A simple, delicious oil you can make at home—perfect for salads, marinades, or bread. Use any leftover herbs you have on hand and get creative with the flavor!
Herb oil made with fresh herbs and garlic should be kept in the refrigerator and used within one week. If you strain out the herbs and garlic after infusing, the oil can last up to one month in the fridge. Avoid storing garlic-infused oil at room temperature.
Ingredients:
200 ml olive oil (extra virgin for best flavor)
1 handful of fresh herbs from your Auk (e.g. basil, thyme, rosemary, oregano, parsley, or a mix)
1–2 whole garlic cloves (optional)
1 tsp salt (optional)
1/2 tsp pepper (optional)
Lemon zest (optional, for a fresh citrus flavor)
Instructions:
Prepare the herbs: Harvest herbs from your Auk. Use one type or mix as you prefer.
Chop the herbs: Finely chop the herbs to help release more flavor into the oil.
Prepare the garlic (optional): If using garlic, peel and lightly crush the cloves (don’t chop). This gives a mild, pleasant garlic flavor to the oil. Note: Garlic in oil must be stored in the fridge and used within a week to avoid the risk of bacterial growth.
Gently heat the olive oil: Pour the olive oil into a saucepan and warm it gently over low heat. The oil should be warm, not hot - around 60–70°C (140–160°F). This helps infuse the flavors without making the oil too strong.
Add herbs and flavorings: Once the oil is warm, remove it from the heat and add the chopped herbs, garlic (if using), salt, pepper, and lemon zest (if using). Stir gently and let it infuse for at least 20-30 minutes.
Storage: Pour the oil into a clean, dry bottle or jar with a lid. Store the herb oil in a cool, dark place or in the refrigerator.
Tips:
If you prefer a smooth oil without bits of herbs or garlic, strain the oil through a fine sieve or cheesecloth after it’s infused.
Let the oil infuse for several hours or overnight for a more intense flavor.
Experiment with different herb combinations to find your favorite!
Add chili flakes for a little extra kick.
Pack the finished oil in a decorative jar - makes a thoughtful gift!
Good luck!
