Garlic Gold: Transform Garlic Cloves into Flavor Bombs with This Easy Oil-Preserved Recipe!

Garlic: the kitchen hero that adds depth and magic to countless dishes. But fresh garlic has a limited shelf life. Fear not, garlic lovers! This post unveils a simple method to preserve garlic in oil, transforming those cloves into flavor bombs that last for months!

Why Oil-Preserved Garlic?

• Convenience: Always have garlic on hand, ready to add a punch to any dish.
• Intensified Flavor: The oil mellows the garlic’s sharpness, creating a richer, sweeter flavor.
• Infused Oil: The leftover oil becomes a flavor powerhouse for drizzling on pizza, pasta, or vegetables.

Ingredients:

• High-quality extra virgin olive oil (enough to submerge garlic cloves)
• Fresh garlic cloves (peeled)
• Optional: Fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme (for added flavor)
• Airtight jar or container

Step-by-Step Guide to Garlic in Oil Glory:

1. Cleanliness is Key: Sterilize your jar or container by washing it thoroughly with hot soapy water and rinsing well. Let it air dry completely, or dry with a clean paper towel.
2. Garlic Prep: Peel your garlic cloves. For best results, use firm, fresh cloves without any green shoots.
3. Fill ‘Er Up: Add the peeled garlic cloves to your sterilized jar.
4. Herbal Touch (Optional): If desired, toss in a few sprigs of fresh rosemary or thyme for extra flavor.
5. Oil Bath: Pour the extra virgin olive oil over the garlic cloves, ensuring they are completely submerged. Leave a ½ inch of headspace at the top of the jar.
6. Seal the Deal: Tightly close the jar with an airtight lid.

Storage is King:

• Refrigerate It: Store your garlic in oil in the refrigerator for up to 3 months. The cold temperature prevents the growth of bacteria.
• Light Sensitivity: Keep the jar away from direct sunlight, as this can affect the flavor of the oil.

Pro Tip: Don’t discard the infused oil! Use it for drizzling, sauteing, or adding a garlicky kick to marinades.

Now, Go Forth and Garlic-ify!

With this simple recipe, you can transform garlic into a flavorful staple in your kitchen. Enjoy the convenience of always-ready garlic and the delightful taste of oil-preserved magic!