In the past few months I've started using essential oils. I have replaced all of the over the counter meds that I use to use on a regular basis (like antacids, ibuprofen and other pain relievers). I also use them for so many things in our home, like cleaning, adding them to water, using them for bug bites, etc. But tonight was my first experience cooking with them.
I should preface this with telling you that when you heat essential oils, they lose most (if not all) of their therapeutic benefits. That being said, if you're in a pinch and forget, hypothetically, basil for the sauce for your manicotti, hypothetically, then you can use the oils as a substitute! The flavor in essential oils is wonderful because it is a extremely concentrated.
I threw this manicotti recipe together using a few different things I found online. Then I realized I could use my Basil oil in it to heighten the flavor! (also I forgot to pick up fresh basil at the store... hypothetically.)
I started with putting the pasta on to cook, then mixed up the ricotta for the inside.
Then the sauce- I got tinned whole tomatoes instead of sauce. I was sure to get the ones imported from Italy because I wanted that great flavor! After I poured the tomatoes into a bowl, I cut the tomatoes coarsely with my kitchen shears. Then I added some salt, a pinch of sugar, and a pinch of nutmeg to the tomatoes.
I added a few drops of Basil oil to the tomatoes... then stirred it up! (I added slightly too much... I think one or two drops would be plenty for this recipe.)
[A note about oils: For this recipe I used Heritage Essential Oils. I am also a consultant for doTERRA oils. I love both brands. If you have questions about either, let me know!]
