What is it?
Finca La Torre extra virgin olive oil (€23.50/500ml)
What’s good about it?
This organic and biodynamic olive oil, produced near Malaga in Spain, scored 100/100 in the 2024 edition of Flos Olei, a guide to the best olive oil in the world.
Tell me more about it?
The olives, grown on a single estate, are of the Hojiblanca variety and the oil is obtained by means of cold press extraction that doesn’t compromise the quality. It is imported into Ireland by Sarah Merrigan, whose company, Sarah & Olive, is based in Dublin. Merrigan’s tasting notes say this oil has notes of apple, banana skin, green almond, rocket, artichoke, black pepper and chicory. She suggests using it with fish, pasta, salads and drizzled on soups. It will elevate budget friendly January dishes made with pulses and legumes, and make roasted vegetables a real treat.
How do I use it?
This is definitely a finishing oil, for dipping, drizzling and seasoning, rather than something you would use to roast potatoes.
Mark Moriarty’s Spanish recipe for lamb shoulder with patatas bravas
Mark Moriarty’s Spanish recipe for black pudding croquettes with red pepper aioli
Mark Moriarty’s movie night recipe for loaded home-made hot dogs with crème fraîche and jalapeño
Mark Moriarty’s movie night recipe for loaded nachos with chilli beef and Parmesan
Where can I get it?
It is available online from sarahandolive.com, and also from a selection of delis and specialist food stores, a list of which is available on the website.
Anything else?
It makes a lovely gift, much more original than a bottle of wine and comes in an attractive presentation box.
Send your Shelf Help product suggestions to marieclaire.digby@irishtimes.com
