Essential oils

Essential oils are concentrated liquids extracted from aromatic plants, flowers, leaves, barks, roots, or fruits through processes such as steam distillation or cold pressing. These oils contain aromatic compounds that capture the scent and characteristic properties of the source plant.

The use of essential oils has ancient roots in various cultures around the world, especially in traditional medicine and perfumery. In cooking, although their use is more limited and cautious, they are employed to impart intense aromas and flavors to dishes, especially in pastry, beverages, and culinary preparations where the goal is to enhance natural ingredients.

Properties: In addition to their potent aroma, essential oils possess antimicrobial and antioxidant properties, which can help preserve some foods or improve fresh and natural flavor profiles. However, it is crucial to use them in very small quantities due to their high concentration and potency, and to always ensure they are suitable for food consumption.

In different Spanish-speaking countries, essential oils are also known as essences, aromatic extracts, or simply essentials, terms that vary depending on the context and the culinary or therapeutic intention.