vitamin e oil blend

HOW TO MAKE GARLIC CONFIT RECIPE (GARLIC-INFUSED OIL)

Garlic confit is the perfect ingredient for dips, dressings, and so many other dishes! This easy recipe creates a rich, garlic-infused oil that enhances a wide range of cuisines. You can use it as is or turn it into garlic butter for an extra touch of flavor—either way, this recipe is a game-changer!

INGREDIENTS

Garlic Confit

  • 2 cups peeled garlic (pre-peeled from Sam’s works well)
  • 2 cups extra-virgin olive oil
  • 3 sprigs fresh thyme
  • 3-4 rosemary twigs
  • 1 tsp coarse salt

Garlic Herb Butter

  • 1/2 cup softened butter
  • 2-3 tbsp garlic confit (just the garlic, no oil)
  • 1 tbsp chopped parsley
  • 1 tbsp chopped rosemary
  • 1/2 tsp salt

INSTRUCTIONS

Garlic Confit

  • Preheat your oven to 275°F (135°C).
  • In a baking dish, combine the peeled garlic, olive oil, salt, rosemary, and thyme. Stir to coat the garlic evenly.
  • Place the dish in the oven and bake for 1 to 1.5 hours, stirring occasionally. The garlic should be soft and golden, not browned.
  • Remove from the oven and let it cool to room temperature. Discard the fresh herbs.
  • Transfer the garlic and oil to an airtight jar, ensuring the garlic is fully submerged in the oil. Seal and store in the refrigerator. The oil will solidify when chilled, so let it come to room temperature before use.
  • For freezing, transfer the confit into a freezer-safe container, leaving space for expansion. It will last a few months frozen.

Garlic Herb Butter

  • In a bowl, combine softened butter, garlic confit (without the oil), chopped parsley, rosemary, and salt. Mix well.
  • Transfer the herb butter to parchment paper, shaping it into a log or bowl. If shaping a log, roll it in parchment and twist the ends.
  • Refrigerate for at least an hour to firm up.
  • Slice into rounds or serve from the bowl. Store in the refrigerator for later use.

NOTES & TIPS

  • Storage: Always store garlic confit in the fridge to avoid the risk of botulism. Make sure all garlic cloves are fully submerged in oil for safety.
  • Add Spice: Red pepper flakes can add a zesty kick when serving.
  • Usage Ideas:
    • Garlic Bread: Spread mashed garlic on crusty bread and toast.
    • Pasta: Stir into pasta dishes for a rich, garlicky base.
    • Mashed Potatoes: Incorporate into mashed potatoes for extra flavor.
    • Dressings: Blend into salad dressings for a garlic-infused boost.
    • Roast Vegetables: Toss with vegetables before roasting for a savory touch.
    • Pizza: Use as a base for pizza before adding toppings.
    • Marinades: Add to marinades for meats or seafood.
    • Soups/Stews: Stir into soups or stews for extra depth.
    • Eggs: Mix into scrambled eggs, omelets, or frittatas.
    • Dips: Add to hummus or other dips for a punch of flavor.
    • Sandwiches/Wraps: Spread for extra richness.

STORAGE TIPS

  • Keep garlic confit in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2-3 weeks. Always ensure the garlic is covered in oil.
  • For freezing, store in a freezer-safe container with room to expand. Alternatively, freeze in ice cube trays for easy portioning.

Nutrition (per 2 tbsp serving)

  • Calories: 132 kcal
  • Carbohydrates: 3g
  • Protein: 1g
  • Fat: 14g
  • Saturated Fat: 2g
  • Monounsaturated Fat: 10g
  • Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g
  • Sodium: 74mg
  • Potassium: 35mg
  • Fiber: 0.2g
  • Sugar: 0.1g
  • Vitamin A: 5 IU
  • Vitamin C: 3mg
  • Calcium: 16mg
  • Iron: 0.2mg

CARROT AND COCONUT OIL FACE MASK

Have you ever considered blending carrots, adding a touch of coconut oil, and applying it as a face mask? If not, keep reading to discover how to create a nourishing carrot and coconut oil mask!

Carrots and coconut oil aren’t just great for eating—they’re packed with skin-loving nutrients that can work wonders on your complexion. Both of these natural ingredients are rich in vitamins and minerals, making them perfect for a DIY beauty treatment.

I’ll admit, the idea for this mask didn’t come from me originally. A few years ago, I had a conversation with one of my aunts, and she shared that she used steamed carrots mixed with coconut oil as a homemade facial mask. Curious, I tried it myself—and absolutely loved it! Since carrots and coconut oil are staples in my kitchen, it was super convenient to add this mask to my regular skincare routine.

Ingredients: 

How to make Carrot and Coconut Oil Face Mask

  • Chop the Carrot: Roughly chop the carrot into about 5 pieces.
  • Steam the Carrot: Bring about an inch of water to a boil in a saucepan. Add the chopped carrots, reduce the heat to low, cover, and steam for 8-10 minutes until soft.
  • Blend the Mixture: Drain the water and transfer the carrots to a food processor or blender. Add coconut oil and blend until smooth, creating a puree.
  • Apply the Mask: Gently apply the carrot and coconut oil mixture to your clean face, avoiding the eyes and mouth. Let the mask sit for 15-20 minutes.
  • Entertainment Break: While you wait, why not channel your inner character from The Simpsons? It’ll make the time pass more enjoyably. 🍩
  • Rinse Off: Wash your face with warm water, using a washcloth to gently remove any remaining bits.
  • Moisturize: If needed, apply a little coconut or olive oil for extra hydration.

    TIPS:

    • Sensitive Skin: If you have sensitive skin, do a patch test on a small area first to make sure you’re not allergic to any ingredients.
    • Storage: If you have leftovers, you can store the mixture in the fridge for a couple of days, but it’s best to use it fresh for maximum benefits.

    CONCLUSION

    In conclusion, the Carrot and Coconut Oil Face Mask is an easy and natural way to nourish and hydrate your skin. The combination of carrots, rich in beta-carotene and antioxidants, and coconut oil, known for its moisturizing properties, can help improve skin texture, promote a healthy glow, and provide deep hydration. This DIY mask is simple to make, using ingredients you may already have at home, and offers a gentle, affordable skincare treatment.

    For the best results, remember to follow up with your favorite moisturizer after rinsing off the mask to lock in all the nourishment. Whether you’re looking for a quick skin boost or a relaxing self-care session, this face mask is a great addition to your beauty routine!