Tastemakers: Olivado Avocado Oil/Crooked Tree I. P. A.

June 20, 2007

Olivado Avocado Oil

For most of us, avocados are enjoyed as the essential ingredient in guacamole. Originally from Mexico, the Aztecs used avocado oil as a skin moisturizer and softener and would consume the green fruit to enhance fertility. An over supply of avocados forced the industry to look at value-added products and the avocado found its way into cosmetics and several recipes; it is loaded with vitamins and has more potassium than bananas.
While Mexico and California are the largest producers, New Zealand has recently become a player in the marketplace. Challenged by overproduction in recent years some crafty farmers developed avocado oil using the same process as olive oil. Hiring the top Italian master oil makers, Olivado Avocado Oil has exploded onto the marketplace and has quickly become a favorite with chefs.
One of the biggest advantages of avocado oil versus olive oil is the smoke point. When oil begins to “smoke,” it starts to break down and releases unpleasant odors that are absorbed by the food. Olivado Avocado Oil has a smoke point of 520 F, while most olive oils come in around 380 F. So, when searing meat or at your next sautéing adventure, consider using Olivado Avocado Oil. While flavorful, avocado oil enhances food flavors versus masking them as other oils often do. Use as a dressing in salads or substitute for butter on potatoes and vegetables. Try a comparative tasting with your favorite olive oil for dipping breads. Look for Olivado Avocado Oil at your favorite specialty shop or grocer; additional info at olivado.com.


Crooked Tree I.P.A
Michigan brewmasters have a lot in common with their winemaking colleagues in this state. Both industries are making national news, and reviews from critics have been positive. Both Michigan wineries and craft breweries are winning tons of medals at competitions and the future looks bright for both. One commonality comes in their expressionistic approach. Instead of trying to duplicate California wine styles or West Coast beer styles, Michigan brewmasters and winemakers are interpretive and innovative and are putting a “Michigan” name to Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, Pinot Grigio, Riesling and other vinefera.
The same can be said with stouts, porters and pale ales. A great example of this “Michigan style” is the Dark Horse Crooked Tree I.P.A that, as the brewmaster says, is “West Coast inspired but brewed with Michigan style.” This is a “down and dirty” I.P.A. as it pours a cloudy orange/copper and remains hazy. There is a Michigan pine presence and plenty of citrus flavors.
The brewmasters every so often get a hankering for kicking it up a notch and make a Double Crooked Tree I.P.A. that is a true, meaning that the each ingredient is doubled (some beers promote “Double” on the label for marketing purposes) creating a double-wide full bodied brew. Both beers are available on tap and in the bottle so seek them out at your favorite beer shop or pub, I recently enjoyed a pint at Union Street Station. Pair with BBQ chicken or shish kabobs.