Garlic is notorious for sprouting, but did you know that it’s still safe to eat? While the sprouting process doesn’t harm your health, it does affect the taste as the cloves shrink and become less flavorful. To maintain the freshness and flavor of garlic, try out these four storage methods that can keep it lasting for months or even a year.
1. Store whole garlic bulbs at room temperature
When purchasing garlic, opt for firm and dry bulbs. Store garlic in a cool, dark place with low to moderate humidity and good air circulation. The ideal temperature for storing garlic is between 60-65 degrees F (15.5 – 18.3 degrees C).
You can use anything with ventilation holes, such as mesh or paper bags, but avoid plastic bags. Under these conditions, garlic can stay fresh for up to six months.
2. Store peeled garlic cloves in an airtight container in the fridge
Storing whole garlic bulbs in the refrigerator is not recommended as it can cause the garlic to spoil faster and develop mold. However, you can store peeled garlic cloves in an airtight container in the fridge.
This method will keep the garlic fresh for about three weeks. If your garlic sprouts, it’s still edible, but the flavor will be altered. If you don’t want to eat sprouted garlic, you can plant it in soil, and it will grow into a new plant.
3. Freeze garlic in a ziploc bag
You can also freeze peeled and crushed, chopped, sliced, or minced garlic in a ziploc bag. Place the bag in your freezer and label it with the current date. This method will keep garlic fresh for up to a year, although the texture will soften upon thawing. The flavor will remain intact, and you can use it in any cooked dish.
4. Preserve garlic in vegetable oil
Place peeled and crushed, chopped, sliced, or minced garlic in an ice cube tray and cover it with vegetable oil. Freeze this tray, and you’ll have fresh garlic for up to four months. When you need to use it, simply take out a cube and drop it into your pan for a quick flavor boost.
Good luck with your garlic storage endeavors!
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