Making Garlic Confit In An Air Fryer: A Quick Guide

Garlic confit is a cooking technique that involves slow-cooking garlic cloves in oil or fat until they become soft, tender, and deeply infused with flavour. The word confit comes from the French verb confire, which means to preserve. In this case, it refers to preserving garlic by cooking it gently in oil. An air fryer is a healthier option than deep-frying as it uses little to no oil. This article will explore how to make garlic confit in an air fryer, as well as the health benefits and various ways to use it in your cooking.

Choosing the right oil

When making garlic confit in an air fryer, it is important to choose the right oil to ensure the best results. Here are some factors to consider when selecting an oil:

Smoke Point

The smoke point of an oil is the temperature at which it starts to smoke and break down. Oils with a lower smoke point may burn and smoke at high temperatures, affecting the taste of your food. For air frying, it is generally recommended to use oils with a high smoke point, such as avocado oil, extra light olive oil, or grapeseed oil.

Flavor

The type of oil you choose can also affect the flavor of your dish. Some oils, like avocado oil, extra virgin olive oil, and sunflower oil, have a neutral flavor, making them versatile for various recipes. Other oils, such as extra virgin olive oil and coconut oil, have a stronger taste that can enhance the flavor of milder dishes.

Health Benefits

When choosing an oil, consider the health benefits associated with different options. For example, avocado oil and olive oil are rich in heart-healthy unsaturated fats. Coconut oil has also gained popularity for its unique fatty acid composition and potential health benefits.

Quantity

When using an air fryer, you typically need much less oil than when deep-frying or sautéing. A light coating of oil on your food or a few sprays from an oil sprayer should be sufficient. Remember that garlic confit requires the garlic cloves to be fully submerged in oil, so use enough oil to cover them completely.

Other Considerations

• Avoid using butter or delicate cold-pressed oils in your air fryer, as they have low smoke points and are likely to burn and smoke.
• If you are using a non-stick air fryer basket, avoid cooking sprays like PAM, as they can damage the non-stick surface. Instead, opt for a non-aerosol pump-style oil spray or a refillable oil sprayer filled with a high smoke point oil.
• Some oils may not be suitable for certain recipes due to their smoke point or flavor. For example, extra virgin olive oil is best for recipes cooked at 400°F or lower.

How long to air fry for

The cooking time for garlic confit in an air fryer varies depending on the recipe and the type of air fryer being used. Some recipes suggest cooking the garlic at a lower temperature of around 250°F (120°C) for 30-40 minutes, or until the garlic cloves become soft and golden. Other recipes recommend a higher temperature of 380°F (190°C) for a shorter period of 15-20 minutes.

It's important to note that air fryer models may differ in their cooking temperatures, so adjustments may be necessary. One recipe suggests starting with a lower temperature of 200°F to prevent the garlic from burning. The cooking time can also depend on the size of the garlic cloves and the specific air fryer model being used.

For air fryer garlic confit with tomatoes, the cooking time is shorter, typically around 8-10 minutes at 350°F. This is because the tomatoes cook faster than garlic cloves alone.

When making garlic confit in an air fryer, it's crucial to keep an eye on the garlic to prevent overcooking or burning. Checking the garlic halfway through the cooking process is recommended, and if it is browning too much, the temperature can be lowered. The garlic is done when it becomes soft, buttery, and golden.

Additionally, it's important to let the garlic confit cool before handling and storing it. Hot oil can be dangerous and challenging to work with, so allowing it to cool until it is safe to touch is essential.

Storing your garlic confit

Firstly, it is important to note that garlic confit should never be stored at room temperature. The bacteria that cause botulism thrive in low-oxygen, low-acid, and low-sugar environments, and garlic stored in oil at room temperature provides the perfect conditions for their growth. Always store your garlic confit in the refrigerator to slow down the formation of these dangerous toxins.

When storing your garlic confit in the refrigerator, use a clean, airtight container, preferably made of glass. Make sure the garlic cloves are fully submerged in the oil, as this helps prevent spoilage. Cover the container tightly and, if desired, you can even add a layer of plastic wrap under the lid for added protection against air exposure.

Additionally, it is recommended to cool the garlic confit to room temperature before transferring it to the refrigerator. This helps prevent splattering and makes it safer to handle. The garlic confit can be stored in the refrigerator for up to two weeks, although some sources suggest it can last for several weeks or even a few months. However, to be completely safe, it is recommended to consume it within two to three weeks.

If you wish to keep your garlic confit for longer, you can freeze it. Freezing can extend the shelf life of your garlic confit to several months. To freeze, you can use ice cube trays to create smaller portions, which can then be transferred to a freezer-safe bag. This way, you can easily thaw and use individual portions as needed.

In summary, always store your garlic confit in the refrigerator, fully submerged in oil, and in an airtight container. Consume it within two to three weeks, or freeze it for longer-term storage. By following these simple steps, you can ensure the safety and longevity of your delicious, homemade garlic confit.

Customising the taste

Herbs and Spices

Add a sprig of rosemary or thyme to the oil before cooking to infuse your confit with extra flavour and aroma. You can also experiment with other herbs like basil or spices like chili flakes, smoked paprika, or cayenne pepper for a spicy kick. The possibilities are endless, so don't be afraid to get creative!

Oil Variations

While olive oil is a popular choice for garlic confit, you can also use other types of oils such as avocado oil, coconut oil, grapeseed oil, or canola oil. Each oil will impart a slightly different flavour, so choose one that complements your dish.

Garlic Intensity

If you prefer a milder garlic flavour, try blanching the garlic cloves before adding them to the oil. This will remove some of the pungent flavours. You can also adjust the amount of garlic and oil used to create a more or less intense garlicky taste.

Sweet and Spicy Twists

For a unique twist on the classic recipe, try adding honey or maple syrup to the oil for a touch of sweetness. Alternatively, add chili powder, smoked paprika, or cayenne pepper for an extra spicy kick. Experiment with different combinations to find your perfect flavour profile.

Other Ingredients

Garlic confit is a versatile dish that can be adapted to include other ingredients. Try adding cherry tomatoes, basil leaves, and red pepper flakes for a colourful and flavourful confit. You can also experiment with different types of garlic, such as cloves, bulbs, or pre-peeled garlic, to find your preferred texture and taste.

Creative ways to use leftovers

Now that you've made your garlic confit in an air fryer, you might be wondering what to do with the leftovers. Here are some creative ways to use them:

• Spread it on bread or crackers: The soft and flavorful garlic cloves can be spread on toasted bread, baguette slices, or crackers. You can also add some herbs or a sprinkle of sea salt to enhance the flavor.
• Mix it into dips and spreads: Try blending your garlic confit into dips like hummus, tzatziki, guacamole, or yogurt. You can also add it to mayo to make a delicious aioli that pairs well with fries, sandwiches, and more.
• Use it in pasta dishes: Stir your garlic confit into pasta sauces or simply toss it with al dente spaghetti and a drizzle of the infused oil. Add some chili flakes for a simple yet divine dish.
• Add it to mashed potatoes or roasted vegetables: Mash a few cloves of garlic confit into cooked potatoes for flavorful garlic mashed potatoes. You can also fold it into mashed or roasted potatoes for an aromatic twist.
• Flavor grilled or roasted meats: Rub garlic confit onto meats before grilling or roasting for added flavor. It's a great way to elevate your steak, chicken, or lamb dishes.
• Enhance soups and stews: Drop a few cloves of garlic confit into soups or stews for a rich and aromatic flavor. It will add depth and warmth to your comfort food.
• Make garlic confit butter: This is a great way to enjoy the flavor of garlic confit in a spreadable form. You can use it on toast, bread, or even as a base for sauces or dressings.
• Experiment with different dishes: Don't be afraid to get creative! Try adding garlic confit to salads, sandwiches, wraps, or even pizza. You can also use it in salad dressings, vinaigrettes, or as a cooking oil for veggies or meats.

Remember, these are just a few ideas to get you started. The possibilities are endless, so feel free to experiment and find new ways to enjoy your garlic confit leftovers!

Frequently asked questions