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Arbequina oil: characteristics, properties and uses

Arbequina olive oil is a light olive oil, softer and sweeter compared to other olive oil varieties. It has an intense fruity smell, its colour is deep green and it is very pleasant, with hints of dried fruit aromas and, in some cases, ripe fruit. 

Arbequina olive oil has its origins in Catalonia, and was first known thanks to the Duke of Medinaceli in the 17th century, who lived in Castell d'Arbeca, hence its name. Arbequina olive oil is becoming more and more widespread throughout Spain, especially in Andalusia, and has become one of the most internationally appreciated varieties of extra virgin olive oil, mainly because it is a softer and sweeter oil, ideal for those palates less accustomed to the consumption of EVOO and who are looking for oils with less pungency and bitterness. 

Arbequina olive oil is made from smaller olives, but with a high yield. It is one of the most expressive and unique extra virgin olive oils that we can find on the market and it is one of the most suitable oils for the most select and refined dishes, as well as one of the most select products of Spanish gastronomy and one of the great treasures of the Mediterranean diet.

aceituna arbequina

Aceituna arbequina
 

We love it and here we are going to tell you what Arbequina oil is used for, what its characteristics are and what properties it has. If you haven't tried it, take note because this is of interest to you. 

Characteristics of Arbequina oil

One of the main characteristics of Arbequina oil is its sweet and smooth flavour, which makes it very different from other varieties such as Picual, whose flavour is more bitter and intense. Because of its polished flavour, it is one of the most recommended for consumption by children. 

It has a pleasant and intense fruity smell that makes it very tempting and delicate, with notes of dried fruit and, in some cases, ripe fruit. All this with a striking intense green colour that makes it irresistible even before tasting it and a dense and fluid texture. 

As it is more complex than other varieties, extra virgin olive oil needs a higher level of protection in order to keep intact its excellent properties, which we are going to see below. 

Properties of Arbequina oil

One of the main properties of Arbequina oil is that it has a high percentage of oleic acid, which means that it is a very effective oil not only for reducing what is commonly known as bad cholesterol (LDL), but also for increasing the levels of good cholesterol (HDL). 

Arbequina oil contributes to the proper functioning of the organism, favouring the transport and absorption of vitamins and minerals, and improving intestinal transit. 

It is also a very beneficial oil for people with diabetes, helping to reduce insulin levels, as well as for people who are overweight. 

On the other hand, as the Spanish Heart Foundation assures us, Arbequina olive oil has a high protective power against cardiovascular diseases, reducing the chances of suffering a cardiovascular accident or stroke by 30%. 

In addition to this, it helps to strengthen bones, and is especially recommended for both children and the elderly, as it helps to keep them younger and healthier thanks to its high amount of polyphenols, vitamins and carotenes. 

Uses of Arbequina oil in the kitchen

Due to its percentage of saturated, polyunsaturated and monounsaturated fatty acids, Arbequina EVOO is better than other oils for cooking, standing out for its great stability and its high resistance to high temperatures. 

It is one of the most versatile oils for cooking. Due to its sweet and mild character, the uses of Arbequina oil are very varied, being one of the preferred oils for light dishes and for people who are not introduced to EVOO and are looking for milder flavours.
One of the main uses of Arbequina extra virgin olive oil is to make mayonnaise, as well as creams, salad dressings and, of course, raw. 

The Arbequina variety olive oil is also widely used in confectionery, being an excellent substitute for butter, as it provides a very special touch of sweetness without detracting from the rest of the ingredients. 

It is an oil that is increasingly in demand both in Spain and abroad, and at Olivarte we have the best brands of Arbequina extra virgin olive oil, and you can choose from a wide variety of oils of the highest quality that will not leave you indifferent and will be able to conquer the most refined palates. 

Where to buy Arbequina olive oil? 
If you are thinking of buying Arbequina olive oil, in Olivarte, online olive oil shop, you can find the best ones by clicking here.

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