Garlic is an indispensable ingredient in the kitchen. It is versatile and adds a lot of flavor when added to your sauces, meat, vegetables, etc. Garlic can be stored as bulbs or whole heads, in cloves or peeled. However, it is important to store it in a place where it will not sprout or become bitter.
Discover some tips on how to keep garlic fresh and flavorful for as long as possible without drying out.
How do you keep garlic fresh for as long as possible?
Garlic is often thought of as an herb, but it is actually a bulb with a strong taste. It is used in a wide variety of forms and preparations, sometimes for medicinal purposes. Fresh garlic is common in stores and gardens. Whether you buy it or grow it, you can make it last longer by storing it properly.
Garlic adds a unique aroma and flavor to many dishes. It is very important to store it properly so that it doesn’t lose its properties and deteriorate too quickly. Here are some practical tips to make your garlic last longer.
How to store fresh garlic?
Never put fresh garlic in the refrigerator for a long time, it will start to sprout. You can still eat it, but it will become bitter and less tasty.
Fresh garlic is best stored in a dry, dark place. Don’t put garlic in a drawer, put it in an airy place. Make sure you don’t put it in aluminum foil, paper bags will be much better.
How to store peeled garlic?
If you like to peel garlic and store it in this form, remember one rule: airtight packaging is essential. Store peeled garlic in the refrigerator for up to a week.
A good tip is to marinate garlic in olive oil. This will give you a flavored oil that you can also use later for frying.
How to freeze garlic?
In order for garlic cloves to retain all their benefits and properties, it is important to store them properly. Freezing it is a wise way to do so so as not to lose any of its benefits.
It is also a good idea to freeze excess garlic. Peel and separate all the garlic cloves, then spread them evenly on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Cover the baking sheet with foil and freeze overnight.
You can also freeze chopped garlic cloves. To make it easier to use later, do so in ice cube trays.
Tips for choosing fresh, tasty garlic
Choose good quality garlic (preferably organic) and to ensure its preservation, here are our tips:
– The bulb or head of garlic should be firm to the touch and not yield to light pressure.
– It should be firm, with a smooth, dry skin and have no signs of mold (black spots).
– If the bulb is soft, it is probably overripe and will not keep long
– If the garlic has sprouted, it is a clear sign that it is expired.
– Avoid buying frozen garlic at the supermarket.
So take the time to choose garlic carefully when you buy it and follow these tips to keep it fresh and tasty for as long as possible.
