Description
Garlic confit is a slow-cooked infusion of garlic cloves and oil that transforms ordinary dishes with its sweet, mellow flavor. This French condiment enhances pasta, roasted vegetables, meats, and more with its rich, aromatic profile.
Ingredients
Scale
Garlic Confit Ingredients
- 2 cups extra-virgin olive oil or preferred fat like avocado oil
- Fresh garlic cloves, peeled (approximately 20-30 cloves)
- Fresh thyme and rosemary (a few sprigs each)
- 2 bay leaves
- 1 tsp peppercorns
- Optional: red pepper flakes or dried chiles for heat (to taste)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 250°F (120°C) to prepare for a low and slow cooking process that gently softens the garlic without browning it.
- Prepare Garlic and Herbs: Place the peeled garlic cloves in an ovenproof saucepan or a small baking dish. Submerge the garlic completely in the olive oil, then add fresh thyme, rosemary sprigs, bay leaves, and peppercorns. Optionally, include red pepper flakes or dried chiles if you desire a spicy note.
- Bake Slowly: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 2 to 2.5 hours. Check occasionally to ensure the garlic becomes soft and tender but does not fall apart or brown.
- Cool and Store: Remove the dish from the oven and let the garlic and oil cool to room temperature. Transfer the garlic cloves along with the infused oil into a clean, sterilized glass jar for storage.
- Refrigerate and Use: Store the jarred garlic confit in the refrigerator and consume within 2 to 3 weeks. Use as a seasoning or condiment to enhance various dishes.
Notes
- Use a clean jar to avoid contamination and extend shelf life.
- Adjust the cooking time if garlic starts to brown; it should be soft and mellow, not crispy.
- The infused oil is excellent for drizzling over dishes but do not cook with leftover oil to prevent burning the delicate flavors.
- Consume within 2-3 weeks for best flavor and safety.
- Can also be made with other mild oils such as avocado oil to alter flavor and texture.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 2 hours 30 minutes
- Category: Seasoning/Condiment, Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: French
Keywords: Garlic Confit, Garlic Infused Oil, French Condiment, Slow Cooked Garlic, Olive Oil Garlic, Seasoning, Side Dish
