Description
Learn the best methods to freeze garlic cloves or garlic paste to preserve their fresh flavor and extend their shelf life. This simple guide shows how to properly prepare garlic before freezing, ensuring convenient use in cooking whenever needed.
Ingredients
Scale
Ingredients
- 1 lb. garlic (about 40-50 cloves)
- 1-2 Tbsp. olive oil (if freezing paste)
Instructions
- Separate the Cloves: Remove the garlic cloves from the bulb by placing the bulb on a flat surface and applying pressure to the root end with the palm of your hand to loosen the cloves.
- Peel the Cloves: Cut off the root end of each clove, then peel and remove the papery skin carefully.
- Freeze Garlic Cloves: For whole cloves, spread them out on a baking sheet and freeze them individually before transferring to an airtight container or freezer bag to prevent sticking.
- Prepare and Freeze Garlic Paste: To make paste, finely chop peeled cloves and blend with 1-2 tablespoons of olive oil until smooth. Spoon the paste into ice cube trays and freeze. Once solid, transfer garlic cubes to a freezer-safe container for easy portioning.
Notes
- Freezing garlic cloves preserves their flavor and texture without needing special preservatives.
- Adding olive oil to garlic paste helps maintain its moisture and prevents freezer burn.
- Use airtight containers or freezer bags to avoid absorbing other freezer odors.
- Frozen garlic cloves can be used directly in cooking without thawing.
