Dressings Made from Vinegars and Oils

  Dressings made by using oils and vinegars are commonly known as Vinaigrettes and are really popular. But it can be a daunting task when thinking of using these two ingredients together in the same dressing which is evident from the fact that the two ingredients do not mix together too well. A small experiment would imply this fact by trying to mix oil and vinegar in a bottle the oil would stay at the top while the vinegar would remain at the bottom of the bottle.

But oil and vinegar can be used in such a way that the two would remain together for a short duration of time which can be given the name of temporary emulsion. While making Vinaigrettes, oil and vinegar should be used in a proper proportion and this has to be strictly followed. The ratio of oil to vinegar should be 3:1. This ratio can be played with as different oils and vinegars are stronger than the others so the best way is to go by your taste. Salad and vegetable oils are the most commonly used in vinaigrettes. Seeing the wide variety available it is up to an individual to decide what oil and vinegar should be used and how the recipe has to be tuned according to it.

Oils and Vinegars worth spending

Extra virgin olive oil is obtained from the first pressing of olives and the younger this oil is the better. Good oil can also be used as a replacement for butter on bread. Extra virgin olive oil should not be used for cooking since even a low heat can cause it to burn. However virgin olive oils are acceptable for cooking and they have a distinct flavor apart from their health benefits.

Balsamic vinegar of good quality tastes sweet, is thick in texture and a even a small quantity of it put in a dish enhances its flavor. It can be added either during the cooking process or as it is. There are a number of flavored oils and vinegars also available in the market which are full of flavor and come in attractive packaging. Most of the flavored oils and vinegars offer convenience rather than quality. But there are a few which are worth spending a little extra such as Truffle oil. There is a wide variety of oils and vinegars available in the market and spending a little extra on them is a good investment as they are added in small quantity and are economical in the long run.