Creamy garlic confit is a buttery treat that’s easy to make! Just slow-cook garlic cloves in olive oil until they’re soft and sweet. It’s perfect for spreading on bread or adding to dishes.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Garlic: Fresh whole garlic cloves are essential for this recipe. You can use peeled garlic from the store for convenience, but fresh heads give the best flavor. If garlic isn’t available, shallots can be a nice alternative, though the taste will be different.
Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil is my favorite for its robust flavor, but regular olive oil works too. You could substitute with avocado oil if you prefer a milder taste or need it for high-heat cooking. Don’t throw away the flavored oil afterwards – it’s great for dressing salads!
Unsalted Butter: I recommend unsalted for the best control over seasoning. If you want a dairy-free option, try using a plant-based butter or coconut oil. Both can add a unique twist to the flavor.
How Do I Ensure My Garlic Confit Is Perfectly Creamy?
To get that creamy texture, slow cooking is crucial. Here’s how to nail it:
- Make sure your oven isn’t too hot; low and slow is the key. 250°F works well.
- Check the garlic after 1.5 hours – it should be soft and golden. If it’s not, give it some more time.
- When mashing the garlic with butter, use a fork to get it really smooth—this helps it become creamy.
Lastly, don’t rush the cooling process; letting it sit helps develop the flavors even more. You’re going to love using this in so many dishes!
How to Make Creamy Garlic Confit
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 cups whole garlic cloves (about 3-4 heads of garlic), peeled
- 1 to 1.5 cups olive oil (enough to submerge the garlic)
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- Salt, to taste
- Optional: fresh thyme or rosemary sprigs for flavor
How Much Time Will You Need?
You’ll need about 10 minutes to prepare the ingredients, plus 1.5 to 2 hours for slow-cooking in the oven. After cooking, give yourself a few minutes to mash the garlic and butter together. The total time will be around 2 hours and 10 minutes—most of it is hands-off cooking!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 250°F (120°C). This low temperature will ensure that the garlic cooks slowly and evenly.
2. Prepare the Garlic:
Place the peeled garlic cloves in a small ovenproof dish or jar. Make sure they’re in a single layer if possible for even cooking.
3. Add Olive Oil:
Pour the olive oil over the garlic cloves until they are completely submerged. This will help the garlic cook slowly and become tender.
4. Season with Salt and Herbs:
Add a pinch of salt to enhance the flavor. If you’re using them, drop in a few sprigs of fresh thyme or rosemary to give the confit some extra aroma and depth.
5. Cover and Cook:
Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil or a lid, and place it in the preheated oven. Allow the garlic to slow-cook for about 1.5 to 2 hours, until the cloves are soft, golden, and creamy when poked with a fork.
6. Drain and Mash:
Once the garlic is cooked, carefully remove the dish from the oven and let it cool slightly. Drain the oil into a separate container (you can use it for dressings or cooking later!). Then, transfer the softened garlic cloves to a bowl and mash them together with the unsalted butter until smooth and creamy.
7. Adjust Seasoning:
Taste your creamy garlic confit and add more salt if needed. Mix it in well to ensure delicious flavor in every spoonful!
8. Store and Enjoy:
Transfer the creamy garlic confit to an airtight container and refrigerate. It will keep for up to 2 weeks. Use it spread on toasted bread, stirred into mashed potatoes or pasta, or as a tasty addition to sauces and dressings!
Enjoy every creamy, garlicky bite!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Garlic Powder Instead of Fresh Garlic?
Unfortunately, garlic powder won’t work for this recipe. The confit relies on slow roasting fresh garlic cloves to achieve a creamy texture and deep flavor. Stick with fresh garlic for the best results!
How Do I Store the Garlic Oil?
The oil you drain after cooking is packed with flavor and can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 month. Use it to sauté vegetables, drizzle over pasta, or as a dressing base.
Can I Freeze Creamy Garlic Confit?
Yes, you can freeze garlic confit! Transfer it to a freezer-safe container or ice cube trays for easy portioning. It will keep for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before using, and enjoy its rich flavor anytime!
What Other Ways Can I Use Garlic Confit?
There are so many delicious uses! Stir it into mashed potatoes, spread it on toast, blend it into salad dressings, or add it to pasta for an instant flavor boost. Be creative with this versatile ingredient!
