How to roast garlic to make it soft and spreadable?

Question

Get the steps to transform garlic cloves into creamy roasted perfection.

Answer 1

To roast garlic to make it soft and spreadable, cut off the top of a whole head, drizzle with olive oil, wrap in foil, and bake in a moderate oven (190-200°C / 375-400°F) until cloves are golden and tender.

Detailed Explanation:

Roasted garlic is a transformative ingredient – its pungent raw flavor mellows into a sweet, nutty, and creamy paste perfect for spreading or incorporating into dishes.

1. Preparation:
   • Whole Head: Start with a whole head of garlic. Do not separate the cloves.
   • Trim Top: Using a sharp knife, carefully slice about 1/4 to 1/2 inch off the very top of the head, exposing the tips of the individual cloves. Leave the root end intact, as it holds the cloves together.
   • Remove Loose Skin: Peel off any very loose, papery outer layers of the garlic head, but leave enough to keep the head together.
2. Seasoning & Wrapping:
   • Oil: Place the trimmed garlic head on a square of aluminum foil. Drizzle the exposed cloves generously with olive oil, ensuring it seeps down between them.
   • Optional Seasoning: You can sprinkle with a pinch of salt and pepper, or a sprig of fresh thyme or rosemary.
   • Wrap Securely: Wrap the garlic head tightly in the aluminum foil packet, forming a sealed pouch.
3. Roasting:
   • Temperature: Place the foil packet directly on an oven rack or small baking sheet in a preheated oven at 190-200°C (375-400°F).
   • Bake Time: Roast for 30-60 minutes, depending on the size of the garlic head and how soft you want it. Smaller heads might be done in 30, larger ones might need closer to an hour.
   • Check Doneness: The garlic is done when the cloves are very soft, golden-brown, and easily squeezed out of their papery skins.
4. Serving: Allow to cool slightly. Squeeze the soft, roasted garlic cloves out of their skins. Use as a spread on bread, mix into mashed potatoes, sauces, or dressings.

Pro Tip:

For a slightly more intense, nutty flavor, you can briefly expose the unwrapped garlic head to the oven's heat for the last 5-10 minutes, allowing the cut surfaces to brown a bit more.