I love roasted garlic, but it usually takes about an hour in the oven. Fortunately, with an air fryer, we can cut the roasting time in half! This recipe only takes 20-25 minutes to complete.
Ⅰ.Ingredients
- Whole garlic bulbs
- Olive oil
- Salt
- Aluminum foil
Ⅱ.Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Garlic
Start by cutting the top off each garlic bulb, exposing the individual cloves. This helps the garlic roast evenly and allows the olive oil to penetrate the cloves, enhancing their flavor. Remove any loose outer layers of the garlic skin, but leave enough to hold the bulb together. This step ensures that the garlic remains intact during the roasting process.
Step 2: Season the Garlic
Drizzle each bulb with olive oil, making sure the exposed cloves are well coated. Olive oil adds richness and helps the garlic caramelize beautifully. Sprinkle a little salt over the top for added flavor. The salt not only seasons the garlic but also draws out its natural sweetness during roasting.
Step 3: Wrap in Foil
Wrap each garlic bulb in a piece of aluminum foil, making sure it is sealed well to keep the steam in. Wrapping the garlic in foil creates a mini steam chamber, allowing the garlic to cook evenly and preventing it from drying out. This step is crucial for achieving that tender, spreadable texture.
Step 4: Air Fry
Preheat your air fryer to 390°F (200°C). Place the wrapped garlic bulbs in the air fryer basket and cook for 20-25 minutes. The high heat of the air fryer helps caramelize the garlic, giving it a deep, rich flavor. Check for doneness by piercing a clove with a fork; it should be soft and caramelized. If the garlic isn’t quite done, you can continue to cook it for a few more minutes until it reaches the desired consistency.
Step 5: Cool and Serve
Allow the garlic to cool slightly before handling. Squeeze the roasted cloves out of their skins and enjoy! Roasted garlic can be used immediately or stored in the refrigerator for up to a week. Its sweet, mellow flavor enhances a variety of dishes, making it a versatile addition to your kitchen.
Ⅲ.Uses for Roasted Garlic
Roasted garlic is incredibly versatile and can elevate many dishes. Here are some of my favorite ways to use it:
1.Garlic Mashed Potatoes
This is a signature dish my aunt makes for certain holidays. Mix the roasted garlic cloves into regular mashed potatoes for a delightful twist! The creamy potatoes combined with the sweet, mellow garlic create a side dish that’s both comforting and full of flavor.
2.Appetizer Bread or Crackers
Some people are crazy about garlic (hello!), and you can impress them by serving some bread and roasted garlic as an appetizer. If you have leftovers, it’s super easy to make and use. Spread roasted garlic on slices of crusty bread or crackers for a simple yet impressive appetizer. The rich, buttery flavor of the roasted garlic pairs perfectly with the crisp texture of the bread.
3.Add to Mayonnaise
This is possibly the best mayonnaise variation I’ve ever thought of. Roasted garlic mayo on a turkey sandwich—I’ll take three. Simply mash the roasted garlic cloves and mix them into your favorite mayonnaise. This adds a new depth of flavor to sandwiches, wraps, and even as a dip for fries.
4.Use in Salsas and Dips
I’m craving everything on this list right now, so let’s add some chips and salsa like any great feast. Delicious. Roasted garlic can be blended into salsas and dips, adding a subtle sweetness and complexity. It’s a great way to elevate your snacking experience.
Ⅳ.Conclusion
Roasting garlic in an air fryer is not only easy but also delivers delicious results every time. The air fryer ensures the garlic is cooked evenly with a perfectly caramelized exterior and a tender, juicy interior. Whether you’re making a quick dinner for your family or preparing a feast for friends, roasted garlic is a versatile ingredient you’ll want to incorporate into your cooking.The next time you need roasted garlic, give this air fryer method a try and enjoy a restaurant-quality flavor at home. Its simplicity and efficiency make it a must-try for any home cook.
