Confit of Kalamata Olives
Confit of Kalamata Olives Recipe from Greece
Introduction
Confit of Kalamata Olives is a delicious and savory dish that is perfect for serving as an appetizer or snack. The combination of briny olives, salty anchovies, and aromatic herbs creates a flavorful and satisfying dish that is sure to impress your guests.
History
The technique of confit, which involves cooking food slowly in fat at a low temperature, has been used for centuries as a method of preserving food. In the case of Confit of Kalamata Olives, this traditional cooking method is used to infuse the olives with the flavors of anchovies, garlic, and herbs.
Ingredients
- 1 cup of Pitted kalamata olives
- 4 fillets of anchovies
- 12 cloves of garlic slightly crushed with peel on
- 1 tbsp of kosher salt
- 1 tbsp of Freshly cracked black pepper
- 2 Sprigs of Fresh rosemary
- 2 tbsp of capers
- Extra virgin olive oil
How to prepare
- In a medium-sized casserole dish, combine kalamata olives, anchovies, garlic cloves (with peel on), salt, pepper, rosemary sprigs, and capers. Use enough extra virgin olive oil to cover the olive mixture.
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (177°C) and bake for 45 minutes.
- Serve with slices of baguette.
Variations
- Add sun-dried tomatoes or roasted red peppers for a different flavor profile.
- Substitute green olives for kalamata olives for a milder taste.
Cooking Tips & Tricks
Be sure to use high-quality extra virgin olive oil for the best flavor.
- Make sure to cover the olive mixture with enough oil to ensure that the olives are fully submerged during cooking.
- Serve the Confit of Kalamata Olives with crusty bread or crackers for a delicious appetizer.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Confit of Kalamata Olives as an appetizer with slices of baguette or crackers.
Cooking Techniques
The slow cooking technique used in this recipe helps to infuse the olives with the flavors of the anchovies, garlic, and herbs.
Ingredient Substitutions
If you don't have anchovies, you can substitute with a small amount of fish sauce for a similar umami flavor.
Make Ahead Tips
Confit of Kalamata Olives can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to a week.
Presentation Ideas
Serve Confit of Kalamata Olives in a small dish garnished with fresh herbs for a beautiful presentation.
Pairing Recommendations
Pair Confit of Kalamata Olives with a glass of dry white wine or a crisp rosé for a perfect appetizer pairing.
Storage and Reheating Instructions
Store Confit of Kalamata Olives in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. To reheat, simply bring to room temperature before serving.
Nutrition Information
Calories per serving
Each serving of Confit of Kalamata Olives contains approximately 120 calories.
Carbohydrates
Each serving of Confit of Kalamata Olives contains approximately 5 grams of carbohydrates.
Fats
Each serving of Confit of Kalamata Olives contains approximately 10 grams of fats.
Proteins
Each serving of Confit of Kalamata Olives contains approximately 2 grams of proteins.
Vitamins and minerals
Confit of Kalamata Olives is a good source of vitamin E, iron, and calcium.
Alergens
This recipe contains fish (anchovies) and may not be suitable for those with fish allergies.
Summary
Confit of Kalamata Olives is a flavorful and satisfying dish that is relatively low in carbohydrates and high in healthy fats.
Summary
Confit of Kalamata Olives is a delicious and savory dish that is perfect for serving as an appetizer or snack. The combination of briny olives, salty anchovies, and aromatic herbs creates a flavorful and satisfying dish that is sure to impress your guests.
How did I get this recipe?
The moment I discovered this recipe is a cherished memory that I hold close to my heart. It all began when I was on a trip to Greece many years ago, exploring the beautiful countryside and immersing myself in the rich culture and traditions of the Greek people. One sunny afternoon, I stumbled upon a quaint little taverna tucked away in a small village, where I had the most delicious meal of my life.
As I sat at the rustic wooden table, surrounded by the sounds of clinking plates and lively conversation, I savored each bite of the delectable dishes that were served to me. One dish, in particular, caught my attention - Confit of Kalamata Olives. The combination of the briny olives, fragrant herbs, and rich olive oil was like nothing I had ever tasted before.
I was determined to learn how to make this dish myself, so I struck up a conversation with the chef, a kind elderly woman with a twinkle in her eye and a wealth of culinary knowledge. She welcomed me into her kitchen and generously shared her recipe with me, passing down a tradition that had been in her family for generations.
To make Confit of Kalamata Olives, you will need a generous amount of Kalamata olives, preferably freshly harvested and brined in a mixture of water, vinegar, and salt. The olives should be pitted and drained before being placed in a large, heavy-bottomed pot.
Next, add a few cloves of garlic, thinly sliced, and a handful of fresh herbs such as rosemary, thyme, and oregano. Pour in enough olive oil to cover the olives completely, ensuring that they are well submerged in the fragrant liquid.
Bring the pot to a gentle simmer over low heat, allowing the olives to slowly cook and infuse with the flavors of the herbs and garlic. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure that the olives are evenly coated with the oil.
As the olives cook, the flavors will meld together, creating a rich and savory confit that is perfect for spreading on crusty bread or serving alongside roasted meats and vegetables. The aroma will fill your kitchen with a tantalizing scent that will have your mouth watering in anticipation.
After a few hours of simmering, the olives will be tender and bursting with flavor, ready to be enjoyed as a delicious and versatile condiment. Allow the confit to cool slightly before transferring it to a clean jar, where it can be stored in the refrigerator for several weeks.
I have made this Confit of Kalamata Olives many times since my trip to Greece, each time recalling the warm hospitality of the chef who shared her recipe with me. It has become a beloved staple in my kitchen, a reminder of the connections we forge through food and the joy of discovering new flavors and traditions.
I hope that you will also be inspired to try this recipe and perhaps create your own cherished memories around the table, sharing the gift of good food with those you love. Bon appétit!
Categories
| Anchovy Recipes | Greek Recipes | Olive Recipes | Spread Recipes |