Understanding the Trend: Why Add Olive Oil to Coffee?
Adding olive oil to coffee is a trend that offers several potential benefits, primarily rooted in the health properties of high-quality extra virgin olive oil (EVOO). The healthy monounsaturated fats found in EVOO can help to slow down the absorption of caffeine, potentially mitigating the dreaded jitters and energy crashes associated with a quick caffeine hit. This can result in a more sustained, steady energy boost throughout the morning. Furthermore, EVOO is packed with antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds, which may contribute to heart health, brain function, and overall wellness. The oil also imparts a unique flavor and luxurious, creamy texture to your coffee, creating a different mouthfeel than traditional dairy creamers. However, the taste can be polarizing, and proper emulsification is key to avoiding an oily, separated brew.
How Much Olive Oil Should You Put in Your Coffee?
When starting, the amount of olive oil is crucial for both taste and texture. Too much can overpower the coffee and cause digestive upset, while too little may not provide the desired creaminess. The general recommendation is to begin with a small, conservative dose and adjust from there.
Starting with a Small Amount
For an 8-ounce (or 1 cup) serving of coffee, a good starting point is a half to one teaspoon of high-quality extra virgin olive oil. This modest amount allows you to get a sense of the flavor profile and texture without it being overwhelming. Using a blender or a handheld frother is essential to properly emulsify the oil and coffee, creating a smooth, latte-like texture. Simply stirring by hand will cause the oil to separate and float on top, which is unpleasant.
Increasing Your Dosage
After your first attempt, if you enjoy the flavor and want to increase the richness or boost the health benefits, you can gradually increase the amount of olive oil. Many experienced olive oil coffee drinkers use up to one tablespoon per 8 to 12 ounces of coffee. If you follow a ketogenic diet, some sources suggest up to two tablespoons daily, but it is important to pay attention to how your body responds. Always blend or froth thoroughly, and remember that higher doses of olive oil can add significant calories, so they should be accounted for in your daily intake.
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Olive Oil Coffee
Follow these steps to create a perfectly blended olive oil coffee at home.
Equipment Needed
- Brewed coffee (hot or cold)
- High-quality extra virgin olive oil (delicate or medium intensity recommended)
- Blender, immersion blender, or handheld frother
- Your favorite coffee mug or shaker jar
- Optional: Sweetener, spices, or milk alternative
The Blending Process
- Brew your coffee: Prepare your coffee using your preferred method (drip, espresso, French press, etc.).
- Add the oil: Pour your brewed coffee into the blender or mug and add your starting amount of olive oil (1/2 to 1 teaspoon).
- Emulsify: For hot coffee, blend for 30 seconds to a minute until the mixture is frothy and well combined. Use caution with hot liquids in a blender. For cold coffee, you can also use a shaker jar to vigorously shake the mixture until emulsified.
- Pour and enjoy: Pour the smooth, creamy coffee into your mug. Add any desired sweeteners or spices, like cinnamon or honey, to complement the flavor.
Olive Oil in Coffee vs. Bulletproof Coffee
Many people are familiar with Bulletproof Coffee, which uses butter and MCT oil. Here is a comparison of the two popular 'fatty coffee' trends.
| Feature | Olive Oil in Coffee | Bulletproof Coffee |
|---|---|---|
| Primary Fat Source | Extra virgin olive oil (EVOO), rich in monounsaturated fats. | Grass-fed butter and MCT oil, rich in saturated fats. |
| Flavor Profile | Depends on the olive oil. Can have fruity, buttery, nutty, or peppery notes. | Distinctly creamy and buttery due to the butter. |
| Texture | Velvety and smooth when properly emulsified. | Creamy, with a thicker mouthfeel. |
| Key Health Compounds | Polyphenols and antioxidants. | Primarily focused on ketogenic benefits and sustained energy. |
| Caffeine Absorption | Healthy fats slow absorption, providing a more sustained energy release. | Similar sustained energy due to added fats. |
| Origin | Inspired by Mediterranean culture. | Originated from the 'biohacking' community. |
Potential Health Benefits and Risks
The health claims associated with olive oil coffee are a key driver of its popularity. The combination of antioxidants from both coffee and EVOO may provide a powerful anti-inflammatory boost. The healthy fats can aid in weight management by promoting satiety and helping to stabilize blood sugar. However, there are potential downsides. The added calories from olive oil should be factored into your diet, and excessive amounts can cause digestive issues like diarrhea, especially for those with a sensitive stomach. Ultimately, moderation is key.
Creative Flavor Variations
Once you've mastered the basic olive oil coffee recipe, you can experiment with flavor combinations to suit your palate.
- Vanilla Olive Oil Latte: Blend a teaspoon of vanilla extract with your olive oil and coffee mixture.
- Spiced Olive Oil Coffee: Add a dash of cinnamon, nutmeg, or cardamom to your brewed coffee before blending.
- Maple Olive Oil Coffee: Sweeten your cup with a tablespoon of maple syrup for a richer, more complex flavor.
- Iced Olive Oil Coffee: Brew your coffee, add olive oil and other ingredients, and blend with ice for a refreshing cold brew.
Conclusion
Determining how much olive oil should you put in your coffee comes down to personal taste and tolerance, but starting with a small amount, such as half to one teaspoon, is the best approach. Using a high-quality extra virgin olive oil and a blender or frother is essential for achieving a creamy, well-emulsified beverage that avoids an oily residue. While the health benefits associated with the antioxidants and healthy fats are appealing, be mindful of the added calories and potential digestive effects of using larger quantities. Experiment with different oils and flavor additions to find your perfect cup. For more information on olive oil, explore resources from organizations like the North American Olive Oil Association.
What are the potential digestive risks of olive oil coffee?
As noted by dietitian Emma Shafqat, olive oil, especially in larger quantities, can trigger digestive discomfort or diarrhea, particularly for those with a sensitive digestive system. Coffee itself can also increase stomach acid production, and the combination can sometimes be irritating.
Can I use a different type of olive oil?
Yes, but for the best flavor and health benefits, high-quality extra virgin olive oil (EVOO) is recommended. Less robust oils are better for coffee, as a strong, peppery oil can easily overpower the flavor of your brew.
Does olive oil coffee taste oily?
No, if prepared correctly. The key is proper emulsification using a blender or frother. If you simply stir it in, the oil will separate and create an oily layer on top.
Can I make iced olive oil coffee?
Yes, but it is best to emulsify the oil with a smaller amount of hot coffee first to ensure a proper mix before adding ice. This prevents the oil from separating in the cold temperature.
Is olive oil coffee good for weight loss?
Some studies suggest that the combination of coffee and healthy fats can increase satiety and promote weight loss compared to other fats, but moderation is important. It should be part of a balanced diet and healthy lifestyle, not a magic solution.
Can I add milk or creamer to olive oil coffee?
Yes, you can add milk or a non-dairy creamer to your olive oil coffee. Blending the oil with the milk can help create a rich, creamy foam, similar to a latte.
How many calories does olive oil add to coffee?
One tablespoon of olive oil contains about 120 calories, so adding it to your daily coffee can increase your caloric intake. It's a trade-off for the added healthy fats and potential health benefits.
How does the type of coffee bean affect the taste?
Darker roasts and espresso tend to pair well with olive oil because their strong flavor can stand up to the oil's notes. Milder roasts may be more easily overpowered by the olive oil.
