Step 1: Prepare the Garlic
- Preheat the Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 5 minutes.
- Prepare the Garlic Bulb: Peel away any loose outer layers from the garlic bulb, leaving the skins on the individual cloves intact. Cut off the top of the garlic bulb (about 1/4 inch) to expose the tops of the cloves.
Step 2: Season the Garlic
- Drizzle with Olive Oil: Place the garlic bulb on a piece of aluminum foil. Drizzle the exposed cloves with olive oil.
- Season: Sprinkle with salt and black pepper. If using fresh herbs, add them around the garlic bulb for extra flavor.
- Wrap in Foil: Wrap the garlic bulb tightly in the aluminum foil to create a sealed packet.
Step 3: Air Fry the Garlic
- Place in Air Fryer: Place the wrapped garlic bulb in the air fryer basket.
- Cook: Air fry at 400°F (200°C) for 15-20 minutes. The garlic is done when the cloves are soft and caramelized. Check for doneness by gently squeezing the bulb; it should give easily.
Step 4: Serve and Enjoy
- Cool: Allow the garlic to cool slightly before unwrapping.
- Extract the Cloves: Use a small fork or knife to gently squeeze the roasted cloves out of their skins. They should come out easily.
- Serve: Use the roasted garlic as a spread on bread, mix it into mashed potatoes, add it to soups, or use it to enhance the flavor of various dishes.
Tips and Variations
- Flavor Variations: Experiment with different herbs or add a splash of balsamic vinegar to the olive oil for a unique flavor twist.
- Storage: Store leftover roasted garlic in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. You can also freeze it in small portions for longer storage.
- Creamy Garlic Spread: Mash the roasted garlic with a bit of butter or cream cheese for a delicious garlic spread.
Nutritional Information
Each serving (1 clove of roasted garlic) provides approximately:
- Calories: 4
- Protein: 0g
- Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 1g
- Fiber: 0g
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 0mg
Conclusion
Air fryer roasted garlic is a simple yet flavorful addition to your cooking repertoire. The air fryer makes it easy to achieve perfectly roasted garlic with minimal fuss, delivering a rich, savory flavor that’s versatile enough to complement a wide range of dishes. Enjoy the deep, caramelized taste of roasted garlic in your meals and savor the convenience of this quick preparation method.