If you have ever wished to elevate your cooking with a rich, mellow garlic flavor without the sharp bite of raw cloves, then this Garlic Confit Recipe is about to become your new best friend. This simple yet transformative technique gently cooks garlic cloves in olive oil until they become irresistibly soft and sweet, creating a versatile ingredient that will add depth and warmth to everything from pastas to roasted veggies. Trust me, once you make this Garlic Confit Recipe, you’ll find endless reasons to keep a jar stocked in your fridge.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering just a handful of essential ingredients, this Garlic Confit Recipe shines because each element plays an important role in flavor development, texture, and aroma. Let’s take a look at what you’ll need.
- 6 Bulbs garlic: The star of the dish, fresh garlic bulbs provide the sweet, mellow flavor once slow-cooked.
- 5 Sprigs Fresh Thyme: Adds an herbal, earthy note that complements the garlic beautifully.
- 1 Teaspoon Red Pepper Flakes: Offers a subtle kick and warming heat without overpowering the garlic.
- 1 Teaspoon Black Peppercorns: Infuses gentle spice and enhances complexity in the oil.
- 2 Cups Olive Oil: The cooking medium that slowly softens the garlic and carries all the infused flavors.
How to Make Garlic Confit Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Garlic
First things first, preheat your oven to 350℉ and place the rack in the center so the heat surrounds your garlic evenly. Then, trim about half an inch off the tops of each garlic bulb. This allows the oil to seep in and gently cook the cloves inside, unlocking their soft texture.
Step 2: Arrange Garlic and Aromatics
Pop the trimmed garlic bulbs cut side up into a 10-inch cast iron skillet. Scatter in fresh thyme sprigs, red pepper flakes, and black peppercorns. These aromatics will infuse the garlic with subtle herbal and spicy notes while it cooks.
Step 3: Pour Olive Oil and Cover
Pour the olive oil over the garlic and aromatics until everything is nicely submerged. Cover the skillet tightly with foil to trap the steam, helping the garlic cook slowly and evenly while soaking up maximum flavor.
Step 4: Roast and Broil for Color
Place the covered skillet in the oven and roast for 45 to 50 minutes, or until the garlic cloves are visibly soft. Once tender, remove the foil and switch your oven to high broil. Broil the garlic for 3 to 4 minutes until the tops develop a light golden brown hue. This step gives you that slightly caramelized depth that makes the Garlic Confit Recipe irresistible.
Step 5: Cool and Prepare for Storage
Take the skillet out and cool the garlic enough so you can handle it safely. You’ll want to lightly peel the garlic bulbs and gently squeeze the cloves out. Transfer them to a glass container like a mason jar for easy storage.
Step 6: Strain the Oil and Combine
Strain the infused oil to remove any garlic skins and aromatics. Pour the clear, fragrant oil over the garlic in the jar. If you have leftover oil, save it for cooking—it’s packed with garlic goodness!
Step 7: Ready to Use or Store
Your garlic confit is ready to enjoy immediately, or you can refrigerate the jar for up to two weeks. The slow-cooked cloves and oil will keep their flavor beautifully, making cooking future meals easier and tastier.
How to Serve Garlic Confit Recipe
Garnishes
Garlic confit is a delectable garnish that adds sweetness and richness wherever sprinkled. Try tossing cloves onto toasted bread, mashed potatoes, or atop roasted meats to bring an extra layer of savoriness and a touch of buttery softness.
Side Dishes
Adding garlic confit to vegetables, grains, or dips turns simple sides into crowd-pleasers. Mix some cloves and oil into steamed green beans, roasted carrots, or creamy risotto to infuse your sides with comfort-food vibes full of aromatic warmth.
Creative Ways to Present
If you want to impress friends, serve garlic confit as part of a cheese board or antipasto platter. Spread it on crostini with a drizzle of the oil, pair it with olives and cured meats, or whip it into compound butter for a show-stopping finish to steaks and seafood.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Your garlic confit will keep well refrigerated for up to two weeks if stored covered with oil in a clean glass container. Always ensure the garlic stays submerged in oil to avoid exposure to air, which can cause spoilage.
Freezing
For longer storage, you can freeze garlic confit. Place the cloves and oil into an airtight container or freezer-safe jar. When ready to use, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat gently as needed.
Reheating
When reheating garlic confit, do it gently over low heat to preserve its tender texture and flavors. Avoid boiling or overheating as this can cause the garlic to toughen or lose its delicate sweetness.
FAQs
What is garlic confit?
Garlic confit is garlic cloves slow-cooked in olive oil at a low temperature until soft and tender. The process mellows the garlic’s sharpness while infusing the oil with deep flavor, making both the garlic and oil versatile ingredients.
Can I use garlic confit in raw dishes?
Yes! The garlic cloves from the confit are soft and mild enough to be used in raw dishes like spreads or dressings, adding richness without the intensity of raw garlic.
How long can I keep garlic confit in the fridge?
Stored properly with the garlic submerged in oil, garlic confit can safely be kept in the fridge for up to two weeks, allowing you to use it over several meals.
Is the oil used in garlic confit safe to use?
Absolutely. The garlic-infused oil is delicious and adds wonderful flavor to dishes. Just make sure to strain and store it properly in the fridge and use within two weeks to maintain safety and quality.
What dishes pair best with garlic confit?
Garlic confit works wonders in pasta, mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, spreads, and grilled meats. Its sweet and mellow garlic flavor enhances nearly any savory dish.
Final Thoughts
This Garlic Confit Recipe is a game changer in any home kitchen. The ease of preparation combined with the incredible flavor payoff makes it a must-try for garlic lovers and food enthusiasts alike. Give it a go, and you’ll find yourself reaching for that jar of buttery, aromatic garlic confit to elevate everyday meals into unforgettable experiences.
