Cold-pressed almond oil is made by mechanically pressing almonds to extract their oil without using heat or chemicals. The YouTube video "Cold Press Almond Oil" highlights the benefit of using fresh ingredients in salad dressings, showcasing the value of high-quality oils like cold-pressed almond oil. Here's how it's made:
Steps to Making Cold Pressed Almond Oil
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Choose Quality Almonds:
- Start with high-quality, shelled almonds.
- Ensure they are fresh and free from damage or mold.
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Prepare the Almonds:
- Almonds do not require pre-treatment, but sometimes they are lightly dried.
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Use a Cold Press:
- The core of cold pressing is using a mechanical press designed for extracting oils.
- Place the almonds into the press according to the manufacturer's instructions.
- This machine applies pressure to the almonds, separating the oil from the solids.
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Pressing Process:
- The press slowly squeezes the almonds, releasing the oil.
- This process is done without heat, maintaining the oil's nutritional integrity and flavor.
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Collect the Oil:
- The extracted oil is collected in a clean container.
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Filtering
- Some producers choose to filter the oil to remove any leftover solid particles from the pressing.
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Storage:
- Store the finished cold-pressed almond oil in a dark glass bottle to prevent oxidation from light exposure.
- Keep it in a cool, dark place, like a pantry, to maintain its freshness and quality.
Why Cold Pressing?
- No Heat: Cold pressing avoids the use of heat, which helps preserve the natural flavor, aroma, and nutrients of the oil.
- No Chemicals: The extraction process is entirely mechanical, without using chemicals or solvents. This ensures the oil is pure and natural.
- High Quality: Cold-pressed oils are generally considered of higher quality and are preferred for cooking, skincare, and other applications.
- Beneficial Compounds: These oils also have a high presence of antioxidants, vitamins, and beneficial compounds.
Applications
- Salad Dressings: As mentioned in the video, cold-pressed almond oil enhances the flavor of fresh organic salad dressings.
- Baking: It can be used in baking for a natural and subtly nutty flavor.
- Skin Care: Almond oil is frequently used as a moisturizer for skincare due to its natural properties.
Making cold-pressed almond oil at home might require specialized equipment like an oil press. However, the essential principle is to extract oil using only pressure, with no heat. This ensures a high-quality, flavorful oil rich in nutrients and natural goodness.
