5 Ways to Use Yuzu-Infused Olive Oil in Cooking

Yuzu-infused olive oil combines the smooth richness of olive oil with the tangy brightness of yuzu citrus, making it a versatile ingredient for both sweet and savory dishes. Here’s how you can use it:

• Salad Dressings: Create vibrant vinaigrettes with a 3:1 oil-to-acid ratio. Add Dijon mustard or honey for depth.
• Marinades: Tenderize and flavor meats, fish, or tofu. Pair with soy sauce for Asian-inspired dishes or fresh herbs for Mediterranean flair.
• Baked Goods: Replace butter to add moisture and a citrusy twist to cakes, cookies, or muffins.
• Finishing Touch: Drizzle over vegetables, soups, pasta, or rice for a fresh burst of flavor.
• Dipping Sauces: Mix with soy sauce, ginger, and garlic for a zesty dip perfect for dumplings or spring rolls.

This oil is a simple way to elevate your cooking with a citrusy punch. Let’s dive into these uses in more detail!

How to make a Yuzu Puree Vinaigrette

1. Make Simple Citrus Salad Dressings

Give your salads a fresh kick with yuzu-infused olive oil. Stick to the classic 3:1 ratio: three parts yuzu-infused olive oil to one part acid, like rice vinegar or lemon juice. This keeps the flavors balanced without overpowering your greens. For extra depth, toss in a teaspoon of Dijon mustard or some minced shallot.

Here’s a go-to yuzu vinaigrette recipe that complements a variety of salads:

Want to switch it up? Try these ideas:

• For a creamier dressing: Blend 1/4 cup Greek yogurt with 2 tablespoons of yuzu-infused olive oil and a splash of rice vinegar.
• Flavor boosters: Add fresh mint for fruit salads or cilantro for Asian-inspired dishes.
• Extra texture: Sprinkle in toasted sesame seeds or ground almonds.
• Adjust the taste: Sweeten with more honey or brighten with extra vinegar.

For the best flavor, let your dressing sit for about 15 minutes before serving. It’s a perfect match for bitter greens like arugula, Asian-style salads with cabbage and sesame seeds, or even salads with fruit.

2. Add to Meat and Fish Marinades

Yuzu oil isn't just for salads - it works wonders in marinades for proteins too. Its balanced acidity and citrusy notes make it an excellent base for infusing flavor into meats, fish, and even tofu. The same ingredients that bring salads to life, like garlic, ginger, and citrus, can transform proteins when used in a marinade.

Yuzu oil contains natural enzymes that help tenderize proteins while allowing the flavors to penetrate deeply. By tweaking a basic dressing recipe with additions like soy sauce (use 1 tablespoon per 1/4 cup of oil), you can create marinades that enhance the natural taste of your ingredients rather than mask them ^[5][6].

Suggested marinating times:

• Fish/seafood: 30-60 minutes (great for pan-searing or grilling)
• Chicken: 2-4 hours (ideal for grilling or baking)
• Tofu: 30 minutes to overnight (works well for pan-frying or baking)

For best results, set aside a portion of the marinade before adding the protein. You can use this reserved portion as a glaze during cooking.

Want to experiment with flavors? For an Asian twist, mix yuzu oil with soy sauce (1 tablespoon per 1/4 cup of oil). If you're aiming for a Mediterranean vibe, combine 3 tablespoons of yuzu oil with 2 tablespoons of fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary, 1 tablespoon of lemon juice, and a touch of garlic. These small adjustments can take your dishes to the next level.

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3. Use in Baked Goods

Yuzu oil isn't just for marinades - it can bring a bright, citrusy twist to baked goods too. Its tangy flavor and balanced acidity can elevate simple recipes, adding a refreshing depth to both sweet and savory treats. Plus, it helps keep baked goods moist, extending their freshness^[3][9].

When replacing butter, use a 3:4 ratio (3/4 cup of yuzu oil for every 1 cup of butter)^[3].

For sweet recipes, pair yuzu oil with vanilla or almond. For savory baked goods, it works well with herbs like rosemary or thyme^[4][9].

You can also use yuzu oil in glazes - mix it into powdered sugar or brush it over warm baked goods for an extra layer of flavor. If you're experimenting, try substituting 25-50% of the recipe's fat with yuzu oil, adjusting as needed to suit your taste^[3][4].

Pro tip: Yuzu oil’s lighter fat content makes it a better choice for dense cakes rather than delicate pastries^[9].

4. Drizzle on Finished Dishes

Yuzu oil isn't just for baking - it’s perfect as a finishing touch to bring a burst of citrus flavor to your dishes. A quick drizzle over hot food releases its fresh, vibrant aroma, instantly enhancing the dish.

Here’s a quick guide for how much to use:

It works beautifully with grilled vegetables like asparagus, Brussels sprouts, or roasted carrots, where the citrus flavor balances the caramelized edges. Even a simple pasta dish can feel elevated with just a light drizzle ^[1][2].

Pro tip: For better control and presentation, use a bottle with a narrow spout to create precise drizzles on soups or sauces ^[7].

Here are a few pairing ideas:

• Add a swirl of oil and fresh herbs to risotto.
• Drizzle lightly over miso-based soups.
• Finish steamed rice with a few drops and a sprinkle of sesame seeds ^[8].

For hot dishes, drizzle the oil just before serving to keep its aroma bright and fresh ^[5]. Its citrusy notes are at their peak right after drizzling but will start to blend with other flavors within 15-30 minutes ^[9].

5. Mix into Asian Dipping Sauces

Yuzu oil isn’t just for dressings and marinades - it’s a game-changer in Asian-inspired dipping sauces, combining the bold flavors of Japanese cuisine with a Mediterranean twist. Its bright citrus notes balance the savory depth of soy sauce beautifully.

Here’s a simple recipe to try:

Let the sauce sit for about 5 minutes before serving to let the flavors blend perfectly.

This dipping sauce works wonderfully with:

• Dumplings or potstickers
• Fresh spring rolls
• Tempura vegetables
• Grilled seafood
• Cold noodle dishes

Want to switch it up? Add a drizzle of sesame oil or a pinch of chili flakes for extra depth. You can even mix it with Greek yogurt and soy sauce for a creamy dip that pairs beautifully with sushi or chicken satay ^[1][2][6].

Conclusion

Yuzu-infused olive oil brings a bright citrus touch that works beautifully in a variety of dishes. Whether you're preparing savory meals or sweet treats, this oil complements flavors without taking over.

When choosing yuzu-infused olive oil, freshness is key. For example, Big Horn Olive Oil ensures quality by cold-pressing their extra virgin olive oil within just two hours of harvest. Their yuzu-infused version captures the true essence of yuzu while maintaining the high standards of premium olive oil.

This oil isn’t just about flavor - it packs a punch with three times the vitamin C of lemons^[6]. From salad dressings and marinades to baked goods and Asian-inspired sauces, it’s a versatile addition to any kitchen.

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