How to Preserve Garlic in Oil

Ingredients:

• 2 cups fresh garlic cloves (peeled)
• 2 cups extra virgin olive oil (or any vegetable oil of your choice)

Equipment:

• Sterilized glass jar with a tight-fitting lid
• Clean spoon or spatula
• Small saucepan

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Garlic:
   • Peel the garlic cloves. You can do this by placing the cloves in a bowl, covering it with another bowl, and shaking vigorously. This will loosen the skins, making them easy to peel off.
2. Sterilize the Jar:
   • Sterilize your glass jar by washing it with hot, soapy water, then rinsing thoroughly. To ensure complete sterilization, you can place the jar and lid in boiling water for 10 minutes, then let them air dry.
3. Blanch the Garlic (Optional):
   • To soften the garlic slightly and reduce its raw pungency, you can blanch the cloves. Bring a small saucepan of water to a boil, then add the garlic cloves and blanch them for 30 seconds. Drain and pat them dry with a clean towel.
4. Fill the Jar:
   • Place the peeled garlic cloves into the sterilized jar. Pack them in, but leave a little space at the top.
5. Add the Oil:
   • Pour the olive oil over the garlic cloves, ensuring they are fully submerged. The oil should cover the garlic by at least half an inch. This will help prevent the growth of bacteria.
6. Seal the Jar:
   • Use a clean spoon or spatula to remove any air bubbles from the jar. Wipe the rim of the jar with a clean cloth, then seal it tightly with the lid.
7. Store the Jar:
   • Store the jar in the refrigerator. The garlic in oil can be kept for up to 2-3 weeks in the fridge. The oil will solidify when chilled, but it will liquefy again at room temperature.

Important Note:

• Botulism Warning: Garlic in oil can potentially develop Clostridium botulinum bacteria, which causes botulism, a rare but serious illness. To reduce this risk, always store garlic in oil in the refrigerator and use within 2-3 weeks. Never leave garlic in oil at room temperature.

Enjoy your preserved garlic in a variety of dishes, from salads to sauces, or simply spread it on bread!