Garlic isn’t just great for seasoning spaghetti sauce or warding off vampires. It’s also an excellent choice if you want to add a stunning punch to countless other dishes in the form of pickled garlic.
Not only that, but pickling garlic is a great choice if you want to prolong its shelf life just a little bit longer.
In this post, we’ll unveil the what, the why, and the how of pickling garlic. Let’s dive in!
Why Should You Make Pickled Garlic?
Pickling has been a staple preservation method for centuries, and for good reason. It not only extends the shelf life of food but also transforms flavors, lending a unique, tangy note to ingredients.
Pickled garlic, in particular, boasts several advantages:
- Prolonged Freshness: Once pickled, garlic can last for up to a year, preserving its taste and texture.
- Health Benefits: Garlic is renowned for its nutritional properties, and pickling it can retain some of those benefits.
- Cooking Convenience: Ready-to-use chopped or whole pickled garlic makes last-minute meal prep a breeze.
Pickled Garlic Recipe
Now, for the moment you’ve been waiting for – the step-by-step guide to pickling your own garlic! Here’s how to pickle garlic and do it using a water bath canner. Follow this simple recipe and savor the results for months to come.
Ingredients
- 4 cups peeled garlic cloves
- 2 cups 5% acidity
- 1/2 cup
- 1/2 teaspoon
- 1 teaspoon (optional for flavor)
- 1/2 teaspoon (optional for flavor)
Instructions
To get ready for canning, start by cleaning all your canning gear – jars, lids, and screw bands – in soapy water and rinsing them well. Next, trim the root ends off the garlic cloves and peel enough to fill up four cups.
In a pot on the stove, mix together vinegar, sugar, salt, and any spices you like, then heat it up until it boils. Take your prepared jars and use a spoon to carefully pack the peeled garlic inside, making sure to leave some space at the top.
After that, wipe the edges of the jars clean with a damp cloth, put on the lids, and tighten the bands securely. Now, it’s time to process the jars. Place them in the canner, make sure the water level is right, and let them process for around 10 minutes.
Once done, take the jars out and let them cool down for 12 to 24 hours before storing them in a cool, dark spot. This way, you’ll have delicious pickled garlic ready to enjoy whenever you like!
Other Methods for Preserving Garlic
Don’t want to pickle your garlic? There are other options.
For example, garlic can be frozen for several months. Simply peel the cloves, chop or mince them, and place in airtight containers.
Drying is another option. This method preserves garlic indefinitely. Hang whole bulbs in a well-ventilated area until dried, or use a dehydrator.
Helpful Tips for Pickling Garlic
Before you start pickling, here are a few insider tips:
- The freshest garlic will yield the best-tasting pickles. Aim to pickle garlic soon after it’s harvested or purchased to give you peak flavor.
- To make peeling easier, blanch the garlic in boiling water for a few seconds and then transfer to an ice bath.
- Exercise patience – pickled garlic takes about four weeks to hit its flavor peak.
- While the basic pickling recipe above will give you some amazing results, don’t hesitate to experiment with different spices to customize the flavor. Classic additions include mustard seeds, peppercorns, and dill.
- After the jars have cooled, check that they’ve sealed properly by pressing down on the center of each lid. If the lid pops back, it’s not sealed and should be refrigerated and used first.
How to Use Pickled Garlic
Pickled garlic can add a tasty twist to many dishes! You can chop pickled garlic and mix it into salads for a zesty flavor. It’s also yummy as a topping on pizzas or sandwiches, giving them a tangy kick. Pickled garlic can be a great side dish on its own, offering a flavorful and crunchy snack. You might even enjoy it straight out of the jar!
If you’re feeling creative, try using pickled garlic in homemade dips like guacamole or hummus for an extra burst of flavor. It can also be a delicious addition to stir-fries, adding a unique taste to your favorite veggies and meats. Don’t forget to experiment with pickled garlic in pasta dishes or as a flavorful garnish on soups.
Final Thoughts
You’ve pickled your garlic, and you’re ready to savor it in a plethora of dishes – from adding it to your favorite pasta to using it as a colorful and tasty garnish.
Just remember, in the world of pickling, garlic is the unsung hero that packs a mighty punch. Give it a try today!
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