Garlic confit is a culinary delight that takes the humble garlic bulb and transforms it into a buttery, sweet spread that’s perfect for enhancing any dish. Imagine the rich, mellow flavor of slowly cooked garlic, ready to elevate your meals or serve as a tasty dip for bread.
Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a home cook looking for a simple yet impressive addition to your kitchen, this garlic confit recipe is a must-try. It’s incredibly versatile, allowing you to use it in pasta, on toast, or even in dressings for salads.
Get ready to impress your friends and family with this easy and rewarding process that brings out the best in garlic. It’s time to unlock the potential of this beloved ingredient!
What is Garlic Confit?
Garlic confit transforms ordinary garlic into a luxurious ingredient, offering a smooth, buttery flavor that’s simply irresistible.
This method involves gently simmering garlic cloves in olive oil until they become tender and golden. The result is a sweet spread that enhances a variety of dishes.
Perfect for toast, pasta, or even salad dressings, garlic confit brings a delightful twist to your culinary creations.
Why You Should Make Garlic Confit
Creating garlic confit at home is an easy process that yields delicious results. The slow cooking method allows the flavors to develop fully, resulting in a rich and aromatic oil.
Not only does it serve as a fantastic condiment, but the garlic oil can also be utilized for sautéing or drizzling over vegetables, adding depth to your meals.
This confit makes for an exceptional dip when paired with crusty bread, making it an excellent appetizer for gatherings or a cozy night in.
Ingredients for Garlic Confit
To prepare your garlic confit, you’ll need just a few ingredients, most of which you may already have in your kitchen.
The essential components are peeled garlic cloves and olive oil. Optional herbs like thyme can add an extra layer of flavor, while salt and pepper enhance the overall taste.
This simplicity makes garlic confit an accessible recipe for cooks of all levels, inviting creativity with each batch.
How to Make Garlic Confit
The process begins with peeling the garlic cloves, ensuring they are clean and dry. Then, combine the garlic with olive oil and seasonings in a small saucepan.
Cooking on low heat for about 45 minutes to an hour allows the garlic to soften and take on a lovely golden hue. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
Once done, let it cool before transferring to a jar, ensuring the garlic remains submerged in the oil for preservation.
Storing and Using Garlic Confit
Garlic confit can be stored in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. This makes it a convenient addition to your meal prep, ready to enhance your dishes at a moment’s notice.
Use the infused oil for cooking, drizzling over roasted vegetables, or as a base for dressings. The garlic cloves themselves can be spread on bread or incorporated into sauces, providing a burst of flavor.
With such versatility, garlic confit will quickly become a staple in your kitchen, ready to elevate your everyday meals.
Pairing Suggestions
Garlic confit pairs wonderfully with crusty bread, making it a go-to for appetizers or snacks. Simply spread the tender garlic on the bread for a delightful bite.
For a more substantial meal, consider adding garlic confit to pasta dishes, where its rich flavor can shine through. It can also be a delicious addition to roasted meats or vegetables.
Experiment with different pairings to discover your favorite ways to use this luscious condiment, bringing warmth and richness to every meal.
Easy Garlic Confit Recipe
This garlic confit is a luscious blend of sweet, tender garlic cloves simmered in olive oil until golden and soft. The resulting oil is infused with garlic flavor, making it a perfect addition to various dishes.
Ingredients
- 2 cups peeled garlic cloves
- 1 cup olive oil
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Prep the Garlic: Peel the garlic cloves, ensuring they are clean and dry.
- Combine Ingredients: In a small saucepan, combine the peeled garlic cloves, olive oil, thyme (if using), salt, and pepper.
- Cook Slowly: Place the saucepan over low heat and cook for about 45 minutes to 1 hour, or until the garlic is golden and tender. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Cool and Store: Once cooked, remove the saucepan from heat and let it cool. Transfer the garlic and oil into a clean jar. Make sure the garlic is submerged in oil to preserve it.
- Refrigerate: Store the garlic confit in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks. Use the oil for cooking or drizzling, and enjoy the garlic as a spread or flavor enhancer!
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Servings: 16 servings (1 tablespoon each)
- Calories: 90kcal
- Fat: 10g
- Protein: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 1g