Roasted Garlic Velvet Spread

1. Prepare the Garlic

Separate the garlic cloves from 2 heads of garlic and peel them carefully. If you find any green sprouts inside, cut the cloves in half and remove the germ. This will ensure your spread has a smooth, mellow flavor without any bitterness.

2. Cook the Garlic

Place the peeled garlic cloves into a small heavy saucepan. Pour in ¾ cup of chicken broth or water, then add 1½ tablespoons of either butter or olive oil, depending on your preference. Drop in 2 to 3 sprigs of thyme or savory and sprinkle a pinch of salt over everything.

3. Simmer the Garlic

Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Cover the saucepan and let it cook for about 10 to 15 minutes, until the garlic is very tender. The gentle simmering helps the garlic soften and meld with the flavors of the broth and herbs.

4. Mash the Garlic

Once the garlic is tender, drain it, but make sure to reserve the cooking liquid. You'll need this later to achieve the perfect consistency. Mash the garlic thoroughly, or if you prefer a smoother texture, pass it through a food mill. Gradually add the reserved cooking liquid to the mashed garlic until you reach the desired velvety texture.