Best gardening steps

Garlic is an aromatic ingredient which is so versatile there are hardly any cuisines which do not use it. It is usually quite cheap to buy and if stored properly will keep fresh for a while. This makes it a great ingredient to have in the kitchen. Here are some tips on how to store garlic.

Before we go through keeping it though it is a good idea to review how to buy it. The bulbs should feel hard when squeezed, soft garlic is always older. The bulb should appear smooth with white paper-like skin. Watch out for sprouts as these indicate incorrect storage or age. Do not buy it when sprouting. Also check for signs of mold and avoid it.

The main thing to think about when storing garlic are that it needs dry conditions. Avoid plastic bags or airtight containers as the cloves will start to grow mold. Moisture also leads to sprouting and this impairs the flavor. Sometimes there is no option but to use sprouted garlic, but if that is the case make sure to remove the sprout from the center of the clove. A paper or cloth bag or a ceramic pot with holes in the sides so that air circulates are the ideal places to keep bulbs.

Also avoid low or high temperatures. It does not do well in the fridge as the moisture leads to molding. Room temperature is best. A dry spot in the larder is perfect as it is also dark. Sunlight will encourage sprouting.

These rules apply to fresh garlic but if you buy some new season bulbs then the storage methods are different. These need moisture to keep from drying out and becoming like other garlic. To keep the young delicate flavor put it in a plastic bag in the fridge but try to use it quickly. It is a fantastic ingredient when used raw and has a subtle aroma very different to what we are used to.

Freezing is a decent option and there are a couple of ways to do this. The simplest is to wrap individual cloves and freeze them. However, this is not popular with chefs and cooks as it impairs the taste. It takes a little bit more work but it is worth chopping or making a puree and adding this to butter or oil depending on what is used more in the dishes you make. It can be stored in ice cube trays for convenience and added to a pan straight from the freezer.

Preserving is also a good method of keeping the flavor. There are a number of methods to consider. Making an oil is lovely but be careful to add preservatives or it may spoil and can grow dangerous bacteria. Pickling is another delicious option. A milder vinegar is better so that the taste does not get spoiled and then keep in the fridge. The cloves can also be dried out using a dehydrator or a really low oven setting.

Drying is another handy method of storage. It can be done in a dehydrator or if you do not have one then slice the cloves in half, place them on a baking sheet and roast them in low oven for a couple of hours. Store in an airtight container afterwards. The most important things to remember about keeping garlic are to avoid moisture and sunlight.