MINCED GARLIC IN OLIVE OIL

MINCED GARLIC IN OLIVE OIL

Minced garlic in olive oil

MINCED GARLIC IN OLIVE OIL

MINCED GARLIC IN OLIVE OIL is a great recipe to have on hand for quick and easy meal preparation. It adds depth and complexity to dishes and can elevate even the simplest of recipes. With this recipe, you can create a versatile ingredient that can be used in countless dishes, making your meals more flavorful and satisfying. Give it a try and see the difference it makes in your cooking!
Garlic is one of the most magical ingredients in the kitchen. It adds a robust flavor and aroma to almost any dish, and minced garlic in olive oil is a classic combination that is widely used in cooking. This recipe is simple to prepare and can be used in various dishes, including salads, pasta, sauces, marinades, and more.
This minced garlic infused in olive oil will mellow out the sharpness of raw garlic, while still retaining its distinct flavor profile. The oil will also become highly aromatic and imbued with the essence of garlic.
I have discovered that using minced garlic infused in olive oil not only enhances the flavor of my dishes but also provides a nutritional boost over garlic powder. With its abundance of fiber and nutrients, this versatile ingredient has become a staple in my kitchen, replacing the bland and artificial taste of garlic powder. I now find myself reaching for this garlic-infused oil to add depth and complexity to my cooking.
To start, you'll need some high-quality extra-virgin cold pressed olive oil and fresh garlic cloves. It's important to use a good quality olive oil, as it will affect the overall flavor of the dish. You can either mince garlic by hand, or use a garlic press, or a blender to make the process easier. If using blender, add olive oil to the garlic cloves and process until smooth. You can make it as chunky or smooth as you'd like. Transfer to a clean dry container and add enough olive oil to cover the processed garlic completely.
When using the minced garlic, remove it from the fridge and scoop out the required quantity using a clean spoon. As a rule of thumb, one teaspoon of minced garlic is approximately equivalent to one medium garlic clove. After use, store the remaining garlic in the fridge until next time. It's important to remember that the garlic with oil should always be kept in the fridge when not in use. It typically lasts up to 5 days in the refrigerator, after which it may pose a risk of botulism if consumed.
If you have leftover minced garlic that you won't be able to use within this timeframe, consider freezing it in ice cube trays for later use. This will help preserve the flavor and quality of the garlic for longer periods.
If you're looking to preserve the freshness of minced garlic in olive oil without freezing it, a useful method is to heat the oil in a small saucepan over medium-low heat. Add the minced garlic to the oil, along with a pinch of salt, and stir well. Cook the garlic and oil mixture for 5-7 minutes, or until the garlic turns a light golden color. Be sure to keep an eye on the garlic as it cooks, as it can burn quickly and become bitter. This process helps to eliminate any bacteria that could cause the garlic to spoil, while also helping to infuse the oil with garlic flavor. Be sure to monitor the heat carefully, as overheating the oil can lead to a loss of flavor and potentially harmful compounds. Once the garlic is cooked, remove the saucepan from the heat and allow it to cool for a few minutes. Transfer the mixture to a glass jar and store it in the refrigerator for up to two weeks.
Minced garlic in olive oil not only adds a delicious flavor to your dishes, but it also provides several health benefits.
Garlic is a rich source of vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C, vitamin B6, manganese, selenium, and fiber. It also contains sulfur compounds, which give garlic its distinct flavor and scent. These sulfur compounds, such as allicin, are known to have anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties. Research has shown that consuming garlic regularly may help lower blood pressure, reduce cholesterol levels, which may reduce the risk of heart disease, and improve immune function. Garlic has also been shown to have antibacterial and antiviral properties, which may help fight infections.
Olive oil is also rich in healthy monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats, which have been linked to lower rates of heart disease, diabetes, and other chronic diseases. It's also a good source of vitamin E, a powerful antioxidant that helps protect the body from damage caused by free radicals. Olive oil has also been linked to numerous health benefits, including improved heart health, better brain function, and reduced inflammation. Additionally, the healthy fats in olive oil can help the body absorb and use the fat-soluble vitamins found in garlic.
When garlic is minced and mixed with olive oil, it not only adds flavor but also releases the sulfur compounds and other beneficial compounds in the garlic. This can help enhance the health benefits of both ingredients.
The minced garlic in olive oil can be used as a base for pasta sauces, stir-fries, marinades, dressings, and more. Additionally, you can drizzle the mixture over roasted vegetables, meats, or seafood before serving to add a burst of flavor.
Prep Time 5 minutes
Total Time 5 minutes
Course Marinade
Servings 50 teaspoons
Calories 42 kcal

Equipment

  • 1 Blender or you can use knife/ garlic press, grater

Ingredients
  

  • 1 cup garlic cloves
  • 1 cup olive oil extra virgin, cold pressed

OPTIONAL

    Instructions
     

    • Put all ingredients in a blender and process until desired consistency. If needed, add more olive oil to achieve a smoother consistency and blend the garlic more evenly.
    • Transfer to a clean dry container and make sure the garlic is completely covered in oil. When using the minced garlic, remove it from the fridge and scoop out the required quantity using a clean spoon. As a rule of thumb, one teaspoon of minced garlic is approximately equivalent to one medium garlic clove.
    • It's important to remember that the garlic with oil should always be kept in the fridge when not in use. Store it in the fridge for up to 5 days and toss it after 5 days.

    Notes

    FRESH GARLIC SUBSTITUTIONS
    One garlic clove is generally equivalent to approximately one teaspoon of minced garlic. This ratio may vary slightly based on the size of the garlic clove and the desired intensity of garlic flavor in the dish.
    1 clove of garlic = 1 tsp minced garlic= ⅛ tsp garlic powder = ½ tsp garlic flakes = ¼ tsp granulated garlic

    Nutrition

    Serving: 2teaspoonsCalories: 42kcalCarbohydrates: 1gProtein: 0.2gFat: 4gSaturated Fat: 1gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.5gMonounsaturated Fat: 3gSodium: 1mgPotassium: 11mgFiber: 0.1gSugar: 0.03gVitamin A: 0.2IUVitamin C: 1mgCalcium: 5mgIron: 0.1mg
    Tried this recipe?Don't forget to Like and Share!


    Leave a comment


    Facebook
    Instagram
    Twitter
    Youtube
    Pinterest

    Discover more from Julia's Green Kitchen

    Subscribe now to keep reading and get access to the full archive.

    Continue reading