As a mom of three, I am always busy in the kitchen. I like to have a supply of ingredients at home so I do not have to go running into the grocery store every so often to get what I need. I have always wanted to store garlic cloves at home because I use them so much on my cooking. Is there any possible way that I can store and preserve a supply of garlic?
There is certainly no such thing as too much garlic for garlic lovers. Garlic is extremely versatile and can be used for a lot of different delicacies. Because of this, it is only obvious that so many homemakers would like to have a supply stored at home.
The best way to store garlic is by freezing it. Freezing garlic is seen not only by experienced homemakers but also by professional chefs as the best way to store garlic for future use. If successful, your garlic supply can last for a year.
Can You Freeze Garlic?
Garlic is usually frozen by professionals because they buy so much of it in one day and most end up being unused. It is also good to have some in store since the price of garlic tends to change.
Garlic can be frozen for up to a year and there would not be any significant changes to its texture and quality. The garlic cloves will remain as delicious and as usable as ever even if they have been in the freezer for a long time.
The only difference in quality that you will notice with frozen garlic is that it is not as crunchy as fresh garlic. However, when it comes to flavor, you will notice little change.
There are several methods in freezing garlic. It can be done with chopped, peeled, or even unpeeled bulbs. Different types of processed garlic can even be stored so you have all types of garlic ready for whatever you are preparing.
Another method of storing garlic is by storing it in oil. However, this is not recommended by trained chefs as there will always be a chance that you can contract botulism if the garlic is stored for too long.
The process of thawing garlic after being frozen is just as easy as using it. Simply running it in cool water and letting it sit for fifteen minutes will make your garlic immediately ready for use.
How to Freeze Garlic?
Here are the steps you need to follow in order to freeze garlic:
- If you plan on freezing entire garlic heads, the first thing you do is wrap them in plastic or vegetable wrap.
- Put the wrapped garlic in a plastic container or a freezer bag.
If you want to preserve crushed or chopped garlic, here are the steps you should follow:
- Consider how you want to prepare your garlic, then prepare them in whichever way you wish (by crushing, chopping, etc.)
- Wrap your garlic in plastic foil.
- Put the foil in a plastic container or a freezer bag.
How To Use Up Extra/Leftover Garlic?
Garlic is a delicious and versatile ingredient that can be used in a variety of dishes. But what do you do when you have extra garlic? Here are five delicious ways to use up your leftover garlic:
- Make roasted garlic – Roasted garlic is a great way to add flavor to any dish. Simply place whole cloves of garlic on a baking sheet and roast in a preheated oven at 400 degrees for 15-20 minutes. Once roasted, the garlic will be soft and spreadable. You can use it as a condiment for bread, meats, or vegetables.
- Make garlic bread – Garlic bread is a classic dish that is easy to make and always delicious. To make garlic bread, simply spread some roasted garlic on a piece of bread and toast in a preheated oven until the bread is crispy.
- Make garlic mashed potatoes – Garlic mashed potatoes are a delicious and easy side dish. To make them, simply boil some potatoes and mash them with roasted garlic, butter, milk, and salt to taste.
- Make garlic roasted vegetables – Garlic roasted vegetables are a healthy and flavorful way to use up your leftover garlic. Simply chop up some vegetables, toss with olive oil and garlic, and roast in a preheated oven at 400 degrees for 20-30 minutes.
- Make garlic flavored oil – Garlic flavored oil can be used to add flavor to any dish. To make it, simply combine garlic cloves and olive oil in a blender and blend until smooth. Store the oil in a jar and use as needed.
So there you have it – five delicious ways to use up your leftover garlic. Next time you find yourself with extra garlic, try one of these recipes and enjoy!
Garlic Recipes
A great way to appreciate garlic is by making a delicious dip with your supply by following the recipe in this video:
You can also create mayonnaise with garlic by following the instructions in this video:
Finally, you can also enhance your usual fried chicken with garlic by following the recipe in this video:
Wrap Up
Yes, you can freeze garlic. Freezing garlic is a great way to preserve it for future use. All you have to do is remove the cloves from the bulb, peel them and chop if needed, put them in a freezer bag, seal it tightly and store them in your freezer. They will keep up to six months. You can also chop and freeze raw garlic in oil for future use. Just remember to leave enough room inside the bag before sealing. Label your freezer bag with the date before storing it in your freezer.
Are you planning to freeze garlic? Share with me in the comment below. I am always looking to hear from my readers.