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Silky Garlic Confit in Olive Oil

silky garlic confit - featured image

A simple and forgiving recipe for slow-cooked garlic cloves in olive oil that results in a silky texture and mellow, lasting flavor. Perfect for enhancing a variety of dishes with rich, buttery garlic taste.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cups peeled garlic cloves (about 2024 medium cloves)
  • 2 cups (480 ml) extra virgin olive oil
  • 23 fresh thyme sprigs (optional)
  • 1 bay leaf (optional)
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt (a pinch)

Instructions

  1. Peel about 2 cups (roughly 20-24 cloves) of garlic. To speed up peeling, smash cloves lightly with the flat side of a knife.
  2. Place the garlic cloves in a small saucepan along with 2 cups (480 ml) of extra virgin olive oil. Add 2-3 fresh thyme sprigs, 1 bay leaf, and a pinch of salt (about 1/4 teaspoon).
  3. Set the pan over the lowest heat possible. The oil should barely bubble, around 200Β°F (93Β°C). Cook for 45 to 60 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
  4. Watch the garlic as it slowly turns golden and softens to a buttery consistency. It is ready when a clove can be pierced easily with a fork but has not browned or crisped.
  5. Remove the pan from heat and let it cool to room temperature. Transfer the garlic and oil to a clean, airtight jar.
  6. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 weeks. Use a clean spoon to scoop out garlic cloves and oil as needed.

Notes

Keep the heat low to avoid burning the garlic. Use fresh garlic for best texture and flavor. Store refrigerated in an airtight container and always use a clean spoon to avoid contamination. The confit lasts up to 3 weeks in the fridge. For longer storage, freeze in ice cube trays. The infused oil is excellent for dressings, sautΓ©ing, or drizzling.

Nutrition

Keywords: garlic confit, garlic in olive oil, slow cooked garlic, garlic spread, garlic condiment, easy garlic recipe, vegan garlic, garlic flavor