
How to Make Olive Oil From Scratch
How to Make Olive Oil From Scratch
By Oleastro Olive Park & Museum
Introduction
Olive oil has been a staple of Mediterranean culture for thousands of years, cherished for its health benefits and culinary richness. But how is this golden liquid actually made? Whether you're curious about traditional methods or modern extraction techniques, this guide will walk you through the process of making olive oil from scratch.
Step 1: Harvesting the Olives
Harvesting is the first step in producing high-quality olive oil. Traditionally, olives are picked by hand or using mechanical shakers. Timing is crucial—early-harvest olives tend to have a higher polyphenol content, contributing to the oil's health benefits.
For more on the importance of olive harvesting, visit Olive Oil Times.
Step 2: Washing and Sorting
Once harvested, olives are washed to remove dirt and debris. Leaves and twigs are separated to ensure that only fresh, high-quality olives enter the pressing process.
Step 3: Crushing the Olives
Traditionally, stone mills were used to crush olives into a paste. Today, modern stainless steel crushers are common, improving efficiency while preserving the integrity of the oil. This paste contains oil, water, and solid components of the olive.
Step 4: Malaxation (Mixing the Paste)
Malaxation is the process of slowly churning the olive paste to allow oil droplets to merge, improving oil extraction. This step is critical for achieving a higher oil yield and enhancing the flavor profile.
Step 5: Cold Pressing vs. Modern Centrifugation
Cold pressing, a traditional method, involves applying pressure to the paste to extract the oil. Modern facilities often use centrifugation, which separates the oil from the paste using high-speed spinning.
Cold-pressed olive oil retains more antioxidants and is often labeled as extra virgin olive oil.
Step 6: Filtration and Bottling
Once extracted, the oil is filtered to remove any remaining particles. It is then stored in stainless steel tanks before being bottled in dark glass containers to protect it from light and oxidation.
Health Benefits of Extra Virgin Olive Oil
Extra virgin olive oil is packed with antioxidants, healthy fats, and anti-inflammatory compounds. Research suggests that it may help reduce the risk of heart disease and improve brain function.
Learn more about the health benefits from Healthline.
Visit Oleastro Olive Park & Museum
If you want to see the olive oil-making process firsthand, visit Oleastro Olive Park & Museum in Cyprus. Experience traditional olive pressing, taste premium extra virgin olive oil, and learn about the cultural heritage of olive oil production.
Plan your visit today: Oleastro Olive Park & Museum.
Shop our premium olive oils: Oleastro Olive Oil Shop.