Dalmatian extra-virgin olive oil
Nevertheless, all peoples of the Mediterranean have used Olive Oil for cooking, medicinal, cosmetic and even for terms of payment for millennia. Because of its preservative nature, the Croatians, have used Olive Oil to preserve fish and cheeses, and the rich Olive Oil flavor is the seasoning of choice for all roasting, grilling or marinating.
So why is Dalmatian Olive Oil so hard to find? Just 100 years ago, the Dalmatian Coast boasted tens of millions of olive trees and groves. Yet, production and crops were significantly depleted during World War II, and only a fraction remained in production during the Socialist years, which was used primarily for personal consumption. Today, one can still find ancient olive trees dating back more than 17 centuries throughout the Dalmatian Coast and Istria, alongside younger crops that thrive in their idyllic climate. Producers of Dalmatian extra virgin Olive Oil focus on the highest quality and traditional methods to preserve the oils distinctively Croatian qualities.
Why extra virgin Olive Oil? Other than its delicious flavor, the beneficial heath effects of Olive Oil are countless. To name a few, it is said that Olive Oil's monunsaturated fatty acids act as an antioxidant, it protects against heart disease, lowering bad cholesterol (LDL) while raising good cholesterol (HDL) levels, and is also known to improve ulcers, gastritis and certain skin disorders. Spanish researchers also suggest that Olive Oil protects against colon cancer. In sum, it's good for you!
Croatian Extra Virgin Olive Oil is made primarily from four olive varieties: Leccino, Buga, Levantinka and Oblica. Dalmatian Kitchen, Inc. works with the finest Croatian Olive Oil producers to preserve superior Olive Oil characteristics by remaining true to the hand-picked, cold-pressed technique. Our olives are grown on the islands off of the coast of Split, where they are later pressed, bottled and imported to the United States.
Dalmatian Olive Oil has a complex nose, combining heart of artichoke, straw and dark chocolate bitterness, giving it perfect balance. This beautiful Extra Virgin Olive Oil is best served with roasted vegetable, seafood, salads, fresh cheeses or with grilled meats. For other cooking ideas, click on the "recipes" tab of DalmatianKitchen.com for several options. To your health (and taste buds)! Enjoy!!