Want to know how to freeze garlic? Keep reading! This is the easiest and best way for perfect frozen garlic cloves in no time!
If you just got 12 heads of garlic instead of 6 just because it was on a grocery sale this weekend, there are high chances that the garlic might start to stink anytime soon!
Freezing the garlic is an incredible lifesaver technique that will help preserve the garlic and keep it fresh for weeks effortlessly! So let’s check out how you can freeze your garlic today!
Can you freeze garlic?
Yes, Undoubtedly! You can freeze garlic!
Garlic is a versatile ingredient and is an absolute necessity to add that kick of spice to every dish, especially Lebanese and American dishes! Thus, you will need garlic almost every day!
Freezing garlic in bulk will save you a lot of time and effort!
It is quite a tedious process to peel, chop, mince, or press the garlic every time for your dishes. Instead, you can do them in bulk and freeze them for at least 3-4 months! This way, you will always have readymade fresh garlic handy to throw in the recipes!
And the flavor remains just as fresh as new!
How to freeze garlic? [Step by Step]
Here is a step-by-step guide on how you can freeze garlic.
To freeze garlic puree:
Ingredients:
- 12 fresh garlic cloves
- 1 tablespoon of oil(optional)
- 1 teaspoon of salt(optional)
Instructions:
Step 1: Peel the garlic and add them into a high-speed blender or a food processor.
Step 2: Blend them to a paste. Use the pulse option if required.
Step 3: Add the oil and salt to the paste and give another mix.
Step 4: Pick up one teaspoon of garlic paste, add it to an ice cube tray, or create small mounds and place it on a cookie tray.
Step 5: Cover the paste with a thin film to avoid freezer burn or ice settling on the top.
Step 6: Freeze the garlic paste until semi-solid.
Step 7: Transfer the cubes or mounds to a freezer-safe bag or container and place it inside the fridge.
Note: Freeze the garlic paste as soon as you add the oil to the mixture. This will prevent the risk of botulism to the paste.
To freeze whole garlic bulbs or cloves (peeled or unpeeled):
Ingredients:
- 12 garlic cloves or one garlic bulb
Instructions:
Step 1: Clean the entire clove or bulb of the garlic properly and let the water air dry.
Step 2: Transfer the bulb or the cloves to a freezer-safe bag or container.
FAQs about freezing garlic
Will there be any difference in the garlic texture after freezing?
Yes. Partly. The garlic might get slightly slimy if you are freezing it as a paste. Nonetheless, the taste and the flavor remain unchanged!
Is thawing the garlic necessary before cooking?
No. Thawing is not necessary for frozen garlic. But thawing can enhance the flavor of the frozen garlic cloves or bulbs before adding it to your dish.
Which is better? Homemade frozen garlic or jarred garlic available at the store?
Frozen garlic is completely organic. Hence, it is a much better option than the jarred garlic, which might have extra preservatives added to it.
Implements and equipment you need to freeze garlic
To freeze garlic puree, you will need:
- Knife.
- High-speed blender or food processor.
- Cube tray or cookie tray.
- Plastic film.
To freeze garlic cloves or one garlic bulb you will need:
- Plastic bags.
How to thaw garlic?
If you want to thaw the frozen garlic, add them to a bowl, place that bowl on another bowl filled with warm water, and wait for a few minutes. Do not heat it directly on the flame. Instead, add it to the warm water immediately after taking it out of the freezer.
What can you make with frozen garlic?
The good thing about frozen garlic is that you can use it the same way you use fresh garlic.
So you just incorporate it by following the instructions in the recipe.
If you want some recipe ideas, you can prepare this delicious Vegan Pumpkin Soup to warm your soul and perfect for your Meatless Monday.
What about garlic bread? Just toast one or two bread slices, spread a mix of butter and frozen garlic, and you will have the perfect match for any dish.
You can use frozen garlic to prepare pesto and use it for a super easy and quick pasta dinner or season chicken or fish.
Tried out this technique of freezing garlic? Then, comment below and share with our readers how it tasted with your next dish!
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