Garlic Confit

Directions

1. 1
   Position a rack in the center of the oven and heat to 325F.
2. 2
   Put the garlic in a small baking dish (see Note) along with a pinch or two of salt and just enough oil to cover (the exact amount will depend on the size and shape of your vessel).
3. 3
   Cover tightly with aluminum foil.
4. 4
   Bake until the garlic is completely soft and just barely starting to turn color, about 40 minutes.
5. 5
   (Check the progress periodically and be careful not to let the garlic brown, as this makes the garlic bitter and tough.)
6. 6
   Remove from the oven and let cool to room temperature.
7. 7
   At this point, you can leave the mixture as is, or puree all or part of it in a blender or food processor (this makes it easier to add to soups, dressings, and marinades).
8. 8
   Transfer to a storage container.
9. 9
   Refrigerated, it will keep for several weeks.
10. 10
    You can use just about any oven-safe vessel for this, including a saute pan or saucepan, as long as you cover it tightly.
11. 11
    Deep vessels with a small diameter will require less oil than broad shallow ones.