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Writer's pictureA Glass in Hand

Does adding fat really make things better?

Updated: Apr 20, 2020

The simple answer to that question is YES


Fat is the answer to most questions in the cooking world. From why your baking tastes so good to why the pasta is so shiny and luxurious looking. Fat is important because it gives your food flavour and often helps it look more presentable.


Most times in restaurant kitchens we heavily salt and we heavily use fats. It could be oils, butters or dairy products. Without the use of these things you would have a pretty bland meal. So don't be surprised if I fire off a recipe and tell you to finish it with butter.

Asparagus, Butter


Fats like oils, butter, and dairy products are flavour to a dish. It enhances the dish and creates a luxurious texture. I'm sure most of you have Netflix. Maybe you have seen a show on there called Salt, Fat, Acid, Heat. If you haven't, I strongly recommend you watch it next time you're looking for something new.


In her show, Samin Nosrat goes into detail about how these things all balance out a dish. Fat is super important in cooking. It is the basis to many dishes and why things taste so good .


When I cook, people ask me how much oil or butter I use. Sometimes I feel bad about telling them, especially if they watching their weight. People really are surprised to know that for a whole meal, making 5 or 6 different dishes I use a half a bottle of olive oil. Most of my friends are surprised and confused by my answer.


All fats are different and have different flavour profiles. Some are best to be added near the end to add certain nuttiness. Others may be used on raw dishes and do not require any heat. It all depends on what you are cooking.

Olive oil
There are many kinds of oils out there. Every one has different flavour profiles


If the flavour of the food is already strong, You don't want to use something that would clash with the flavour. Something that is plain is good with a strong flavoured oil or butter.

So my friends the next time you roast your vegetables, be liberal with your oil and don't be shy with the butter. Your food will taste so much more alive.



Salt, Fat, Acid, Heat -https://www.saltfatacidheat.com/

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