Herb Oils Cooking & Preserving

Herb oils are a popular addition to food, as well as a useful tool in aromatherapy, massage and muscle rubs. Two important aspects of making and preserving herb oil are to allow enough time for the oil to absorb the essence of the herbs and storing the herb oil properly to ensure that it remains fresh and clean.

Choosing Herbs

Use fresh herbs when they are available to ensure the best flavor and strength. Herb oils can be used for cooking, aromatherapy, massage and sore muscle rubs. So choose herbs that are the most appropriate for each. Popular herb oils for cooking include red pepper, garlic, basil and thyme. Aromatherapy oils include scents with pleasant aromas, such as lavender and chamomile.

If you choose to combine herbs for cooking oils, use herbs that complement each other. Parsley, basil, thyme and oregano are a popular combination for Italian dishes.

Cold Infusions

Olive oil typically is used as the foundation of herb oils, but other acceptable oils include grape seed, soy and sunflower. Pour the oil into a jar and add about 3 oz. of the fresh herb of your choice. Add more if you want a stronger flavor.

Another way to increase the flavor and aroma of your herb oil is to steep the herbs for a longer period of time. Once you seal the jar containing your oil and herbs, keep it in a cool place for at least a day, but feel free to let it sit for up to three days.

Use cheesecloth to strain the oil, removing the herbs from your mixture.

Heated Herb Oils

If there are time constraints and the cold infusion method is not practical, the oil can be heated to shorten the infusion process. Heat the oil to 200 degrees Fahrenheit, and then pour it in the jar containing your herbs. Let the mixture stand overnight, and it will be ready for straining and immediate use.

Another, even quicker option is to heat both the oil and the herbs in a shallow pan. Simmer the oil and herbs together for at least one hour over low heat. Then strain the oil into a jar. You can use the herb oil immediately.

Preserving and Storing Herb Oils

The most important aspect of preserving herb oil is to store it in a sterile container that has an airtight lid. You can buy canning materials, or sterilize jars and containers that have been used previously. If you plan to store the herb oil for a long period of time before use, melt wax over the lid to ensure an airtight seal.

Store herb oils in a cool place, preferably away from sunlight.

References

• Herbal Medicine; Vicki Pitman; 1994
• FoodNetwork.com: Herb Oil Recipe; Alton Brown

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