This elegant yet simple appetizer transforms sharp raw garlic into sweet, mellow, spreadable cloves through slow roasting. The addition of fresh thyme and chicken stock infuses the garlic with aromatic depth, while the serving suggestion of creamy goat cheese and toasted sourdough adds a rich, tangy contrast. It is an effortless way to elevate a casual gathering, offering a sophisticated taste that pairs beautifully with wine or as a starter before a main course. The soft, jam-like texture of the garlic is irresistible, making this a crowd-pleaser that requires minimal effort but delivers maximum flavor impact.
Roasted Garlic With Fresh Thyme & Goat Cheese
Description
This elegant yet simple appetizer transforms sharp raw garlic into sweet, mellow, spreadable cloves through slow roasting. The addition of fresh thyme and chicken stock infuses the garlic with aromatic depth, while the serving suggestion of creamy goat cheese and toasted sourdough adds a rich, tangy contrast. It is an effortless way to elevate a casual gathering, offering a sophisticated taste that pairs beautifully with wine or as a starter before a main course. The soft, jam-like texture of the garlic is irresistible, making this a crowd-pleaser that requires minimal effort but delivers maximum flavor impact.Ingredients
Directions
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Preheat oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit (204&# 194;°C).
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With a sharp knife, cut off and discard the upper third of each garlic head to expose the cloves, leaving the skin intact below the cut.
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Place the garlic heads cut-side up in a small baking dish large enough to hold them snugly.
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Pour chicken stock over the garlic, add 8 to 10 sprigs of fresh thyme, and season lightly with salt and freshly ground black pepper.
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Cover the dish tightly with heavy-duty aluminum foil.
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Bake for 1 hour, or until each clove is soft to the touch and the skin resembles lightly browned parchment.
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Serve the garlic warm with the cooking juices spooned over, alongside a log of creamy goat cheese and slices of lightly toasted sourdough or peasant bread.
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To eat, spread a small amount of goat cheese on a piece of bread, then scoop out the soft garlic puree from the cloves and spread on top.
Nutrition Facts
Servings 4
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 223.5kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 0.8g2%
- Saturated Fat 0.2g1%
- Cholesterol 0.0mg0%
- Sodium 25.5mg2%
- Total Carbohydrate 49.5g17%
- Dietary Fiber 3.2g13%
- Sugars 1.5g
- Protein 9.6g20%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Note
Storage: Leftover roasted garlic can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. The flavor intensifies as it sits.
Substitutions: For a vegetarian version, substitute vegetable broth for the chicken stock. If you cannot find fresh thyme, you may use 1 teaspoon of dried thyme, though fresh provides a better aroma.
Tip: Ensure the foil is sealed tightly to create steam, which helps soften the garlic cloves evenly. If the garlic browns too quickly, reduce the oven temperature to 375 degrees.
Variation: Drizzle a little olive oil over the garlic before roasting for added richness, or sprinkle with sea salt flakes before serving.
