Ingredients:

  • 2 cups extra virgin olive oil
  • 1 cup garlic cloves, peeled and lightly smashed
  • 1/2 tsp sea salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper

Instructions:

  1. Peel the garlic cloves and press them lightly with the side of a knife to smash them without mincing. Note: This exposes the interior without creating tiny pieces that burn.
  2. Combine the olive oil and smashed garlic in a heavy bottomed saucepan over the lowest possible heat setting.
  3. Simmer gently for 30 minutes until the garlic is pale gold and soft. Note: Ensure it does not fry or sizzle loudly.
  4. Keep a close eye on the bubbles; if they become too aggressive, lift the pan off the heat for a few seconds.
  5. Remove the pan from the heat once the aroma is fragrant and the cloves are tender.
  6. Use a fine mesh strainer to separate the infused oil from the softened garlic cloves.
  7. Stir in the sea salt and black pepper while the oil is still warm.
  8. Pour the oil into sterile glass canning jars with airtight lids.