Garlic Braised in Olive Oil

Garlic braised in olive oil is a delightful way to infuse this pungent bulb with a mellow and sweet flavor. This method softens the garlic, making it perfect for sauces or as a delicious vegetable side. With the option to use peeled garlic, the process becomes incredibly easy. Low heat and patience are key to achieving tender and golden garlic cloves. The olive oil used in this recipe can also be repurposed for sautéing or as a flavorful addition to sauces. Embrace the versatility of this dish and explore various serving options to elevate your culinary creations.

Makes: 40 or more cloves

Time: 45 minutes or less

INGREDIENTS:

• 1/2 cup good extra virgin olive oil
• 40 or more cloves of garlic, peeled
• Salt

INSTRUCTIONS:

1. In a skillet large enough to fit the garlic cloves in a single layer, heat the extra virgin olive oil over medium-low heat. Once the oil is hot, add the peeled garlic cloves to the skillet. Sprinkle the garlic with a pinch of salt.
2. Adjust the heat so the garlic cloves just sizzle gently in the oil. Be cautious not to cook them at too high a temperature, as slow cooking is essential to achieving tender and golden garlic.
3. Cook the garlic, turning the cloves occasionally to brown them evenly. Gradually, the garlic will turn a beautiful golden color and then begin to brown. The garlic is done when it becomes perfectly tender, which should take approximately 15 to 20 minutes.
4. Once the garlic is cooked to perfection, remove the skillet from the heat. The garlic should be soft and spreadable.
5. Store the garlic, along with the olive oil, in the refrigerator. It’s best to use the garlic within a few days.

SERVING SUGGESTIONS:

• Stir into sauces or soups: Add the garlic braised in olive oil to any cooked sauce or soup where you would typically use garlic. It’s best to incorporate the garlic toward the end of the cooking process.
• Enhance your pizza: Before adding other ingredients, spread the garlic on any pizza crust for an extra burst of flavor.
• Flavorful vegetable purées and mashed potatoes: Mix the garlic into vegetable purées or mashed potatoes for a delightful taste enhancement.
• Add to dressings and sauces: Incorporate the garlic into vinaigrettes, mayonnaise, pesto, gravy, or almost any other sauce for added depth and richness.
• Toss with grains and vegetables: Enhance the flavors of cooked grain or legume dishes by tossing them with the garlic-infused olive oil. You can also use it as a dressing for cooked vegetables.
• Spread on meats and poultry: Mash the garlic with some olive oil or soft butter and use it as a spread on cooked meat, poultry, or full-flavored fish.

VARIATION:

Garlic Braised in Oil and Vinegar:

For a tangy twist, add a full-flavored vinegar to the braised garlic:

• Include 1/4 cup of balsamic, sherry, or your preferred vinegar with the garlic in the skillet.
• Continue with the recipe, and once the vinegar is no longer visible in the skillet (absorbed by the garlic), the garlic is done.

Enjoy the versatility of Garlic Braised in Olive Oil and savor the delicious garlic cloves in various dishes. This delightful recipe will become a go-to for enhancing the flavors of your culinary creations.