Garlic... So Much Garlic, What to Do Now?

Garlic is a versatile and flavorful herb that many gardeners love to grow. However, there are times when your garlic harvest yields an abundance of bulbs, leaving you wondering what to do with all that garlic. In this blog post, we'll explore various ideas and tips on how to make the most of your garlic surplus. From storage and preservation methods to creative culinary uses, let's dive into the world of garlic!

Proper Storage to ensure the longevity of your garlic bulbs

To ensure the longevity of your garlic bulbs, it's crucial to store them correctly. Here are a few storage methods to consider:

• Hanging Bundles: Tie the garlic bulbs in bunches and hang them in a cool, dry, and well-ventilated area. This method works well if you have a shed or a cool basement. Avoid areas with direct sunlight, as it can cause the garlic to sprout prematurely.
• Mesh Bags or Baskets: Place the garlic bulbs in mesh bags or baskets and store them in a cool, dry place. Mesh bags allow for air circulation, preventing the bulbs from becoming moldy. Keep them away from moisture and heat sources.
• Braiding: If you have softneck garlic varieties, you can try braiding the stems together and hang them in a cool, dry place. Braiding not only provides an attractive display but also helps with proper air circulation.

Preservation Techniques for your garlic surplus

When faced with an abundance of garlic, consider preserving some of it for future use. Here are a few preservation methods to try:

1. Freezing: Peel and mince the garlic cloves, then place them in an airtight container or ice cube trays with a little water or oil. Freeze them, and you'll have convenient garlic cubes or minced garlic ready to use in your cooking.
2. Drying: Slice the garlic cloves thinly or chop them into small pieces. Spread them on a baking sheet or dehydrator trays and allow them to dry completely. Store the dried garlic in an airtight container, and use it as a seasoning or to make homemade garlic powder.
3. Fermenting: Create delicious fermented garlic cloves by immersing peeled garlic cloves in a saltwater brine solution. The cloves will develop a tangy, complex flavor and can be used in various dishes or as a condiment.

Creative Culinary Uses for your surplus

With an abundance of garlic, it's time to get creative in the kitchen. Here are a few ideas to infuse your meals with garlicky goodness:

• Homemade Garlic Infused Oil: Add peeled garlic cloves to a bottle of olive oil and let it infuse for a few weeks. The resulting oil can be used for cooking or as a flavorful drizzle on salads and roasted vegetables.
• Pickled Garlic: Preserve your garlic in a tangy brine solution, adding herbs and spices for extra flavor. Pickled garlic makes a delicious addition to cheese boards, salads, sandwiches, or even as a standalone snack.
• Roasted Garlic: Roasting garlic brings out its natural sweetness and mellows the flavor. Use roasted garlic in spreads, mashed potatoes, pasta dishes, or as a flavorful topping for bread.

Don't let your harvest go to waste

When your garden yields an abundance of garlic, don't let it go to waste. With proper storage and preservation methods, you can enjoy the flavor and health benefits of garlic long after the harvest season. Get creative in the kitchen and explore new culinary uses for your surplus garlic. From homemade infusions to pickling and roasting, the possibilities are endless. Embrace the garlic bounty and savor the incredible flavors it brings to your meals!