Practical tips for preserving garlic at home
Pickled garlic is a great way to preserve the freshness and strong flavor of garlic throughout the year. Not only is it an excellent ingredient in many dishes, but it also has a number of health benefits. In this article, you will learn how to pickle garlic in various ways, including pickled garlic in oil and pickled garlic in vinegar. We will share tried-and-true recipes and tips for preserving garlic.
Why pickle garlic?
Pickled garlic is not only still tasty, but also very practical for further use. It has a longer shelf life than fresh garlic and is always ready to use. Moreover, pickled garlic becomes less pungent, which many people with sensitive stomachs appreciate. Garlic contains allicin, which has antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. Pickled garlic retains most of its health benefits, so you can enjoy not only its flavor but also its health advantages.
There are several ways to pickle garlic. Among the most popular are garlic pickled in oil or vinegar. As you will read below, each of these methods has its advantages and specifics.
Garlic pickled in oil
Garlic pickled in oil is an easy and quick way to pickle garlic and reliably preserve it. This method not only extends the shelf life of garlic but also ensures that the garlic remains soft and flavorful. This preservation method is ideal for anyone who wants to enjoy a milder taste of garlic without losing its typical aroma.
Recipe for garlic pickled in oil:
What you will need:
- 250 g of peeled garlic
- approximately 250 ml of extra virgin olive oil
- 1 teaspoon of quality salt
- Optional: 1 teaspoon of dried thyme and rosemary
Instructions:
- Place the garlic in a jar, add salt and herbs.
- Pour in the olive oil until the garlic is submerged.
- Seal the jar and place it in the refrigerator for 1-2 weeks.
Olive oil acts as a preservative while also imparting its characteristic pleasant flavor to the garlic. This makes pickled garlic in oil ideal for use in salads, marinades, or as a seasoning for roasted meats and vegetables.
Garlic pickled in vinegar
Garlic pickled in vinegar is another popular preservation method. Vinegar adds a mild acidity to the garlic while ensuring its long shelf life. This preservation method is great for lovers of bolder flavors and is ideal as a side dish to various meals or as an ingredient in salads and sauces.
Recipe for garlic pickled in vinegar:
What you will need:
- 250 g of peeled garlic
- 250 ml of white wine vinegar
- 1 teaspoon of sugar and salt
- 1 bay leaf
- Optional: 1 teaspoon of mustard seeds
Instructions:
- Place the garlic in a jar.
- In a pot, mix the vinegar, sugar, salt, and spices, and bring to a boil.
- Pour the brine over the garlic and seal the jar. Let it sit for 2 weeks.
Vinegar acts as a strong preservative that prevents the growth of bacteria and mold. Pickled garlic in vinegar is excellent for use in Asian dishes, where it adds a spicy and tangy touch.
Try our natural products
Other methods of preserving garlic
In addition to pickled garlic in oil and pickled garlic in vinegar, there are other ways to preserve garlic. These methods may include combinations of different ingredients and techniques that give garlic unique flavors and characteristics.
Canned garlic is a traditional method of preservation at high temperatures. This process requires more time and effort, but the result is long-lasting preservation. Canning is ideal for those who want to keep garlic for a longer time and have it always on hand.
What you will need:
- 500 g of peeled garlic
- 500 ml of water and vinegar (5%)
- 1 teaspoon of salt and sugar
Instructions:
- Place the garlic in jars.
- Mix the water, vinegar, salt, and sugar, and bring to a boil.
- Pour the brine over the garlic, seal, and sterilize in boiling water for 10 minutes.
Canning garlic is a proven way to ensure its long shelf life. This method is great for those who want to have garlic ready for immediate use, whether as a cooking ingredient or as a standalone delicacy.
Tasty and healthy garlic all year round
Pickled garlic is a great way to preserve the flavor and aroma of garlic throughout the year. Whether you prefer pickled garlic in oil, pickled garlic in vinegar, or other methods, all these recipes will allow you to enjoy garlic long after its harvest. Try different ways and find the one that suits you best. And remember, pickled garlic is not only tasty but also healthy, making it an ideal ingredient for your kitchen.