Tasty

1. How old are the olive trees
2. When they bear fruit
3. When the olive harvest begins
4. What colours they take on and what it depends on
5. What are their prices in Greek markets and which are the most popular
6. What olives symbolize in Mediterranean culture
7. Types of olive oil extraction
8. Its characteristics and prices
9. How to identify quality olive oil

Olives

Olive trees are long-lived plants and can live several hundred years (sometimes even over a thousand years). Although they produce fruit, it is not until the seventh year after planting that they are unfit for consumption. The highest quality olives are not obtained until the thirtieth year of fruiting. The olive season lasts from November to March on average. The month in which they were harvested determines the color of the olive and its flavor. At the initial stage of ripening, the fruit has a dirty green tint. As they age, they turn reddish-purple and reach full maturity turning black. An interesting fact is that in some countries we can find olives in the shade of ivory. The most popular type of olive is Kalamata. They are shiny and dark. They are shaped like almonds and have a slightly fruity taste, so they are the perfect snack. Prices for these and other types of olives at regional markets vary from 1. 40 to 5. 50 euros per kg.

As an interesting fact, it is worth mentioning that the olive plays an important role in the traditions of the Mediterranean peoples. It symbolizes peace, reconciliation and victory.

Olive oil

However, this is not the only use of olives in the kitchen. Because of their naturally high fat content, they are used in the production of oil. This fat is extracted from both the flesh and the seeds. There are two types of oil pressing. Cold-pressed oil is characterized by high quality and lack of color, while the oil produced at higher temperatures loses quality and turns yellow. The true flavor of the oil should be tangy, slightly bitter, and fruity at the same time.

 

Thanks to its valuable vitamin F content, olive oil can be used as a natural cosmetic or body oil. In addition, it has medicinal properties. Among other things, it helps you avoid stroke, protects your heart, reduces the risk of type 2 diabetes and prevents cancer.

Oil prices start at 6 euros per litre and have no upper limit. This is due to the difference in quality and method of manufacture.

 

How to recognize a quality olive oil? The best of these is extra virgin oil, which is pressed from virgin olives. The most important consideration when it comes to choosing an oil is its acidity – the lower it is, the less saturated acids it contains. Be sure to store the olive product properly. It is better to avoid plastic and transparent bottles, because then it loses its properties.

 

 

It is worth mentioning that both olives and oil contain many minerals and vitamins that support the functioning of the body.

 

And are you a fan of olives? Let us know in the comments.