Can peeled garlic be frozen?

For those who love garlic and use it liberally in their dishes, thinking about how to store it to prevent it from spoiling is not a problem. But what if you only use a tooth or two now and then?

Can you freeze peeled garlic?

Yes, you can store peeled garlic cloves in the freezer, where they will keep well for over 6 months. You just have to prepare the cloves, put them in an airtight bag or container and freeze them.

Frozen and thawed garlic changes its texture becoming softer. The taste, however, remains the same.

Read on for a quick guide on freezing peeled garlic cloves and how to use them.

Freezing peeled garlic: does it work?

If you’ve somehow ended up with too much garlic and you know you won’t be using it for a few months, then you should try freezing it.

There are a few ways to freeze garlic, but freezing peeled garlic cloves is one of the easiest and most convenient ways to do it.

Frozen garlic cloves are also easier to use, since you can remove as many as you need at any time.

How does freezing affect garlic?

Freezing peeled garlic will not affect the potency of this aromatic vegetable. The taste will still be spicy.  The texture, however, will be slightly altered . Thawed garlic is not as firm and crunchy as fresh.

This isn’t much of a problem, as cooking the garlic softens it anyway. As for salads, sauces or other dishes in which you are going to use it raw, chop it finely and the texture changes will not be noticeable.

How to freeze peeled garlic

Peeling the teeth is the most time-consuming step of the process. But it can be easy and fast if you know the proper method to do it.

Preparation

Peeling garlic is not the most fun activity. Many garlic bulbs can take a long time to prepare if you don’t know how to peel them quickly.

You may be tempted to put the bulbs directly in the bag and freeze them. But this doesn’t solve the problem, since you’ll have to peel them afterwards anyway. And you will surely regret freezing unpeeled garlic cloves when you are in a hurry to prepare a quick meal.

Here’s how to quickly peel garlic and prepare the cloves for freezing:

1. 1. Put a garlic bulb on the table and use both hands to push down and separate the cloves.
   2. Find a large bowl with a lid that will hold several garlic bulbs. A glass jar also works, as well as a bowl and a plate to cover it.

1. Put the garlic cloves in the bowl, close it and begin to shake it for a minute maximum.
2. Take a look at your garlic cloves. They are almost peeled! Take a few minutes to discard the loose skin of the garlic.
3. Cut the root end of the cloves. (optional)

To freeze

Once you have the peeled garlic cloves, this is how you should store them in the freezer:

1. Transfer the peeled garlic cloves to an airtight bag or container.
2. Press out excess air if you use a plastic bag.
3. Label with the date and store in the freezer.

For extra protection, wrap your teeth in a piece of aluminum foil or plastic wrap before putting them in the bag or container.

How long does peeled garlic last in the freezer?

Peeled garlic cloves will last in the freezer for 6 months to a year. However, it is recommended to use them as soon as possible to obtain the maximum aroma and flavor. Check if they are ok before discarding them.

How to use frozen garlic

If you plan to use the garlic in dishes that require cooking on the fire, you can put the frozen cloves directly in the pan.

For salads, dipping sauces, or any other dish that calls for raw garlic, let the cloves thaw at room temperature. Since the teeth are quite small, you won’t have to wait too long.

If you’re in a hurry, put the frozen garlic in a plastic bag and run it under the tap. It’s also a quick way to defrost garlic cloves if you microwave them for 10 seconds.

Since thawed garlic is softer than fresh, it is easier to chop it with a cheese grater rather than using a knife to chop it. You can also use a garlic press.