I followed the instructions from the e-mail course at http://www.ChrisLewisMH.com for making garlic oil. They say you can make it by crushing garlic, pouring olive oil to cover it, then close the jar and leave in cool dark place for 2 weeks, shaking daily, then strain through a cloth. I've read elsewhere that making herbal oils in this way provides an ideal ground for bacteria to breed, especially botulism, and that the oil should be heated first. Does anyone know about this? Do any of you make garlic oil, and if so how?

Cold Infusion Method: Combine herbs and oil. Pureed herbs disperse their flavor more quickly but are not as aesthetically pleasing. Use with in 2-3 days. Store in the refrigerator at all times.

Warm Infusion Method: In a saucepan, combine herbs and oil. Heat to a simmer, reduce heat slightly and cook just below simmering for 15 minutes. Remove from heat and strain through several layers of cheesecloth into a sterilized glass jar. Label with the date and refrigeration instructions. Store in the refrigerator at all times. Use with in 1 week.

Oven Method: Place oil and chopped vegetable or herb in a 2 cup glass measuring cup. Set cup on a pie plate and place in a 150C oven for 1 hour. At the end of heating, the vegetable pieces should be a medium brown colour and crisp. If not, continue baking until they turn brown. Remove cup to a rack to cool for 30 minutes. Line a small strainer with a coffee filter or several layers of cheesecloth. Strain oil into a clean glass jar, cover and store in refrigerator at all times. Use within a month.