This Easy Homemade Garlic Confit is a delightful treat! It’s made by slowly cooking garlic in olive oil until it’s soft and sweet, making it perfect for spreading or adding to dishes.
I love using it on toast or mixing it into pasta for a delicious flavor boost. Plus, the smell while it’s cooking is enough to make anyone hungry! 🧄🥖
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Garlic Cloves: Fresh garlic is key for this recipe, but if you’re in a pinch, you can use pre-peeled garlic from the store. Just note that fresh cloves yield the best flavor and texture.
Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil is my favorite choice because it adds a rich flavor. If you need a substitution, avocado oil or canola oil works, but they may alter the taste slightly.
Fresh Herbs: Adding thyme or rosemary enhances the flavor. If you don’t have fresh herbs, dried herbs can be a backup, but use them sparingly as their flavor is more concentrated.
Salt: Salt is optional here, but it does enhance the taste. You can also skip it or use a salt substitute based on dietary needs.
How Do You Ensure the Garlic Cooks Perfectly?
Cooking garlic confit requires patience. The goal is to make the garlic soft, not crispy. Here are some tips:
- Keep the heat very low. If the oil starts bubbling too much, reduce the heat immediately.
- Use a timer! Cooking for about 45 minutes helps to reach the perfect tenderness.
- Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking but be gentle—too much stirring can break the cloves.
- Let the confit cool in the oil to allow the flavors to meld even more.
With these tips, you’ll have a delicious garlic confit that’s perfect for spreading, cooking, or adding to your favorite dishes!
Easy Homemade Garlic Confit
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 cups peeled garlic cloves (about 3 large heads)
- 2 cups olive oil (enough to fully submerge the garlic)
- Optional: 1-2 sprigs fresh thyme or rosemary for flavor
- Optional: 1/2 teaspoon salt
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 10 minutes to prepare and then around 45 minutes to 1 hour for the garlic to cook. After cooking, let it cool for a bit before storing. It’s a simple process, and the end result is absolutely worth the time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Garlic:
Start by peeling the garlic cloves. You can use the flat side of a knife to press down lightly on the cloves, which makes them easier to peel. Once they’re all peeled, set them aside.
2. Combine Ingredients:
In a small saucepan or pot, add the peeled garlic cloves. Pour in the olive oil until the garlic is fully submerged. If you’re using it, add the fresh thyme or rosemary sprigs and the salt now.
3. Heat Gently:
Place the saucepan on the stove over very low heat. This is crucial! You want the oil to gently simmer, but not bubble too vigorously. The goal is to cook the garlic slowly to get that beautiful, soft texture.
4. Slow Cooking:
Let the garlic cook for about 45 minutes to 1 hour. You’ll know it’s ready when the cloves are tender, soft, and lightly golden. During cooking, check occasionally to make sure the oil isn’t boiling too much.
5. Cool and Store:
Once the garlic is cooked, remove it from the heat and let it cool in the oil for about 10-15 minutes. This helps the flavors deepen. Then, carefully transfer the garlic and oil into a clean, airtight jar for storage.
6. Enjoy Your Garlic Confit:
Your garlic confit will last in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks. Use the soft, sweet garlic cloves spread on crusty bread, mixed into sauces, or added to various dishes. The flavorful garlic oil can be used for cooking or drizzling over your meals.
Enjoy your sweet, mellow garlic confit! It’s as versatile as it is delicious!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about Garlic Confit
Can I Use Raw Garlic Instead of Peeled Cloves?
It’s best to use peeled garlic cloves for this recipe. If you only have whole garlic bulbs, you’ll need to peel the cloves first before cooking them down. This ensures even cooking and prevents burning.
What Should I Do If My Garlic Starts to Brown Too Quickly?
If your garlic is browning too fast, reduce the heat immediately. The key to garlic confit is cooking it gently over low heat. If it does brown, you might want to start a new batch as overly browned garlic can develop a bitter taste.
Can I Store Garlic Confit at Room Temperature?
No, it’s important to store garlic confit in the refrigerator to prevent the growth of harmful bacteria. It will stay fresh for up to 2 weeks if stored properly in an airtight container.
How Can I Use Garlic Confit in My Cooking?
Garlic confit can be used in various ways! You can spread it on toast, mix it into pasta, add it to sauces, or even use the flavored oil for sautéing vegetables or drizzling over salads. The possibilities are endless!