Garlic in honey tastes sweet, rich, and umami, with a softened garlic flavor that is much less pungent and acrid than raw garlic.
The process of infusing garlic in honey transforms both ingredients. Over time, the enzymes in the garlic and honey interact, causing the garlic cloves to soften and brown. This transformation mellows the garlic's harshness, resulting in a complex and appealing flavor profile.
Here's a breakdown of the taste:
- Sweetness: The honey provides a noticeable sweetness, which balances the garlic's savory notes.
- Richness: The combination of honey and garlic creates a depth of flavor that is both satisfying and complex.
- Umami: This savory, "meaty" flavor enhances the overall taste experience, making it moreish.
- Mellowed Garlic: The garlic's pungent and sharp bite is significantly reduced, leaving a subtle garlic essence. The texture also changes, becoming softer and more pliable.
Many compare the resulting flavor of garlic confit in honey to a sweet and savory candy. The cloves become amber-colored and offer a unique taste experience that's far from the intense flavor of raw garlic.
