Description
Garlic Confit with Thyme and Olive Oil is a slow-cooked garlic recipe that transforms fresh garlic cloves into sweet, tender, and aromatic gems. Infused with earthy thyme and slow-poached in high-quality extra virgin olive oil, this versatile condiment adds a deep, mellow flavor to breads, roasted vegetables, and more, making it a treasured staple in any kitchen.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups fresh garlic cloves, peeled
- 2 cups extra virgin olive oil
- 3–4 fresh thyme sprigs
- 1/4 teaspoon salt (a pinch)
Instructions
- Prepare the Garlic: Start by peeling a generous amount of garlic cloves, ensuring they’re whole and unblemished. This ensures the garlic remains intact during the slow cooking process and yields a creamy texture inside.
- Combine Ingredients in a Small Pan: Place the peeled garlic cloves into a small saucepan. Add fresh thyme sprigs and pour in enough extra virgin olive oil to completely submerge the garlic.
- Slow Cook the Garlic: Set the heat to the lowest setting and gently warm the mixture. The olive oil should barely bubble—aim for a steady, gentle simmer. Cook for 45 minutes to 1 hour, stirring occasionally to ensure even softness without browning.
- Cool and Store: Once the garlic cloves are tender and golden, remove the pan from heat. Let the garlic confit cool with the thyme in the oil. Then transfer everything into a clean, sterilized jar, ensuring the garlic remains covered with oil and thyme sprigs before sealing tightly.
Notes
- Use fresh thyme to ensure a brighter, more vibrant herbal flavor compared to dried herbs.
- Keep the heat very low and cook slowly to prevent burning the garlic and olive oil, which can cause bitterness.
- Choose a good quality extra virgin olive oil with fruity or grassy notes, as its flavor is key to the final dish.
- Make sure the garlic cloves stay fully submerged in oil during both cooking and storage to avoid spoilage.
- Sterilize storage jars before use to safely extend the shelf life of your garlic confit.
- Store the confit refrigerated for up to two weeks, or freeze in small portions for up to three months.
- Reheat gently over low heat; avoid boiling to preserve delicate flavors and texture.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 tablespoon
- Calories: 120
- Sugar: 0.1g
- Sodium: 60mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 2g
- Fiber: 0.1g
- Protein: 0.3g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: garlic confit, thyme, olive oil, slow cooked garlic, garlic spread, Mediterranean condiment, garlic recipe, versatile cooking oil