Infusing milk with olive oil is a delightful way to enjoy the rich, smooth flavors of high-quality olive oil while reaping the health benefits of both ingredients. This unique combination offers a creamy texture with a hint of earthiness from the olive oil, making it perfect for sipping on its own, adding to your morning coffee, or using in culinary creations.
Ingredients
- 1 cup of whole milk (or any milk of your choice)
- 1 tablespoon of extra virgin olive oil
- Optional: A pinch of sea salt, honey, or vanilla extract for added flavor
Method
- Choose Your Olive Oil: Select a high-quality extra virgin olive oil for the best flavor and health benefits. The quality of the olive oil will greatly impact the taste of the infused milk, so opt for something robust and flavorful.
- Warm the Milk: In a small saucepan, gently warm the milk over low heat. Avoid bringing it to a boil; you only want to warm it enough to combine with the olive oil smoothly. Stir occasionally to prevent a skin from forming on the milk.
- Combine the Ingredients: Once the milk is warm, remove it from the heat and slowly whisk in the olive oil. Whisking continuously helps to create a smooth, homogenous mixture. If you’re adding any optional ingredients like honey or vanilla extract, do so at this stage and continue to whisk until fully incorporated.
- Blend (Optional): For a creamier and frothier texture, you can use an immersion blender or a regular blender to combine the milk and olive oil. This step is optional but recommended for a more luxurious consistency.
- Serve: Pour the olive oil-infused milk into a glass or mug. Enjoy it warm as a soothing beverage, or let it cool and store it in the refrigerator for later use. This infused milk can be added to your coffee, smoothies, or used in baking recipes that call for milk with a richer flavor profile.
- Storage: Store any leftover olive oil-infused milk in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Before using it again, give it a good shake or stir, as some separation may occur.
Benefits and Uses
Olive oil is known for its rich content of monounsaturated fats, antioxidants, and anti-inflammatory properties. When combined with milk, which is a great source of calcium, protein, and vitamins, you get a drink that’s not only delicious but also packed with nutrients.
Enjoy this luxurious infused milk as part of your morning routine, as a bedtime treat, or as a special ingredient in your favorite recipes. The subtle, savory notes of olive oil can elevate the flavors of desserts, coffee, and even soups, making this recipe a versatile addition to your kitchen repertoire.