What is Garlic and how to use it?
Garlic (Allium sativum) is a pungent, bulbous, green-colored member of the onion family. It is well known as one of the most important ingredients in Indian & Italian cooking. In addition, garlic is used in Asian cooking as a condiment and ingredient. It is most commonly used whole, although it may be chopped, crushed, chopped into strips, or minced. In this article, we dive deeper into what is garlic and it’s uses.
The bulbs are harvested when they have reached their prime size and are free from disease; however, some varieties can be left on the vine until late fall for harvesting throughout winter. In early spring, garlic grows best in full sun with high humidity. Planting time varies depending upon location, but generally begins around March 1st. After planting, give the soil plenty of water until plants begin growing. Harvest mature garlic after about five months. To harvest, cut off the top third of each clove, leaving only the root intact. Remove loose outer layers before storing garlic in plastic bags in your refrigerator. Once stored, use within three weeks.
Health Benefits of Garlic
Garlic possesses many health benefits.
It has been cultivated since antiquity. Ancient Egyptians ate raw garlic to prevent intestinal parasites. Greeks and Romans also valued garlic’s medicinal properties, which included its ability to treat skin diseases such as eczema.
During medieval times, It was used as an antidote against poison by placing pieces under the tongue. Today, It is still considered a natural medicine because of its antibacterial, antiviral, antifungal, and antiemetic effects.
It helps lower cholesterol levels while reducing bad breath caused by bacteria called halitosis. Garlic juice taken internally reduces inflammation associated with arthritis, gout, and other conditions.
Eating garlic improves immune function. Some researchers suggest that garlic inhibits cancer cell growth. However, there is no evidence linking garlic consumption to any adverse side effects.
It is a rich source of vitamin C and contains trace amounts of vitamins B1 and B6. A study published in the Journal of Medicinal Food found that eating just two cloves of garlic per day reduced blood pressure significantly.
How to Store Garlic
Store whole garlic bulbs in a cool dark pantry away from light; refrigerate chopped garlic. Refrigerated garlic keeps up to six months.
How to Use Garlic
Use fresh garlic whenever possible so you will get all of the nutrients available in the plant. Cooked garlic loses much of its flavor and nutritional value.
It has long been used as a seasoning for meat dishes. Its strong taste makes it perfect for adding zest to soups, stews, sauces, gravies, and marinades. Try mixing minced garlic into mashed potatoes or steamed vegetables. Use whole garlic bulbs instead of chopping them in order to preserve maximum nutrition. You can even add shredded garlic leaves to salad dressings.
There are literally thousands of ways in which you can use garlic. For example:
- Add chopped garlic to pasta, rice, soup, salads, sautéed veggies, and sandwiches.
- Add chopped garlic to bread dough.
- Mix chopped garlic and parsley in a vinaigrette dressing.
- Sprinkle chopped garlic onto grilled chicken.
- Sauté pork chops in a small amount of oil in a skillet, sprinkling in some crushed garlic cloves.
- Make garlic pesto by blending chopped garlic, basil, Parmesan cheese, pine nuts, and olive oil together in a food processor or blender.
- Make garlic mayonnaise by combining chopped garlic, lemon juice, and Dijon mustard in a bowl. Add a little water, and blend well.
For more on how to use Garlic, check out our recipes section.
FAQs – What is Garlic
What is Garlic and How is it Used in Cooking?
It is a type of bulb vegetable that is widely used in cooking and as a natural remedy for various health conditions. It has a pungent, distinctive aroma and a strong, sharp taste that adds depth and flavor to many dishes.
What are the Health Benefits of Garlic?
It is known for its numerous health benefits including its antibacterial, antifungal, and antiviral properties. It has been used for centuries to help boost the immune system, lower blood pressure, and improve cholesterol levels.
How to Store Garlic?
To store garlic, place it in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight. You can also store it in a covered container or garlic keeper in the refrigerator to keep it fresh for longer.
What are the Different Forms of Garlic?
It is available in various forms including fresh garlic bulbs, minced garlic in jars, garlic powder, and garlic salt. Each form has its own unique taste and uses in cooking.
How to Use Garlic in Cooking?
It is commonly used in a variety of dishes including soups, stews, marinades, sauces, and stir-fries. You can use fresh garlic cloves, minced garlic, garlic powder, or garlic salt to add flavor and depth to your dishes. It is important to keep in mind that garlic should be added towards the beginning of the cooking process to allow its flavors to develop.
How to Peel and Mince Garlic?
To peel garlic, gently press the clove with the side of a knife to loosen the skin, then peel off the skin by hand. To mince garlic, first crush the clove with the side of your knife, then chop the garlic into small pieces using a rocking motion.
How much Garlic to Use in Cooking?
The amount of garlic to use in cooking depends on personal taste and the dish you are making. As a general rule, one medium-sized clove of garlic will provide enough flavor for a single serving of most dishes.
What are Some Common Recipes that Use Garlic?
Some common recipes that use garlic include roasted garlic, garlic bread, garlic butter, garlic mashed potatoes, and garlic shrimp. Garlic is a versatile ingredient that can be used in a variety of dishes to add flavor and depth to your cooking.
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