1-Preheat your oven: Getting garlic confit just right is all about taking it slow and steady, which keeps the flavors gentle and delicious. Start by preheating your oven to 120°C (250°F), a low temperature that works wonders without burning anything. This method is straightforward, making it easy for students or newlyweds to whip up something impressive.

2-Peel the garlic: First, peel the garlic by separating the cloves and soaking them in boiling water for 5 minutes to loosen the skins. Once that’s done, remove the skins and trim the top part of each clove for a better texture. It’s a simple step that saves time and ensures even cooking.

3-Place garlic and thyme: Next, place the peeled garlic cloves and 6 sprigs of fresh thyme into an ovenproof dish, then pour in 3 cups of extra virgin olive oil to fully submerge them. You can add optional flavors like salt, peppercorns, or lemon zest at this stage for extra depth.

4-Bake the garlic: Now, bake it for 1 to 2 hours until the garlic turns golden and soft, stirring once or twice if you like. Once it’s ready, use a slotted spoon to transfer the garlic to sterilized glass jars, making sure it’s covered with the infused oil. Let the jars cool before storing them in the refrigerator right away.

5-Total process time: This process takes about 2 hours and 45 minutes total, with 45 minutes for prep and peeling, and 2 hours for baking. It’s a rewarding activity that fits into your day, especially for busy parents who appreciate meals that can be prepped ahead.