This easy garlic confit is a game changer! It’s simply garlic cloves slowly cooked in oil until they’re tender and sweet, adding a rich flavor boost to any dish.
I’m a big fan of spreading this on toast or mixing it into pasta. It’s like a secret ingredient that makes everything taste amazing. Trust me, you’ll want to have a jar handy!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Garlic: Fresh garlic is essential here. I recommend using larger heads of garlic as they yield more cloves. If you’re short on fresh garlic, you might use pre-peeled garlic for convenience, but the flavor may not be as rich.
Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil is my go-to because it adds a wonderful flavor. If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use a mix of olive oil and another oil like sunflower or canola oil. Just remember that the flavor will change slightly.
Herbs: Fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary add a delightful touch. If you don’t have those, dried herbs can work too, but use them sparingly. You could also skip the herbs altogether if you prefer pure garlic flavor!
How Can I Ensure My Garlic Confit Turns Out Perfectly?
The key to perfect garlic confit is to cook the garlic gently. High heat can cause the garlic to brown, which isn’t what we want. Once your oven is set to a low temperature (250°F), check on it during the cooking time to make sure it doesn’t exceed tender and golden.
- Start by peeling the garlic cloves carefully; this keeps them intact for even cooking.
- Make sure the garlic is fully submerged in oil, as this prevents it from burning.
- If using herbs or peppercorns, add those for an extra layer of flavor, but remember they’re optional.
- Allow the confit to cool completely before storing it to avoid moisture buildup in the jar.
Using garlic confit is easy—spread it on bread, mix it in sauces, or even use the oil in other recipes for a burst of garlic goodness!
Easy Garlic Confit
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 heads of garlic, peeled into individual cloves
- 2 cups extra virgin olive oil (enough to fully submerge the garlic cloves)
- Optional: 1-2 sprigs fresh thyme or rosemary (for subtle herb flavor)
- Optional: 1 teaspoon whole black peppercorns
How Much Time Will You Need?
You’ll need about 10 minutes for preparation and then 1 hour to 1 hour 15 minutes for the garlic to cook in the oven. After cooking, let it cool to room temperature before storing. The total time is around 1 hour and 30 minutes, but most of that is hands-off time while the garlic is gently roasting. Perfect for a simple and delicious addition to your recipes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 250°F (120°C). This low and slow cooking method will give you beautifully tender garlic without browning it.
2. Prepare the Garlic:
Carefully peel the garlic cloves, making sure they stay whole. You can use the side of a knife to lightly smash the garlic bulb, which helps in peeling off the skins easily.
3. Arrange in Dish:
Place the peeled garlic cloves in a small oven-safe dish or a baking dish. Make sure there’s enough room for all the cloves to sit comfortably.
4. Add Olive Oil:
Pour the extra virgin olive oil over the garlic cloves until they’re completely submerged. This will help them cook evenly and impart wonderful flavors.
5. Add Optional Ingredients:
If you wish to add extra flavor, toss in the sprigs of thyme or rosemary and the black peppercorns. This step is optional, so feel free to skip it if you prefer just the pure garlic flavor!
6. Cover and Cook:
Tightly cover the dish with aluminum foil or a lid. Place it in the warm oven and let it cook gently for about 1 hour to 1 hour 15 minutes. Check for tenderness; the garlic should be soft and lightly golden.
7. Cool and Store:
Once the garlic is done, remember to take it out of the oven and let it cool completely to room temperature. Transfer the garlic confit and oil into a clean jar, making sure to include all the oil.
8. Use and Enjoy:
Store your garlic confit in the refrigerator, and it will last for up to 2 weeks. Use this flavorful oil in your cooking, add it to pasta, or spread the soft, roasted garlic on toast. It’s a delicious way to infuse your dishes with rich garlic flavor!
Enjoy your rich, tender, and flavorful garlic confit that will elevate countless recipes!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about Easy Garlic Confit
Can I Use Store-Bought Peeled Garlic for This Recipe?
Yes, you can! Store-bought peeled garlic is a convenient option and can save you time. Just keep in mind that the flavor may not be as robust as fresh garlic cloves.
How Should I Store Garlic Confit?
Store your garlic confit in a clean, airtight jar in the refrigerator. It should stay fresh for up to 2 weeks. The oil may solidify when cold; simply warm it gently to return to liquid form before use.
Can I Freeze Garlic Confit?
Absolutely! Garlic confit can be frozen for longer storage. Place it in an airtight container or freezer-safe bag and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator or at room temperature before using.
What Can I Use Garlic Confit In?
The possibilities are endless! Use it to enhance pasta dishes, as a spread on toast, in salad dressings, or to add depth to roasted vegetables. The flavored oil can be drizzled over pizzas or used for sautéing!
