Turkish extra virgin olive oil (EVOO) is becoming globally famous for numerous reasons. Those reasons are its excellent quality, incredible history, and overall unique taste. As Turkey becomes an important country internationally, most of us want to know about what makes Turkish extra virgin olive oil unique. In this ultimate guide, we will find out the factors that contribute to the excellence of Turkish EVOO; from its history to its health cons and cooking versatility, we will have a look at everything. A Rich Heritage of Olive Cultivation The link between Turkey and olive cultivation is since thousands of years ago. It also makes it the oldest olive-growing area in the world. Turkey’s diverse climatic conditions and fertile soils, specifically in the Aegean and Mediterranean regions, give perfect conditions for olive trees to develop. Areas such as Avvalik, Avdin, and Milas are renowned for growing supreme quality olives that contribute to different flavors of Turkish EVOO. Quality Standards and Production Procedures Extra Virgin Classification Turkish EVOO is categorized as “Naturel Sizma.” It indicates that it is produced in mechanical ways. However, all this happens without the use of any chemicals or heat. This procedure stores the oil’s natural flavors, nice smells, and nutritional importance. To prove as an extra virgin, there is one condition to do so. The oil must have an acidity level of 0.8% or lower, ensuring a high-end quality product. Early Harvest and Cold Pressing Numerous Turkish manufacturers highlight early harvest techniques. They pick up olives when they are still green. This is to increase their antioxidant content. These olives are then cold-pressed during hours of harvesting. So, this is how they preserve their nutritional elements. As a result, strong and tasty oil is produced. Flavor Profiles and Culinary Uses Turkish EVOO is celebrated for its smooth taste with subtle fruity and floral notes. This makes it an adaptable selection for several cooking applications. From drizzling over salads to cooking traditional Turkish dishes, everything is then cooked tasty. Those foodies who like a bolder and unique taste prefer early harvest oils. Why? Because they contain a bitter and peppery taste. These attributes make Turkish extra virgin oil appropriate for both daily cooking and special dishes. Health Benefits Turkish extra virgin oil is not only tasty but also possesses many health advantages. It has a lot of monounsaturated fats. It helps in reducing cholesterol levels. Thus, it is very good for the heart. Furthermore, it is also rich in antioxidant nature such as polyphenols and vitamin E. They have anti-inflammatory properties and overall healthiness. Some Turkish EVOOs, such as Olizzi’s Baby Organic, are even formulated for infants. It is very healthy for babies. Opting for the High-Quality Turkish EVOO When Going for EVOO, follow these tips: Check for Certifications: Check for USDA Organic or other known certifications. They will show quality and authenticity. Thus, it will build your trust and make you a regular customer of them. Check Harvest and Lifespan: Certainly, freshness plays a very important role when it comes to food. Select oils with recent harvest dates and long lifespans. Check Packaging: Always check whether the bottles are of a dark color or not. Now, you must be wondering why you need them. Well, it’s because they preserve the quality of the oil. Turkish Extra Virgin Olive Oil Versus Other Cooking Oils Turkish extra virgin olive oil and other ordinary cooking oils have different qualities and uses. EVOO is famous for its unique taste, nice smell, and health advantages. These qualities make EVOO perfect for seasoning and dishes that are cooked on low flame. While other cooking oils are perfect for use on high-flame cooking foods. They are best for regular use to cook daily dishes. and is liked for its unique taste and possible health benefits. Extra Virgin Olive Oil (EVOO) vs. Other Cooking Oils: Taste: EVOO provides an overall strong, fruity taste. While other cooking oils, such as vegetable or canola oil, are more neutral in taste. Processing: EVOO is processed very minimum. However, it preserves its natural taste and qualities. Turkish Extra Virgin Olive Oil (EVOO): Region: Olive oil production in Turkey is concentrated in the western areas. These are the places where olive trees grow in large amounts. Quality: Turkish olive oils are considered to be the best in the world, according to Quora. Also, people believe that they have the best taste and quality for cooking food. A Summary for Both these Oils: Turkish extra virgin olive oil is considered to be the best oil for cooking. Whereas other cooking oils are also okay, but they are suitable for high-flame cooking foods. Also, olive oil feels light and is easily digested. While other cooking oils feel a little heavy as compared to olive oil. Famous Turkish Dishes that are Cooked in Olive Oil Imam Bayildi (Stuffed Eggplant) Zeytintagli Enginar (Artichokes) Zeytinyagli Taze Fasulye (Fresh green beans cooked in olive oil) Vegetable Oil Versus Olive Oil Certainly, vegetable oil is a common oil which is usually used for cooking. It is used to cook foods that require a high flame to get cooked. On the other hand, olive oil, specifically extra virgin oil, is made from olives, mostly minimally processed, and is liked for its unique taste and possible health advantages. Here is a more Detailed Comparison: Vegetable Oil: Source: Amalgamation of several plant oils such as canola, corn, soybean, or palm oil. Flavor: Normal taste. Not having any specialty. Processing: Very much refined, which may eliminate some advantageous nutrients. Smoke Point: Usually, high. Health Advantages: Some kinds, such as canola, are heart-healthy. But overall, they are less nutritious as compared to olive oil. Usage: Adaptable for daily cooking, baking, and frying because of its natural flavor. Price: Generally, it is more budget-friendly as compared to olive oil. Olive Oil (Especially Extra Virgin): Source: Made from olives Taste: Different and unique, mostly fruity and peppery. Processing: Less processed, especially extra virgin. It carries more nutrients and health benefits. Smoke Point: Lesser than vegetable or any other cooking oil. Health Advantages: Rich in monounsaturated fats and antioxidants. They are very good for heart health. Usage: Awesome for seasoning, sautéing, drizzling. Also, adding flavor to dishes such as salads, pasta, spaghetti, etc. Price: Usually more costly, especially extra virgin oil. A Summary for both of these Oils: If you can financially afford it, pick extra virgin olive oil for taste and health benefits. Otherwise, if you want to cook mostly common types of foods, go for vegetable oil. Wrap Up Turkish extra virgin olive oil is known for its great history, careful manufacturing ways, and exceptional taste. Surprisingly, whether you are a foodie or want to stay healthy, EVOO is the best option for you.