Arbequina olive oil comes from small, reddish and somewhat purple fruits, depending on their ripeness. The Arbequina olive is an excellent table olive, but it also produces a delicious, sweet oil that is highly appreciated in gastronomy. In the green fruits, a more bitter and spicy fruitiness can be appreciated. Its conservation is somewhat more demanding than other varieties, as they oxidize much more quickly.
They are usually harvested later than Picual olives and their harvest lasts until January. The fat yield of Arbequina olive oil is very high, which makes this variety a very good crop despite the small size of the fruit. Another characteristic feature is that Arbequina olive oil is usually more yellowish than Picual, even if it is harvested early.
History of Arbequina olive oil
The variety is originally from Palestine and was introduced to Spain by the Duke of Medinaceli, Baron of Arbeca. The Duke lived in this Catalan town and this variety took its name from there. Although it is cultivated all over the world, the cultivation of Arbequina is really widespread in Catalonia and Aragon.
Due to the history of Arbequina olive oil, Castillo de Canena launched an irresistible blend of this variety and called it Duquesa de Medinaceli, featuring the coat of arms of this house.
Recipes and pairings with Arbequina olive oil
Arbequina olive oil generally has a mild flavour, making it ideal for enhancing other flavours without taking away their prominence.
- Raw sauces: especially in aioli, but Arbequina olive oil also has a lot to say in vinaigrettes, to which it will add freshness and a subtle counterpoint.
- Pastry: it stands out in sweet recipes such as flans, puddings or in this delicious recipe for king's cake that we suggested to you at the beginning of the month.
- Chocolate: In Les Garrigues, the region to which the town of Arbeca belongs, a very common snack is bread with oil and chocolate. A real gourmet treat!
Our Arbequina olive oils
Do you want to discover the best Arbequina olive oil? Don't hesitate, visit our section dedicated to this delicious olive that stubbornly shows us that size doesn't matter... but flavor does!
