Infusion

A process that involves the soaking or steeping of a substance in hot liquid to extract the flavor of the substance being imersed in the liquid. The liquid is infused with the flavor contained in the item being soaked in the liquid. Soaking tea leaves in hot water to extract the flavor of the tea is an example of Infusion. Infusers, which are referred to as Infusion baskets, Infusion balls or Tea Balls are available to hold the loose contents such as tea leaves, allowing water to pass over the leaves so the flavor goes into the liquid while the leaves are kept separate. Infusions can become ingredients for seasoning and flavoring foods such as oil Infusions, or adding an aroma to soap and for some bug bites or small skin discomforts, such as herbal Infusions. When Infusions are made with oil to flavor foods, always be sure to use a high quality oil but be aware that oil Infusions, particularly those that are homemade, are susceptible to botulism. Therefore, if oil Infusions are homemade, make sure they are fresh for the food preparation and then stored no longer than 5 days.