Garlic is a kitchen essential — bold, aromatic, and packed with flavour. But if not stored properly, it can lose its punch, dry out, or even sprout prematurely. Here are 10 smart tips to store garlic while keeping its irresistible aroma and potency intact.
Store Whole Bulbs in a Cool, Dark Place: Keep garlic bulbs in a well-ventilated, dark area — like a pantry or cupboard — away from moisture and sunlight. (Image: AI-Generated)
Avoid Refrigerating Whole Garlic: The fridge can cause garlic to sprout and lose flavor. Stick to room temperature for whole bulbs. (Image: AI-Generated)
Use a Mesh Bag or Garlic Keeper: Mesh bags, paper bags, or terracotta garlic keepers allow air circulation and prevent mold. (Image: AI-Generated)
Don’t Break the Bulb Until Needed: Garlic starts to degrade once the bulb is broken. Keep it whole until you’re ready to use it. (Image: AI-Generated)
Freeze Peeled or Chopped Garlic: Store peeled or minced garlic in an airtight container or ice cube tray and freeze for long-term use. (Image: AI-Generated)
Store Peeled Cloves In Olive Oil: For short-term use, submerge peeled cloves in olive oil and refrigerate. However, use within a week to avoid botulism risk. (Image: AI-Generated)
Dry Garlic For Longer Shelf Life: Dehydrate garlic slices and store them in an airtight container for use in soups, stews, or grinding into powder. (Image: AI-Generated)
Roast And Refrigerate for Easy Use: You can roast a batch of garlic and store it in the fridge for a sweet, mellow flavor boost in dishes. (Image: AI-Generated)
Avoid Plastic Bags: Plastic traps moisture and promotes mold. Use breathable containers instead. (Image: AI-Generated)
Inspect Regularly: Check the stored garlic often. Remove any cloves that show signs of spoilage. (Image: AI-Generated)
