Cilantro Oil
Mexican Cilantro Oil Recipe
Introduction
Cilantro oil is a versatile and flavorful oil that can be used in a variety of dishes to add a fresh and herbaceous touch. This recipe is simple to make and can be a great addition to your pantry.
History
Cilantro oil has been used in various cuisines around the world for centuries. It is a popular ingredient in Latin American, Asian, and Mediterranean dishes. The oil is known for its bright and refreshing flavor, making it a great addition to salads, marinades, and dressings.
Ingredients
- 250 ml (1 cup) of vegetable oil or olive oil
- 2 bunches of fresh cilantro
How to prepare
- Place the cilantro in a pot of boiling water for a few seconds, then transfer it to a bowl of ice water to cool.
- Squeeze out any excess water from the blanched cilantro.
- In a high-speed blender or food processor, combine the oil and cilantro and blend for 30 seconds. Strain the mixture through a cheesecloth.
Variations
- For a spicier version of cilantro oil, add a small chili pepper to the blender with the cilantro and oil. You can also experiment with adding other herbs like parsley, mint, or basil for a different flavor profile.
Cooking Tips & Tricks
When making cilantro oil, be sure to blanch the cilantro before blending it with the oil. This will help to preserve the vibrant green color of the oil and prevent it from turning brown. Additionally, be sure to strain the mixture through a cheesecloth to remove any solids and achieve a smooth consistency.
Serving Suggestions
Cilantro oil can be drizzled over salads, grilled vegetables, or roasted meats for a burst of fresh flavor. It can also be used as a marinade for chicken, fish, or tofu.
Cooking Techniques
Blanching the cilantro before blending it with the oil helps to preserve the vibrant green color of the oil and prevent it from turning brown. Be sure to strain the mixture through a cheesecloth to achieve a smooth consistency.
Ingredient Substitutions
If you don't have olive oil on hand, you can use another neutral oil like grapeseed or avocado oil. You can also use dried cilantro in place of fresh, but the flavor may not be as vibrant.
Make Ahead Tips
Cilantro oil can be made ahead of time and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. Be sure to shake or stir the oil before using it, as the ingredients may separate over time.
Presentation Ideas
Serve cilantro oil in a small pitcher or drizzle it over dishes using a squeeze bottle for a professional touch. Garnish with a sprig of fresh cilantro for a pop of color.
Pairing Recommendations
Cilantro oil pairs well with dishes like grilled shrimp, avocado toast, or roasted vegetables. It can also be used as a dipping sauce for crusty bread or drizzled over soups and stews.
Storage and Reheating Instructions
Store cilantro oil in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. If the oil solidifies in the fridge, simply let it come to room temperature before using. Do not heat the oil, as this can cause it to lose its flavor.
Nutrition Information
Calories per serving
Each serving of cilantro oil contains approximately 120 calories.
Carbohydrates
Cilantro oil is low in carbohydrates, making it a great option for those following a low-carb diet.
Fats
The main source of fat in cilantro oil comes from the olive oil used in the recipe. Olive oil is a healthy fat that is rich in monounsaturated fats, which can help to reduce inflammation and improve heart health.
Proteins
Cilantro oil does not contain any significant amount of protein.
Vitamins and minerals
Cilantro is a good source of vitamins A, C, and K, as well as minerals like potassium and manganese. These nutrients can help to support overall health and well-being.
Alergens
Cilantro oil is free of common allergens like gluten, dairy, and nuts. However, if you have a sensitivity to cilantro or olive oil, be sure to avoid this recipe.
Summary
Cilantro oil is a flavorful and nutritious addition to your cooking repertoire. It is low in carbohydrates, rich in healthy fats, and contains vitamins and minerals that can support overall health.
Summary
Cilantro oil is a versatile and flavorful oil that can add a fresh and herbaceous touch to a variety of dishes. This simple recipe is easy to make and can be a great addition to your cooking repertoire. Enjoy the bright and refreshing flavor of cilantro oil in salads, marinades, dressings, and more.
How did I get this recipe?
The first time I saw this recipe, I was hooked. It was during a trip to Mexico, where I had the opportunity to taste the most incredible cilantro oil I had ever experienced. The flavor was vibrant and fresh, and I knew I had to learn how to make it myself.
I asked the chef at the restaurant for the recipe, but he simply smiled and said it was a secret family recipe passed down through generations. Determined to recreate the delicious cilantro oil, I embarked on a journey to learn the art of making it.
Back home, I began experimenting with different combinations of ingredients, trying to recreate the flavors I had tasted in Mexico. I started with fresh cilantro, garlic, and olive oil, but something was missing. I reached out to friends and family for advice, scouring cookbooks and online forums for tips and tricks.
It was during a visit to my dear friend Maria that I finally found the missing piece of the puzzle. As we sat in her cozy kitchen, sipping tea and chatting about our travels, Maria mentioned that her grandmother used to make a similar cilantro oil using a special blend of herbs and spices.
Eager to learn more, I asked Maria if she could share her grandmother's recipe with me. With a warm smile, she agreed and began gathering the ingredients we would need to make the cilantro oil together.
We started by picking fresh cilantro from Maria's garden, the vibrant green leaves glistening in the sunlight. Next, we minced garlic and finely chopped jalapeños, adding a touch of heat to the mixture. We then blended the ingredients together with a generous amount of olive oil, creating a fragrant and flavorful cilantro oil that transported me back to Mexico.
As we tasted the finished product, I knew I had finally found the recipe I had been searching for. The cilantro oil was perfect – the flavors were balanced, the texture was smooth, and the aroma was intoxicating. I couldn't wait to share it with my family and friends, who all raved about its delicious taste.
Over the years, I continued to refine the recipe, adding my own twists and variations to make it truly my own. I experimented with different herbs and spices, adjusting the ratios of ingredients, and even incorporating new techniques I had learned from other cooks and chefs.
Each time I made cilantro oil, I felt a sense of satisfaction and pride, knowing that I had mastered a recipe that had once seemed so elusive. It became a staple in my kitchen, used to drizzle over salads, marinate meats, and dress up simple dishes with its bold and bright flavors.
Now, as I pass down the recipe for cilantro oil to the next generation, I hope that they too will find joy in creating this delicious and versatile condiment. It is a reminder of the power of food to connect us to different cultures and traditions, and the endless possibilities that come from experimentation and exploration in the kitchen.
So the next time you see a recipe that captures your imagination, don't be afraid to dive in and make it your own. Who knows what culinary adventures await – you may just discover your new favorite dish, just like I did with cilantro oil.