Jul 14 2026
Restaurants›il Buco›Garlic Spread. Recipe

Garlic Spread. Recipe

Inspired by il Buco
Time2h 30m
Serves1

Housemade pickled garlic, Calabrian chili, bonito flakes, in a 3oz. jar.

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Ingredients

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Pickled Garlic

Garlic Spread

Method

Pickling the Garlic

  1. 1

    Prepare the Pickling Brine

    In a medium saucepan, combine the white vinegar, water, sugar, salt, black peppercorns, and bay leaves. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, stirring occasionally until the sugar and salt dissolve.

  2. 2

    Prepare the Garlic

    Meanwhile, peel the garlic cloves and place them in a clean jar.

  3. 3

    Combine and Pickle

    Once the brine is boiling, carefully pour it over the garlic cloves in the jar. Ensure that the garlic is fully submerged in the liquid. Allow the mixture to cool to room temperature before sealing the jar. Refrigerate for at least 24 hours before using but preferably for 1 week to enhance the flavors.

Making the Garlic Spread

  1. 4

    Prepare the Spread

    After the pickled garlic has marinated, take 5 cloves out of the jar and chop them finely.

  2. 5

    Combine Ingredients

    In a mixing bowl, combine the chopped pickled garlic, Calabrian chili paste, bonito flakes, and extra virgin olive oil. Mix well until all ingredients are thoroughly combined.

  3. 6

    Adjust Taste

    Taste the mixture and adjust seasoning if necessary. You can add more chili paste for extra heat or more olive oil for a creamier texture.

  4. 7

    Store the Spread

    Transfer the garlic spread into a clean 3oz jar and seal tightly. Store in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.

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