This creamy garlic confit is a delight! It’s made by slowly cooking garlic in oil until it’s soft and sweet. The result is buttery, flavorful goodness perfect for spreading or adding to dishes!
Honestly, I could eat it by the spoonful! It’s super easy to make, and I love using it in everything from pasta to sandwiches. Give it a try for a tasty twist!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Garlic: Use whole garlic cloves for the best flavor. If you can’t find fresh garlic, you can use pre-peeled garlic from the store. Just remember that the fresher the garlic, the better the confit will taste!
Olive Oil: This recipe calls for olive oil, but you could use other oils like avocado oil or grapeseed oil if you prefer a lighter flavor. Be cautious, though—using a more robust oil can change the flavor profile!
Heavy Cream: If you’re looking for lighter alternatives, coconut cream works well for a dairy-free option. Some people also like using Greek yogurt, but that would add a tangy flavor, so keep that in mind.
Butter: While butter adds richness, you can omit it for a dairy-free version or substitute it with vegan butter for a similar taste.
How Do I Achieve the Perfect Garlic Confit Texture?
The secret to creamy garlic confit lies in the slow cooking process. Cooking garlic slowly in oil makes it tender and sweet; if you rush this step, you might end up with bitter garlic. Here’s how to get it right:
- Set your heat to low. This is crucial—it should barely bubble.
- Simmer the garlic for about 45 minutes to 1 hour. Check for tenderness; the cloves should easily mash with a fork.
- Blend with the cream and butter until smooth. If it’s too thick, add a little extra oil or cream until it reaches your desired consistency.
Trust me, taking your time here will give you a wonderfully creamy texture that you’ll love!
How to Make Creamy Garlic Confit
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Garlic Confit:
- 2 cups whole garlic cloves (peeled)
- 2 cups olive oil (or enough to cover the garlic)
For the Creamy Base:
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
- Salt to taste
For Garnish:
- Fresh herbs (optional, e.g., thyme or parsley)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This creamy garlic confit takes about 1 hour and 15 minutes total—1 hour of cooking and 15 minutes of prep. It’s an easy process, with most of the time spent letting the garlic cook low and slow for the best flavor!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Garlic:
Start by peeling the garlic cloves. You can do this easily by smashing them with the flat side of a knife; the skins should come off easily!
2. Cooking the Garlic:
In a small saucepan, place the peeled garlic cloves and add enough olive oil to completely cover them. Heat it over very low heat—this is super important as we want the oil to gently simmer, not boil! Let the garlic cook for about 45 minutes to 1 hour. Keep an eye on it; the garlic should become tender and a lovely golden color.
3. Blending the Confit:
When the garlic is done cooking, remove the pan from heat and let it cool for a few minutes. Next, transfer the garlic cloves to a blender or food processor, along with a few tablespoons of the lovely infused oil. Add the heavy cream and butter, then blend until everything is smooth and creamy.
4. Final Touches:
Season your creamy garlic confit with salt to taste. It’s all about finding the perfect balance for your palate!
5. Storage and Usage:
Store your creamy garlic confit in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week. You can use it as a spread on bread, a dip for veggies, or to boost the flavor of sauces and other dishes. If you’d like, sprinkle some fresh herbs on top before serving for a fancy touch!
Enjoy your delicious creamy garlic confit, and get ready to impress your family and friends with this rich flavor!
Can I Use Garlic Powder Instead of Fresh Garlic?
While garlic powder adds flavor, it won’t give you the same creamy texture or sweetness as fresh garlic. For the best results, stick with whole garlic cloves to achieve that rich, flavorful confit.
How Long Will the Garlic Confit Last in the Fridge?
Your creamy garlic confit can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. Just make sure the garlic is always submerged in oil to keep it fresh!
Can I Freeze Creamy Garlic Confit?
Yes! You can freeze the garlic confit for up to three months. Just place it in an airtight container or freezer-safe bag, making sure to remove as much air as possible. Thaw it in the fridge overnight before using.
What Are Some Ways to Use Creamy Garlic Confit?
The possibilities are endless! Use it as a spread on bread or crackers, mix it into pasta dishes, incorporate it into soups or sauces for extra flavor, or even dollop it on roasted vegetables. It adds a delightful depth to a variety of meals!
