Did you realize that essential oils can be used to spice up your holiday cooking? Let’s take a look at how to use essential oils effectively with different types of foods.
When using essential oils in cooking you will get the aliveness of the oil along with the flavor without chemical additives and flavorings. However, there are specific ways to use your oils so you get the most therapeutic benefits.
Let’s begin with how to use essential oils in baking. When you are creating the batter, add 3-6 drops of your essential oils such as lavender or peppermint into your emulsifier. Most of the time this may be the oil you are using but it could be put into the egg mixture. The therapeutic benefits may be lost in the high temperatures of baking, however, the natural flavor will remain and you will not be giving yourself or your family chemical additives.
If you are making a sauce or dip, the amount of essential oil will depend on your base. If the sauce is a marinara or one with more liquid, then you will only need a couple drops of essential oil. Favorite oils for sauces include oregano, rosemary or basil. Other more liquid dishes would include soups, sorbets and glazes.
If you are creating a dip with a thicker base such as a cheese sauce, then you can use 3-6 drops of an essential oil. These dips are a bit heavier and therefore more oil drops may be needed for the flavor. In both situations, add the oil at the end of cooking time to get the best benefits.
If you are using the sauce or glaze on veggies or meats, again use at the end of the cooking time. I have included a few recipes below. If you would like more information on healthy tips and supportive therapies, please check out my website at the link below.
Recipes:
Brownies:
Mix up regular brownie recipe and at end add 3 – 4 drops peppermint. Bake as usual.
Sauces:
Add one drop of oregano, black pepper, and basil essential oil to your favorite sauce recipe. If making a smaller batch then just dip your toothpick in the oil and swirl into your sauce
Guacamole:
Add 6 drops lime essential oil to 3 mashed up avocados. Add chopped tomatoes, garlic, onion, salt and pepper as you wish.
