Savory Baked Garlic Purée
Baked garlic purée is a versatile condiment that can elevate your dishes with its rich, mellow flavor. This recipe transforms plain garlic into a creamy spread that can be used in various ways, whether to enhance pasta, dressings, or simply as a dip.
Have you ever wondered how to unlock the sweet, caramelized notes of garlic? Baking it not only softens the cloves but also brings out a depth of flavor that fresh garlic can’t match. Imagine slathering this delightful purée on warm bread or blending it into your favorite sauces.
This recipe is perfect for both novice cooks and seasoned chefs. You’ll find that making baked garlic purée is not only easy but also a great way to add a gourmet touch to your meals.
Introduction to Baked Garlic Purée
Baked garlic purée offers a unique flavor that transforms ordinary dishes into culinary delights.
Its mellow, creamy texture makes it an ideal addition to many recipes.
When garlic is roasted, it develops sweet and nutty undertones, creating a rich spread that can enhance a variety of meals.
The Allure of Roasting Garlic
Roasting garlic is a simple yet effective way to unlock its natural sweetness.
The process softens the cloves, turning them into a creamy purée that can be used for spreads, dips, or even sauces.
This technique is beloved by both home cooks and professional chefs for the depth it brings to dishes.
Creating the Perfect Purée
To make an outstanding baked garlic purée, start by selecting fresh garlic heads.
Once prepared, the garlic cloves are drizzled with olive oil and seasoned with salt, enhancing their flavor during baking.
Wrapping the garlic in foil allows it to roast evenly, resulting in a beautifully caramelized finish.
Serving Suggestions
This creamy purée is incredibly versatile.
Spread it on warm, crusty bread for a simple appetizer or use it to elevate pasta dishes and salad dressings.
Its smooth consistency makes it easy to blend into sauces, giving them a luxurious texture.
Storage and Shelf Life
Storing baked garlic purée properly ensures it remains fresh.
Transfer the purée to a clean jar, topping it with a drizzle of olive oil to keep it preserved.
When stored in the refrigerator, it can last up to a week, making it a convenient condiment to have on hand.
Nutrition and Serving Size
This baked garlic purée is not only tasty but also low in calories.
With approximately 40 calories per serving, it fits well into various diets while adding flavor without excess calories.
Each serving provides a delightful way to enjoy the health benefits of garlic.
The Best Baked Garlic Purée
This baked garlic purée is creamy and rich, with a sweet and nutty taste that complements a wide variety of dishes. Its smooth texture makes it perfect for spreading on bread or mixing into sauces.
Ingredients
- 1 head of garlic
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt to taste
- Fresh herbs (like thyme or rosemary) for flavor, optional
Instructions
- Prep the Garlic: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Cut off the top of the garlic head to expose the cloves.
- Add Olive Oil: Drizzle the exposed cloves with olive oil and sprinkle with a pinch of salt. Wrap the garlic head in aluminum foil.
- Bake: Place the wrapped garlic in the oven and bake for about 30-35 minutes, or until the cloves are soft and golden brown.
- Cool and Purée: Allow the garlic to cool slightly, then squeeze the cloves out of their skins into a bowl. Use a fork or a food processor to mash or blend the garlic until smooth.
- Store: Transfer the purée into a clean jar and drizzle a bit of olive oil on top to preserve it. Store in the refrigerator for up to a week.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Servings: 8 servings
- Calories: 40kcal
- Fat: 4.5g
- Protein: 1g
- Carbohydrates: 2g
Add comment