Portuguese olive oil is internationally acclaimed for its superior quality and unparalleled flavor. Blessed with a climate ideal for olive cultivation, Portugal stands out as one of the world’s leading producers of this precious nectar. The Alentejo and Trás-os-Montes regions are particularly notable for their award-winning olive oils that captivate the most discerning palates worldwide. The excellence of Portuguese olive oil can be attributed to several factors. Starting with ancestral tradition. Olive cultivation in Portugal dates back thousands of years, perpetuating techniques and knowledge passed down from generation to generation. This heritage guarantees us authentic olive oils with soul. From the olive harvest to the oil extraction process, each step is carried out with extreme attention and care, ensuring the preservation of the final product’s sensory and nutritional properties. Portugal’s mild and sunny climate provides the ideal environment for olive trees to thrive, resulting in healthy, flavorful fruit. Additionally, Portugal boasts a wide variety of olive varieties, each with unique characteristics that contribute to the richness and complexity of the olive oils.
Extra virgin olive oil: a Portuguese culinary treasure
Extra virgin olive oil, the highest grade of olive oil, is obtained solely by mechanical means from fresh olives, without the addition of chemicals. To bear this title, the oil’s free acidity must be less than 0.8%, a measure that attests to its purity and exceptional quality. However, the world of olive oils offers a variety of options to suit different needs and tastes.
Types of olive oil
Extra virgin olive oil: the purest and highest quality, with a maximum acidity of 0.8%. Ideal for raw consumption, enhancing the flavor of salads, cold dishes, and bruschetta. Virgin olive oil: also obtained by mechanical pressing, it has a slightly higher acidity, up to 2%. It is suitable for dressing salads, vegetables, and grilled fish. Olive oil: a blend of refined olive oil and virgin olive oil, with a maximum acidity of 1.5%. Versatile for various uses in the kitchen, from frying to sautéing. Olive pomace oil: extracted from olive pomace after the oil has been pressed, it has a less intense flavor and is used mainly for frying and general cooking.
Benefits of olive oil
In addition to its unparalleled flavor, extra virgin olive oil offers a range of health benefits: Cardiovascular health:
- Rich in monounsaturated fatty acids, olive oil helps lower LDL (“bad”) cholesterol and raise HDL (“good”) cholesterol, promoting heart health.
- Antioxidant power: the presence of polyphenols fights free radicals, slowing cellular aging and protecting the body against disease.
- Anti-inflammatory properties: olive oil has anti-inflammatory properties that can help prevent chronic diseases.
- Easier digestion: olive oil aids digestion and can help prevent gastric ulcers.
How can you tell if olive oil is pure?
Although assessing the purity of olive oil can be challenging, a few simple steps can help you make the right choice:
- Pay attention to the label: look for terms like “100% pure” or “extra virgin,” which indicate the highest quality.
- Aroma and flavor: pure olive oil has a fruity aroma and a slightly bitter and spicy flavor, distinctive characteristics of an authentic product.
- Cold test: place the olive oil in the refrigerator for a few hours. Pure olive oil tends to partially solidify when chilled, indicating the presence of natural solid fats.
Quality certifications: olive oils with certification seals, such as DOP (Protected Designation of Origin), guarantee the product’s origin and authentic characteristics.
Tips for getting the most out of authentic Portuguese olive oil
- Storage: Store the olive oil in a cool, dark, and dry place, in a glass or stainless steel container.
- Consumption: Use the olive oil within 18 months of opening to ensure maximum flavor and benefits.
- Pairing: Explore the versatility of Portuguese olive oil in a variety of dishes, from salads and grilled meats to pasta and desserts.
Cruet Sets
At Companhia Atlântica has cruets worthy of its importance! This accessory not only preserves the quality of the olive oil but also adds a touch of sophistication to your table. The Breezy ceramic cruet, with its elegance and functionality, is the perfect complement to any type of olive oil. Another beautiful option is the Alicatos oil cruet, which conveys not only beauty but also a deep cultural narrative. For those who love the sea, we have the oil cruet from the Comporta line.
Inspired by this bucolic setting, the piece captures the colors and geography of this beach, depicted in its stripes and play of color.
Explore our entire ceramic collection and add a touch of beauty and tradition to your table.