Freezing garlic is one of the easiest ways to preserve it for long periods, especially if you don’t want to deal with the hassle of drying or curing it.
How to Freeze Garlic:
- Peel the garlic cloves: Start by peeling the garlic cloves. If you’re working with whole bulbs, break them apart to get individual cloves. You can also leave the skins on if you plan to chop or puree them before freezing.
- Chop, slice, or puree (optional): If you prefer to use garlic in minced or pureed form, you can chop or blend the cloves before freezing. This makes it easier to use directly in cooking later on.
- Flash freeze the garlic (optional): For whole cloves, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze for about 1-2 hours. This prevents them from sticking together when stored in bags.
- Store in airtight containers or freezer bags: Transfer the frozen garlic (whole or chopped) into airtight freezer bags or containers. Remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. Label the containers with the date to keep track of storage.
- Use directly from the freezer: When you’re ready to use the garlic, you can simply pull out as much as you need from the freezer. No need to thaw—it can go straight into your dish!
Benefits of Freezing Garlic:
- Garlic retains much of its flavor and nutritional value when frozen.
- It’s super convenient to grab a clove or two whenever needed.
- No peeling necessary if you freeze individual cloves!
Method 2: Curing and Storing Garlic (Traditional Method)
If you prefer to store garlic in a way that doesn’t involve freezing, you can cure it and keep it in a cool, dry place for months.
How to Cure and Store Garlic:
- Harvest or buy fresh garlic: If you’ve grown your own garlic, harvest it when the leaves begin to turn yellow. If you’re purchasing garlic, ensure it’s firm and fresh.
- Dry the garlic: Tie the garlic bulbs together in bunches or lay them out in a dry, well-ventilated area. Allow them to cure for about 2-3 weeks in a dark, cool, dry place like a pantry or a shaded area.
- Trim the stems: Once the garlic has fully dried, trim the roots and leaves, leaving about 1-2 inches of stem attached for easy handling.
- Store properly: Store the cured garlic bulbs in mesh bags, hanging baskets, or boxes with good airflow. A cool, dry spot like a pantry is ideal for this type of storage.
- Check periodically: Make sure your garlic is still firm and free of mold. Properly cured garlic can last for several months when stored correctly.
