One of the biggest consumer trends of the past few years has been the increasing use of essential oils. More and more people are discovering all of the positive benefits of incorporating these oils into a daily routine. Many are wondering where they come from, and how they can use them. Both professional chefs and well-informed home cooks are finding that among their many uses they can significantly enhance the flavor of food. Here are four oils that you should consider when you’re thinking of combining these ingredients into your recipes.
Citrus
Citrus oils are not merely flavors or artificial extracts. These natural oils provide a huge boost to a variety of foods, and they are especially helpful when baking or making Asian-inspired cuisines. Genius Kitchen explains that citrus oils are beneficial if you happen to be out of an extract or ingredient. For example, lemon citrus oil can be used if a recipe calls for lemon zest and you do not have lemons on hand.
Cinnamon
Cinnamon oil has been used to boost brain function while also improving blood circulation. The powerful antioxidants present in cinnamon oil deliver immense overall health benefits, but don’t overdo it. Cinnamon oil is popular in baking recipes or as an addition to hot tea or coffee. doTERRA explains that due to its high content of cinnamaldehyde, cinnamon oil should be diluted with coconut oil, and only one to two drops are needed for internal benefits.
Peppermint
Peppermint can be used as a substitute for peppermint extract. Unlike extracts that burn off flavor when heated to high temperatures, the bold flavor of peppermint oil remains intact. Peppermint oil is an ideal ingredient in all sorts of candy, cookies, frostings and fudges. Remember that a little goes a long way when it comes to using essential oils in baking. Little House Living explains that peppermint is known for its cleansing properties as well as its ability to freshen breath and support optimum oral health.
Anise
The subtle black licorice flavor of anise gives it a place in many foods. Savvy chefs use anise in cookies, cakes and bread. The savory smell of anise is heavenly as your baked goods cook in the oven. Anise has a multitude of benefits, including maintaining oral health, diffusing hiccups and cleansing skin.
By thinking outside the box, you can seamlessly incorporate these essential oils into your kitchen routine. Not only do they deliver a host of health benefits, but they also provide a natural way to infuse an explosion of flavor and scent into a variety of foods and drinks. When you embrace the essential oils culture, the possibilities in the kitchen are endless.
