensuring that our oils are always high quality.
We choose effective, low-impact packaging to protect the quality of our products, so that you can cook with the best.
Our avocado oils are packaged in infinitely recyclable tin, which is lighter to ship than glass and helps preserve oil quality by protecting against light degradation and oxidation.
Add La Tourangelle Avocado Oil to your kitchen lineup today and experience the difference that high-quality oils can make in your cooking. Whether you prefer the rich, flavorful profile of Extra Virgin Avocado Oil or the versatile, high-heat capabilities of refined Avocado Oil, when you choose La Tourangelle, know that you're choosing high-quality and authentic flavor.