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Introduction
There’s a little-known culinary trick that top hotel chefs swear by to elevate their dishes. This one technique, though simple, makes a world of difference in flavor, texture, and the overall guest experience. But here's the catch—this technique is a closely guarded secret, one that guests should never learn. Wondering what it is? Let’s just say it’s not about expensive ingredients or complex methods—sometimes, it’s the simplest things that make the biggest impact!
Ingredients:
1 tablespoon of butter (unsalted)
2 tablespoons of olive oil (extra virgin)
A pinch of sea salt (preferably Himalayan pink salt)
Fresh herbs of choice (such as thyme, rosemary, or basil)
Directions:
Start with the base: Begin by combining the butter and olive oil in a saucepan. The combination of these two ingredients is key, as butter adds richness, while olive oil brings a smooth, fruity essence.
Heat gently: Over medium heat, warm the butter and olive oil together. Keep an eye on it so the butter doesn’t burn. The goal here is to allow the oils to meld together into a velvety base.
Add herbs for depth: Once the oils have melted and combined, drop in your fresh herbs. The secret here is to let the herbs infuse the oil for about 5 minutes. They should soften and begin to release their natural oils and aroma, creating a fragrant, herb-infused base.
Finish with salt: Before removing the mixture from heat, add a pinch of sea salt. The salt enhances the flavor, bringing out the subtle richness of the oils and the depth of the herbs.
Serve or store: Once ready, the mixture can be drizzled over roasted vegetables, used as a sauce for meats, or simply served as a bread dipper. It’s a game-changer in simple dishes.
Presentation and Storage Tips:
Presentation: Serve the oil in a small dish with a sprig of fresh herbs placed inside. A shallow, rustic bowl works wonders for a touch of elegance.
Storage: If you happen to have leftovers (though that’s unlikely!), store the oil in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week. The herbs will continue to infuse into the oil, making it even more aromatic with time.
Variations:
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