Garlic is an essential ingredient in many cuisines, offering unique flavor and health benefits. However, to reap its culinary and medicinal benefits, it is crucial to store it properly. Experienced cooks know a tested method for keeping garlic intact for more than a year. In this article, we will guide you through this simple and effective preservation method.
Preserving Garlic: Loss of Value or Not?
A question that naturally arises is whether garlic really retains its nutritional value and taste when stored in this way. The answer is yes, with some nuances. Although garlic preserved this way is not as crunchy as fresh garlic, it retains much of its taste and health benefits. However, it is essential to note that the quality of conservation depends largely on compliance with the preparation, sterilization and storage steps.
By following this method described below, you can store garlic so that it remains intact and usable for a year. It should be noted that the texture of garlic may change slightly, but its taste and properties remain largely intact. For many people, it’s a worthwhile compromise to have garlic on hand throughout the year, without worrying about it going bad.
Ingredients and Materials needed:
500 grams of garlic cloves
Lukewarm water
Coarse salt (around 30 grams, or two tablespoons)
Apple cider vinegar or wine vinegar
A sterilized glass jar with a tight-fitting lid
A slice of lemon
Steps to Keep Garlic Intact:
Here are the steps for keeping garlic intact presented in continuous paragraphs:
To keep garlic intact for a full year, follow this proven storage method.
You’ll need half a kilo of garlic cloves to start. Soak these garlic cloves in lukewarm water for about an hour. Once they have been soaked, dry them thoroughly. You will notice that the outer skin of the pods has softened, making them easier to peel.
Next, sterilize a glass jar with a tight-fitting lid to ensure preservation quality. You can do this by submerging the jar in boiling water for a few minutes.
Then place all the peeled garlic cloves in the sterilized glass jar. To improve preservation, add two tablespoons of coarse salt, approximately 30 grams, directly to the garlic cloves.
Additionally, pour a few tablespoons of apple cider vinegar. These ingredients play a vital role in preserving garlic.
Finally, to perfect the preservation method, cut a slice of lemon and place it on top of the garlic in the glass jar. Make sure to seal the jar tightly, then shake it gently so that the salt, vinegar, and lemon mix well among the garlic cloves.
Garlic is a valuable spice, both for its taste and for its health benefits. With the proper preservation method, you can extend its life without sacrificing its essential qualities. So, try this method and make sure you have fresh garlic even after long months of storage. It’s a cooking tip that can make your life easier and improve your dishes.