Garlic Confit: Keep It on Hand All Year Long!

πŸ§„ 😍

Garlic confit is slow-cooked garlic cloves in oil that become soft, sweet, and deeply flavorful. Perfect to spread on bread, mix into sauces, or add to roasted vegetables, and it’s incredibly simple to make.


πŸ›’ Ingredients

  • 2 cups whole garlic cloves (about 3–4 heads of garlic), peeled
  • 2 cups olive oil (enough to fully submerge the garlic)
  • Optional: 1–2 sprigs fresh thyme, rosemary, or bay leaf

πŸ‘©β€πŸ³ Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Garlic

  1. Peel the garlic cloves. Remove any blemishes or tough ends.
  2. If you want a milder flavor, you can blanch the cloves in boiling water for 30 seconds, then drain.

Step 2: Cook Slowly

  1. Place the garlic cloves in a small saucepan.
  2. Add enough olive oil toΒ fully cover the garlic.
  3. Add optional herbs for extra flavor.
  4. Heat overΒ very low heatΒ (ideally around 90–95Β°C / 200Β°F).
  5. Cook gently forΒ 45–60 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the garlic is soft, tender, and lightly golden.
    ⚠️ Make sure the oilΒ does not boilβ€”you want a gentle simmer.

Step 3: Store

  1. Let the confit cool completely.
  2. Transfer garlic and oil into a clean, airtight jar.
  3. Store in the refrigerator for up toΒ 2–3 months.

🍴 How to Use Garlic Confit

  • Spread on toasted breadΒ for a sweet, mellow garlic flavor.
  • Mix into pasta, mashed potatoes, or riceΒ for extra richness.
  • Roast vegetables or meatsΒ with a few cloves for a flavorful boost.
  • Add to salad dressings or saucesΒ for depth of flavor.

πŸ’‘ Tips for the Best Garlic Confit

  • UseΒ fresh, firm garlic clovesΒ for the best texture and flavor.
  • Keep theΒ heat very lowβ€”high heat will burn the garlic and turn it bitter.
  • Always ensure garlic isΒ submerged in oilΒ to prevent spoilage.
  • You canΒ freeze small portionsΒ in ice cube trays for easy use year-round.

✨ With just garlic, oil, and patience, you’ll have a year-long supply of rich, sweet, melt-in-your-mouth garlic to elevate any dish!