Garlic is an indispensable ally in the kitchen, especially during winter months when its health-boosting properties become crucial for warding off seasonal flu. Its importance transcends culinary uses, extending to overall well-being. The challenge, however, lies in preserving its freshness. Fortunately, there’s a lesser-known kitchen trick that allows you to keep garlic in pristine condition for at least a year. Let’s delve into this method, embraced by experienced cooks for ensuring garlic remains intact and ready for use.
Preserving Garlic: The Method
This technique involves a few simple steps and accessible ingredients, guaranteeing that your garlic stays fresh without spoiling.
What You’ll Need:
Half a kilo of garlic cloves
Lukewarm water
Two tablespoons of coarse salt (approximately 30 grams)
Apple cider vinegar or wine vinegar
A slice of lemon
A sterilized glass jar
Steps to Preserve Garlic:
Soak the Garlic: Begin by soaking the garlic cloves in lukewarm water for about an hour. This softens the skins, making them easier to peel.
Peel the Garlic: After drying the cloves, peel them. You’ll notice the skins come off easily due to the soaking.
Prepare the Jar: Place the peeled garlic cloves in your sterilized glass jar.
Add Salt and Vinegar: Sprinkle the coarse salt over the garlic cloves, then add a few tablespoons of apple cider vinegar or wine vinegar. The vinegar not only helps preserve the garlic but also keeps it intact.
Add Water and Lemon: Boil some water and let it cool. Before sealing the jar, place a slice of lemon on top of the garlic. The lemon acts as an additional preservative and adds a subtle flavor.
Seal and Shake: Close the jar tightly and give it a good shake to ensure the ingredients mix well.
With this method, your garlic cloves will stay fresh for over a year, eliminating the need to peel them each time they’re required in cooking. This practical, effective trick is a game-changer for anyone looking to maintain a stock of fresh garlic for culinary and health purposes. Try it and enjoy the convenience of having fresh garlic at your fingertips whenever you need it.
