garlic

Garlic

Garlic, a pungent and flavorful bulb, is a staple in cuisines worldwide. Its distinct, strong aroma and sharp, savory taste transforms when cooked, becoming sweeter and more mellow. Fresh garlic bulbs consist of multiple cloves encased in a papery skin, ranging in color from white to purple. Whether minced, crushed, roasted, or infused in oil, garlic adds depth and complexity to countless dishes. Discover how to use fresh garlic cloves to enhance everything from simple pasta sauces to complex stews and roasted meats.

Common Uses

  • Use garlic to create a fragrant garlic-infused olive oil, perfect for drizzling over pasta, salads, or crusty bread. Gently heat crushed garlic cloves in olive oil over low heat until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic. Remove the garlic and store the infused oil in a sealed container.
  • Incorporate minced garlic into homemade pasta sauces to add a robust and savory base. Sauté the garlic in olive oil before adding tomatoes and other vegetables for a classic Italian flavor.
  • Roast whole garlic bulbs to create a sweet, mellow, and spreadable treat. Cut off the top of the bulb, drizzle with olive oil, wrap in foil, and bake until soft. Squeeze out the roasted garlic cloves and spread them on bread or crackers.
  • Add crushed or minced garlic to marinades for meats, poultry, and seafood to infuse them with flavor and tenderize the proteins. Combine garlic with herbs, spices, oil, and vinegar for a simple and effective marinade.
  • Enhance the flavor of stir-fries by adding minced garlic to the wok or pan at the beginning of the cooking process. Stir-fry the garlic briefly before adding other vegetables and proteins to create a fragrant and flavorful base.
  • Use garlic to make garlic bread. Mix minced garlic with softened butter, spread it on slices of bread, and bake or broil until golden brown and toasted. Add herbs like parsley or chives for extra flavor.

Nutrition (per serving)

Calories

4.5kcal (0.22%)

Protein

0.2g (0.4%)

Carbs

1.0g (0.36%)

Sugars

0.0g

Healthy Fat

0.0g

Unhealthy Fat

0.0g

% Daily Value based on a 2000 calorie diet

Health Benefits

  • Supports immune function with its allicin content.
  • May help reduce blood pressure and improve heart health.
  • Rich in antioxidants, fighting oxidative stress and inflammation.
  • Contains compounds that may lower cholesterol levels.
  • Can contribute to detoxification processes in the body.
  • Possesses potential antimicrobial and antifungal properties.

Storage Tips

Store garlic in a cool, dry, and dark place with good ventilation. A pantry or cupboard away from direct sunlight and heat is ideal. Avoid storing garlic in the refrigerator, as it can cause sprouting and a loss of flavor. Whole bulbs will last longer than individual cloves. If you have peeled cloves, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. You can also freeze minced garlic or garlic paste in small portions for longer storage.

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