Bread dipping with olive oil is a longstanding culinary tradition that has endured through the years. Whether you're an experienced food enthusiast or a newcomer to the world of gastronomy, this simple and refined practice can elevate your dining experience. In this blog post, we'll explore the art of creating and using olive oil for bread dipping, transforming a humble slice of bread into a gourmet delight.
Choosing the Right Olive Oil
The success of any bread dipping adventure starts with selecting the right olive oil. Extra virgin olive oil is the preferred choice for this purpose. It's the highest quality and most flavourful type of olive oil. Look for a bottle labelled "extra virgin" and, if possible, choose one that is cold-pressed for a richer and more complex flavour.
Choosing the Right Bread
The choice of bread is crucial for bread dipping. Opt for a crusty, artisanal bread like a baguette, ciabatta, or a rustic sourdough. The bread should be fresh and slightly warm for the best experience.
Presentation Matters
Presentation adds to the overall experience. Use a shallow, wide dish or a small plate to pour the olive oil. If you've infused it with herbs and spices, garnish it with a sprig of fresh herbs or a sprinkle of chili flakes. Arrange your bread slices on a separate plate, preferably torn or cut into bite-sized pieces for easy dipping.
Dipping Techniques
Dipping bread into olive oil is an art in itself. Here's how to savour it:
a. Hold a piece of bread by the edge, allowing the crumb to soak up the oil and flavours.
b. Swirl the bread gently to coat it evenly.
c. Savour the moment - the textures, the flavours, and the aromas.
Pairing with Accompaniments
While the combination of olive oil and bread is delightful on its own, you can enhance your bread dipping experience by pairing it with complementary ingredients. Some popular options include:
- Balsamic vinegar: For a sweet and tangy contrast.
- Freshly grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a rich and savoury dimension.
- Sundried tomatoes, olives, or roasted red peppers: These provide a burst of Mediterranean flavours.
Bread dipping with olive oil is a timeless culinary tradition that has transcended generations. It's a simple yet delightful way to celebrate the rich flavours of olive oil while indulging in the sensory pleasure of savouring freshly baked bread. So, gather your ingredients, choose your flavours, and savour the art of bread dipping with olive oil. It's an experience that's bound to become a cherished part of your culinary repertoire.
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon crushed red pepper
- 1 tablespoon freshly cracked black pepper
- 1 tablespoon dried oregano
- 1 tablespoon dried basil
- 1 tablespoon dried parsley
- 1 teaspoon dried lemon rind
- 1 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 1 1/2 teaspoon coarse sea salt
- 3 cloves garlic , freshly crushed or minced
- extra virgin olive oil
Instructions
-
Combine the crushed red pepper, black pepper, oregano, basil, parsley, lemon rind, onion powder, rosemary, sea salt and crush garlic. Mix well.
-
If serving immediately, place the spice mixture in a shallow plate. Drizzle the desired amount of extra virgin olive oil over, serve. Combine extra virgin olive oil and dry spices and allow to soften before serving.