There are two things we love in our house, well more than two, but these two are almost a daily necessity. garlic and olive oil! Over the years I have played with making our own garlic oil so that it plays off the flavors we like, and has a little heat to it as well. Now that I have a recipe we love I decided to share it!
Flavored olive oils are expensive, and like most things, much cheaper to make yourself. It's super easy and makes your home smell amazing while it is cooking!
First off, you need to start will good olive oil. California Ranch, Dellalo, Cento, and Graza are some of my favorites! Since olive oil is the base, it is important that it is an olive oil you like and would enjoy. Much like cooking with wine, it should be a wine you would drink the oil you choose would be one you would use regularly.
Next up, if you like garlic then you are going to love this because you are going to use a whole head of garlic! If you think that is a little too committal, start with half a head of garlic and gradually ease up to what suits your tastebuds. The remaining ingredients are shallots, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, red chili flake, and a couple of optional mix in's are dried parsley and black pepper.

Some might be surprised to see onion powder and garlic powder listed, but I am not sure there is a dish I make that I do not add this two even when I am using fresh onions and garlic. The powder forms of onion and garlic hit differently and just give a little bump to the flavors of any dish!
This garlic oil cooks low and slow, this will simmer on the stovetop for about 45 min. and you only need to stir this occasionally. You will just want to make sure when you are stirring you are scraping down the sides of your skillet. Once the garlic and shallots are tender and you are happy with the depth of flavor, turn your heat off and allow the garlic oil to cool. Store in an airtight container, in the fridge. We use this oil for everything from cooking our eggs, bread dipping, and topping on steaks and potatoes, but our favorite way is for pizza!



