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Garlic Confit

Garlic confit is a cooking technique where garlic cloves are gently cooked in olive oil until soft and golden, creating a versatile ingredient that enhances everyday meals.
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 2 hours
Total Time 2 hours 30 minutes
Servings: 10 servings
Course: Appetizer, Condiment
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Calories: 200

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 2 cups fresh garlic cloves Provides the essential flavor, sweetened and softened by the cooking process.
  • 2 cups olive oil Acts as the cooking medium, infusing the garlic with richness.
Herbs and Spices
  • 2 sprigs fresh thyme Adds a fragrant herbal note that complements the garlic.
  • 1 sprig fresh rosemary Enhances the flavor profile with a woody, aromatic essence.
  • 1 whole bay leaf Infuses an herbal depth with its mildly aromatic presence.
  • 1 teaspoon black peppercorns Offers a subtle heat that balances the flavors.
  • 1 teaspoon red chili flakes Introduces a hint of spice for complexity.
  • 1 teaspoon salt Enhances all the flavors and balances the dish.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat the oven to 250°F.
  2. Separate the cloves from the heads of garlic and peel them.
  3. Place the peeled garlic cloves in an oven-safe dish in a single layer.
Cooking
  1. Pour enough olive oil over the garlic cloves to completely submerge them.
  2. Nestle the thyme, rosemary, bay leaf, peppercorns, red chili flakes, and salt and pepper into the oil.
  3. Bake in the preheated oven for about 2 hours, or until the cloves are soft and lightly golden.
Storage
  1. Allow the garlic and oil to cool completely.
  2. Transfer to a clean jar, ensuring cloves are submerged in oil.
  3. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 weeks.

Notes

Use fresh garlic for best results. The infused oil can also be used in cooking or salad dressings. This recipe is ideal for meal prep and can be frozen in ice cube trays for easy portioning.