Central American Herb and Garlic Oil

Ingredients

In this Central American adaptation, we replace the traditional Italian parsley with cilantro, which is commonly used in Central American cuisine. Additionally, we infuse the oil with garlic to enhance the flavor and add a touch of richness. These modifications give the dish a distinct Central American twist while still maintaining the essence of the original recipe. We alse have the original recipe for Olio e prezzemolo, so you can check it out.

• 1 cup (240ml) extra virgin olive oil 1 cup (240ml) extra virgin olive oil
• 4 cloves garlic, peeled and crushed 4 cloves garlic, peeled and crushed
• 1/4 cup (15g) fresh cilantro leaves 1/4 cup (15g) fresh cilantro leaves
• 1 tablespoon (5g) fresh oregano leaves 1 tablespoon (5g) fresh oregano leaves
• 1 teaspoon (5g) salt 1 teaspoon (5g) salt

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 120 kcal / 502 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 14g, 2g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 0g, 0g
• Protein: 0g
• Fiber: 0g
• Salt: 2400mg

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a small saucepan, heat the olive oil over low heat.
2. 2.
   Add the crushed garlic cloves to the oil and let them infuse for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
3. 3.
   Remove the saucepan from heat and let the oil cool for a few minutes.
4. 4.
   In a blender or food processor, combine the cilantro, oregano, and salt.
5. 5.
   Pour the infused oil into the blender and blend until the herbs are finely chopped and well incorporated.
6. 6.
   Transfer the mixture to a clean glass jar and let it sit at room temperature for at least 24 hours to allow the flavors to meld.
7. 7.
   Store the Central American Herb and Garlic Oil in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Cilantro — Make sure to wash the cilantro thoroughly and pat it dry before using it in the recipe to remove any dirt or impurities.

Tips & Tricks

• For a spicier version, add a small amount of chopped chili peppers to the herb mixture.
• Experiment with different herbs like basil or mint to create your own unique flavor combinations.
• Use this oil as a marinade for grilled meats or vegetables to infuse them with the delicious flavors.
• Drizzle the Central American Herb and Garlic Oil over roasted potatoes or sweet potatoes for a flavorful twist.
• Add a spoonful of this oil to soups or stews to enhance their taste and aroma.

Serving advice

Serve the Central American Herb and Garlic Oil as a dipping sauce for crusty bread or as a drizzle over salads, grilled vegetables, or roasted meats. It can also be used as a marinade or finishing oil for various dishes.

Presentation advice

Transfer the Central American Herb and Garlic Oil to a decorative glass bottle or jar for an elegant presentation. You can also tie a ribbon around the bottle neck or attach a personalized label to make it a thoughtful homemade gift.