How spicy is Il Bottaccio 666?
About 7.5/10. Il Bottaccio 666 is distinctly spicy but not super hot. This is not a mild herb oil, but a chili oil for people who like to add some extra heat to their dish. Start with a few drops and add more if you want more heat.
What do you use this spicy oil for?
For pizza, pasta, soup, grilled vegetables, eggs, meat, fish, mayonnaise, sauces, and dips. It works particularly well as a finishing touch: just before serving or directly on your plate.
How is this chili oil made?
Il Bottaccio makes its own concentrated chili pepper oil and blends it with their own extra virgin olive oil. According to Il Bottaccio, 666 consists of extra virgin olive oil and 3% essential chili pepper oil. So it is a spicy condiment based on extra virgin olive oil.
Are the chili peppers pressed with the olives?
No. That used to be done, but Il Bottaccio now makes its own concentrated chili pepper oil and blends it with their own extra virgin olive oil. This gives the oil its direct chili heat, without it being a co-pressed pepper oil.
Is this regular extra virgin olive oil?
No. The base is extra virgin olive oil, but due to the addition of chili pepper, this product is officially a condiment based on extra virgin olive oil. So you use it as a spicy oil to give dishes extra flavor and warmth.
Is this the same as hot sauce?
No. Hot sauce is usually based on pepper, vinegar, and salt. Il Bottaccio 666 is a spicy oil based on extra virgin olive oil. This makes it a good match for Italian dishes such as pizza, pasta, soup, and grilled vegetables.
Can you cook with this chili oil?
Yes, you can. The spiciness does not disappear immediately when heated. However, Il Bottaccio 666 is best enjoyed when added after preparation or at the very end. This way, the chili aromas remain more distinct and you can better control the sharpness.
Is this oil suitable for pizza?
Yes. Pizza is perhaps the most logical application. A few drops after baking immediately add spice, without having to make the whole pizza sharp.
Can I use this oil in sauces or dips?
Yes. For example, mix it with mayonnaise, yogurt, tomato sauce, or a simple dip. This way you can quickly make a spicy sauce without having to use separate chili peppers.
I can make chili oil myself, can't I?
You can, but with fresh ingredients in oil, you need to be careful with food safety and storage. Chili in oil, just like garlic in oil, carries a small risk of botulism, and you don't want that. Il Bottaccio 666 is a ready-to-use Italian oil condiment based on extra virgin olive oil, with clear ingredients and shelf life.
How do you store this chili oil?
Store the bottle in a cool, dark place, tightly closed and out of direct sunlight. It's best not to put it next to the stove, as heat and light are bad for oil.
