The green gold of the Mediterranean: Everything you need to know about extra virgin olive oil from the Tunisian Sahel

If there is one treasure that embodies all the generosity and know-how of the Mediterranean basin, it is the extra virgin olive oil from the Tunisian Sahel. Bordered by the sea and bathed in sunshine for much of the year, this coastal region of Tunisia is the cradle of a thousand-year-old olive-growing tradition.

From tree to bottle, discover the secrets of this exceptional oil with its unique aromas and invaluable virtues.

A unique terroir and an iconic variety: The Chemlali

The Tunisian Sahel (stretching from Sousse to Mahdia, passing through Monastir) enjoys a maritime microclimate ideal for the development of olive trees. The sandy soils and mild climate allow for the cultivation of mainly the Chemlali variety, the undisputed queen of the region's olive trees.

This small, highly resistant olive yields a balanced oil, characterized by:

• A mild and delicate fruitiness with notes of fresh almond and cut grass.

• A low bitterness, which makes it particularly smooth and pleasant on the palate.

• A golden color with green hues, reflecting the Mediterranean sun.

Preserved artisanal know-how

The quality of an extra virgin olive oil depends on respect for ancestral practices:

1. Respectful harvesting: The olives are harvested by hand or using traditional tools in order to preserve the integrity of the fruit and avoid oxidation.

2. Cold extraction: The olives are pressed or cold-centrifuged in the hours following picking (at a temperature below 27°C). This mechanical process guarantees the optimal preservation of nutrients and aromas without any chemical treatment.

3. Impeccable purity: To be classified as extra virgin, the oil must have an extremely low acidity level (less than 0.8%) and a flawless organoleptic profile.

The benefits of a pillar of the Mediterranean diet

Renowned for being one of the secrets of longevity for Mediterranean peoples, extra virgin olive oil from the Sahel is bursting with benefits:

• Rich in monounsaturated fatty acids (Omega-9): Helps regulate cholesterol levels and protects the cardiovascular system.

• Powerful source of antioxidants: Packed with vitamin E and polyphenols, it fights against cellular aging.

• Easy to digest: It stimulates digestion and contributes to the proper functioning of the body.

How to taste and enhance it in your cooking?

Thanks to its natural sweetness and subtle fruitiness, Tunisian Sahel olive oil is extremely versatile:

• As a raw seasoning: A drizzle of oil on a fresh tomato salad, a carpaccio, or simply poured over a slice of warm artisanal bread with a pinch of fleur de sel.

• For your cooked dishes: Ideal for enhancing grilled fish, elevating a vegetable stew, or accompanying traditional Mediterranean dishes.

• As a final touch: Add a dash of oil when serving over hummus, a hot soup, or oven-roasted vegetables.

Storage advice

To preserve all its taste and nutritional qualities:

• Store your bottle away from light and heat (in a cool cupboard).

• Preferably choose a container made of tinted glass or an amber metal can.

• Be sure to close the bottle tightly after each use to prevent oxidation from air.