In recent years, the trend of adding olive oil to coffee has gained popularity, with many claiming it adds a unique flavor and offers potential health benefits. That trend has since exploded thanks to Starbucks releasing their new Oleato range with olive oil in coffee. In this blog post, we’ll take a closer look at the science behind olive oil in coffee, explore its potential health benefits, and discuss any risks or downsides. We’ll also provide a recipe and instructions for making your own olive oil coffee at home.
Related: Mushroom coffee.
The Flavor
One of the main reasons why people add olive oil to coffee is to enhance the flavor. Olive oil has a distinct taste that can add a depth of flavor to coffee. It can provide a fruity and nutty aroma that can complement the bitterness of coffee.
The taste can also vary depending on the type of olive oil used. For instance, extra virgin olive oil has a stronger flavor compared to regular olive oil, which can affect the taste of coffee. It’s worth experimenting with different types of olive oil to find the perfect balance of flavors that suits your taste buds.
However, it’s worth noting that adding too much olive oil can overpower the taste of coffee, so it’s best to start with a small amount and adjust accordingly. Also, the addition of olive oil can change the texture of coffee, making it thicker and creamier.
If you’re someone who loves frothy coffee, adding a bit of olive oil can give your coffee a velvety texture. Overall, the addition of olive oil can add a unique twist to your daily cup of coffee, enhancing the flavor and texture in new and interesting ways.
Related: Papaya Coffee.
The Health Benefits
Aside from its potential to enhance the flavor of coffee, adding olive oil to your coffee may also offer some health benefits. Olive oil is rich in antioxidants and healthy fats, which can have a positive impact on your health.
One of the main benefits of olive oil is its ability to reduce inflammation in the body. Chronic inflammation has been linked to a range of health conditions, including heart disease, cancer, and Alzheimer’s disease. The polyphenols found in olive oil can help reduce inflammation, which may help lower the risk of these diseases.
Olive oil is also a good source of monounsaturated fatty acids (MUFAs), which can help reduce cholesterol levels in the blood. High levels of cholesterol can increase the risk of heart disease, so incorporating MUFAs into your diet can help reduce this risk.
Additionally, studies have shown that consuming olive oil may help improve brain function and reduce the risk of depression. The healthy fats found in olive oil may help improve cognitive function and mood, making it a great addition to your morning routine.
However, it’s worth noting that adding olive oil to coffee alone may not provide enough of these health benefits to make a significant impact. It’s important to consume olive oil as part of a balanced diet to reap its full health benefits.
Related: Skin benefits of coffee.
The Science
The use of olive oil in coffee is based on the science of emulsification. Emulsification is the process of mixing two immiscible liquids, such as oil and water, to form a stable mixture. In this case, coffee and olive oil are the two liquids being mixed.
When you add a small amount of olive oil to coffee and mix it, the oil droplets become evenly dispersed throughout the coffee, creating a stable emulsion. This can alter the flavor and texture of the coffee, creating a unique taste experience.
Additionally, the polyphenols found in olive oil have been shown to have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which may provide health benefits when consumed with coffee. However, more research is needed to fully understand the potential health benefits of adding olive oil to coffee.
It’s also worth noting that some experts have expressed concerns about the potential health risks of consuming heated olive oil. When heated to high temperatures, olive oil can produce harmful compounds that may increase the risk of cancer and other health problems. However, the amount of olive oil added to coffee is typically small, and the temperature of coffee is not hot enough to cause significant chemical changes in the oil.
How to Make Olive Oil Coffee at Home
If you’re curious about trying olive oil in your coffee, it’s easy to make at home. Here’s a simple recipe to get you started:
Ingredients:
- 1 cup of hot coffee
- 1 tablespoon of extra virgin olive oil
Instructions:
- Brew a cup of hot coffee using your preferred brewing method.
- Pour the hot coffee into a mug.
- Add 1 tablespoon of extra virgin olive oil to the coffee.
- Use a whisk or a frother to mix the coffee and olive oil until it forms a smooth and creamy texture.
- Enjoy!
You can adjust the amount of olive oil to your liking, depending on how strong you want the olive oil flavor to be. You can also experiment with different types of olive oil to see which one works best for you.
It’s worth noting that while olive oil can add a unique twist to your coffee, it’s not for everyone. If you have a sensitive stomach or are prone to heartburn, adding olive oil to your coffee may not be the best option. It’s always a good idea to consult with your healthcare provider before making any significant changes to your diet.
The Final Sip
In conclusion, olive oil in coffee may sound like a strange concept, but it’s worth giving it a try if you’re looking for a new way to enjoy your daily cup of coffee. Not only does it add a unique flavor and texture to coffee, but it also has potential health benefits.
However, it’s important to remember that adding olive oil to coffee alone may not provide enough of these health benefits to make a significant impact. It’s important to consume olive oil as part of a balanced diet to reap its full health benefits.
