cooking essentials: baked garlic

How To Make cooking essentials: baked garlic

• 
  Step 1
  PREP/PREPARE
• 
  Step 2
  Place a rack in the middle position, and preheat the oven to 375f (190c).
• 
  Step 3
  Cut the top off of a head of garlic, place on a piece of parchment paper, drizzle with about a teaspoon or two of olive oil, and then sprinkle with a bit of salt.
• 
  Step 4
  Chef’s Note: The salt is optional; however, it does help to enhance the flavor.
• 
  Step 5
  Pull the ends of the parchment paper together, and twist together.
• 
  Step 6
  Place in the preheated oven for 20 – 25 minutes.
• 
  Step 7
  Chef’s Note: Remove from the oven, and allow it to cool.
• 
  Step 8
  Squeeze the cloves out of the skins, and then use a Santoku or large kitchen knife to completely smash the garlic.
• 
  Step 9
  Store in the refrigerator in a sealed glass container until needed.
• 
  Step 10
  Chef’s Note: The baked garlic will last several weeks, but do not freeze because, if you do, it will lose much of its flavor.
• 
  Step 11
  Chef’s Tip: When you’re using baked garlic in place of raw garlic, double the amount you’re using. So, if the recipe calls for one clove of raw garlic… use two.
• 
  Step 12
  Keep the faith, and keep cooking.
• 
  Step 13
  Additional Idea
• 
  Step 14
  Did you know that baked/mashed garlic makes an excellent spread on a piece of toast? If you haven't tried it, you should.
• Last Step: Don't forget to share! Post a picture of your finished recipe here and on your favorite social network. Don't forget to tag Just A Pinch and include #justapinchrecipes!