Foraging for wild food has become increasingly popular in recent years and this Wild Garlic Oil Recipe celebrates that. With many people seeking to reconnect with nature and discover the flavors that can be found in their own backyard. One such treasure that nature provides is wild garlic, a plant that not only adds a burst of flavor to dishes but also offers numerous health benefits. In this article, I will guide you through the process of making your own wild garlic oil, an aromatic and versatile condiment that will elevate your culinary creations to new heights.
Recipe Ingredients
To make your own wild garlic oil, you will need the following ingredients:
- 2 cups of extra virgin olive oil
- 2 cups of freshly picked wild garlic leaves
- Sea salt (to taste)
- Pepper (to taste)
It is important to note that wild garlic leaves should be carefully identified to ensure you are picking the correct plant. Wild garlic has broad, lance-shaped leaves and a distinct garlic aroma. If you are unsure, consult a reliable foraging guide or join a local foraging group for assistance.
Recipe Method for Making Wild Garlic Oil
- Start by thoroughly washing and drying the wild garlic leaves. Removing any dirt or debris will ensure a clean and flavorful oil.
- Once clean, roughly chop the wild garlic leaves into small pieces. This will help release their aromatic oils during the infusion process.
- In a medium-sized saucepan, heat some water.
- Add the chopped wild garlic leaves to the hot water for about 20 seconds to blanch them.
- After 20 second, remove the leaves from the saucepan and dunk in ice cold water (this keeps the flavour and the bright green colour.
- Dab the leave in kitchen roll to dry a little.
- Once dried a little mix it with the oil and blend until smooth.
You can use it chunky like this or make it fine by following the below steps…
- Strain the oil through a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth to remove any solids. Transfer the infused oil to a sterilized glass jar or bottle.
- Season the wild garlic oil with sea salt and pepper to taste.
- Store the wild garlic oil in the fridge and aim to use it within the first 2 weeks.
Further Uses and Ideas for our Wild Garlic Oil
Now that you have your homemade wild garlic oil, let’s explore some of the amazing ways you can incorporate it into your cooking:
1. Drizzle it over salads
Wild garlic oil adds a delightful twist to your favorite salads. Its fresh and garlicky flavor pairs perfectly with crisp greens and can turn a simple salad into a culinary masterpiece. Try drizzling it over a mix of fresh lettuce, cherry tomatoes, and shaved Parmesan cheese for a burst of flavor that will leave your taste buds dancing.
2. Use it as a marinade
Infusing your meats, poultry, or even vegetables with wild garlic oil before grilling or roasting can take them to a whole new level. The oil’s rich flavor will permeate the ingredients, resulting in a deliciously aromatic dish that will impress your family and friends.
3. Enhance your pasta dishes
Tossing your cooked pasta with a generous amount of wild garlic oil can transform a simple dish into a gourmet delight. Add some sautéed mushrooms, grated Parmesan cheese, and a sprinkle of fresh herbs for a quick and flavorful meal that will leave you craving more.
4. Create flavorful dressings and dips
Wild garlic oil can be the star ingredient in homemade dressings and dips. Combine it with a bit of lemon juice, Dijon mustard, and honey for a tangy vinaigrette. Alternatively, mix it with Greek yogurt, chopped fresh herbs, and a pinch of salt for a creamy and flavorful dip that pairs perfectly with crudités.
Check out this Wild Garlic Hummus dip you could use the Wild Garlic Oil in
Now that you know how to make your own wild garlic oil and have discovered some creative ways to use it, it’s time to unleash your culinary creativity and savor the flavors of nature’s bounty.
Unleash the flavor and start foraging for wild garlic today!