Tips

The Ultimate Guide to Garlic Storage: Keep Your Cloves Fresh and Flavorful

"There's a simple way to keep garlic fresher for longer and prevent sprouting. A nifty trick that very few people know about, this method will ensure your garlic stays in top condition."

Administrator

9 September, 2024

Garlic is an indispensable spice in daily meals. Many people who don’t want to spend time buying garlic regularly tend to buy a large amount to consume gradually. However, in a humid climate, garlic easily sprouts. Although garlic sprouts are not harmful to health and can even be beneficial, the bulbs lose their nutritional value. At this point, the garlic cloves are no longer tasty. Therefore, garlic farmers have shared a little-known tip to preserve garlic.

So, what is this secret tip? Let’s find out below:

Firstly, when buying garlic, choose firm bulbs that feel heavy for their size. Discard shriveled, moldy, or sprouted cloves. Sprouted garlic has lost much of its nutrition as the energy is diverted to the sprout. Moreover, sprouted garlic cloves are less aromatic, with larger, softer, and less crisp interiors. Hence, it is best to avoid purchasing them.

Additionally, refrain from buying “open-mouth” garlic bulbs. While they are convenient for peeling, preserving this type of garlic can be challenging. Garlic bulbs with tight skins are less prone to oxidation when exposed to air, allowing for longer storage. In contrast, “open-mouth” garlic, if purchased, should be consumed as soon as possible, as it is more susceptible to mold and deterioration over time.

Now, let’s move on to the preservation process.

Start by thoroughly cleaning a pan and placing it on the stove to dry. Then, add an appropriate amount of salt and roast it over low heat until the salt is completely dry. Turn off the heat and allow the salt to cool. Once cooled, place the salt in a clean cloth bag or wrap it in paper towels. Put this salt packet into the plastic bag containing the garlic, and securely tie the bag closed. Store the garlic in a dry, well-ventilated, and cool area.

Each time you need to use garlic, take out the required amount, let it air for a moment, and then reseal the bag. With this preservation method, your garlic will last longer without sprouting. Roasted salt acts as a desiccant, preventing sprouting as long as the garlic is not exposed to moisture. Additionally, salt has antiseptic properties, inhibiting rot and withering.

Apart from using roasted salt, there are a few other garlic preservation methods you can consider:

Using Ginger: Cut a few slices of ginger and place them in a small mesh bag. Then, put this bag into the garlic bag and tie it closed. Ginger inhibits bacterial growth, preventing garlic from sprouting or drying out.

Using Cigarettes: Place the garlic in a freshness-preserving bag and add two cigarettes. The nicotine in cigarettes hinders the growth of garlic. Moreover, cigarettes absorb moisture. Store the garlic bag in the refrigerator after sealing it tightly, and your garlic should last for a year. This preservation method is simple yet unexpected.

Using Glass Jars: After selecting healthy garlic bulbs, place them all into a glass jar with a lid or a ceramic jar. Tightly close the lid and store the jar in a cool, ventilated area. This method will keep your garlic from spoiling for a year.

Hanging Garlic: Put garlic into mesh bags and hang them in a well-ventilated area. This simple and practical method helps prevent moisture and mold.

Source: Thoidaiplus

Frequently asked questions

Storing garlic in a cool, dry place in a breathable container, such as a paper bag, is ideal. Avoid plastic bags as they can trap moisture and cause spoilage. Keep garlic away from direct sunlight and heat sources, and do not refrigerate whole garlic bulbs as this can introduce moisture and reduce shelf life.

For long-term storage, braided garlic is a traditional method that can last up to a year. Plait the garlic stems together and hang the braid in a cool, dry place with good air circulation. Another method is to pickle garlic cloves in a brine solution, which can be stored in the refrigerator for several months.

Yes, freezing garlic is a convenient way to store it long-term. Chop or crush the garlic cloves, then place them in ice cube trays filled with olive oil or water. Once frozen, transfer the cubes to a freezer-safe bag. Frozen garlic will last for several months and can be added directly to dishes when cooking.

Fresh, whole garlic bulbs can last up to two months when stored properly. However, once cloves are broken off from the bulb, their shelf life decreases to about three weeks. Peeled or crushed garlic has a much shorter shelf life, usually only lasting a few days before spoiling.

Garlic that has sprouted, developed mold, or become shriveled and dry should be discarded. Spoiled garlic may also have a strong, unpleasant odor and a bitter taste. Fresh garlic should have a firm texture and a mild, pungent aroma.