The Garlic Company
Fresh Garlic Bulbs
What it is
Fresh garlic is a pungent bulb vegetable that is a staple in kitchens worldwide. It is composed of multiple cloves, each encased in a papery skin. The flavor intensifies when cooked, transforming from sharp and biting when raw to sweet and mellow when roasted or sautéed. Its aroma is distinctive and often signals the start of many savory dishes.
How people cook with it
Garlic is an essential aromatic that forms the flavor base for countless recipes. It can be used whole, minced, crushed, or sliced, depending on the desired intensity and texture.
- Flavoring sauces and marinades
- Roasting with vegetables
- Sautéing for stir-fries
- Infusing oils
To prepare garlic, begin by removing the papery outer layers. You can then separate the cloves. For a milder flavor, you can leave the cloves whole or lightly smash them. For a more potent taste, mince or finely chop the garlic. It can be added early in the cooking process to build a foundational flavor or later to provide a brighter, sharper note. Roasting whole heads of garlic yields a sweet, spreadable paste.
How it differs from similar foods
Fresh garlic offers a vibrant, pungent flavor that is more complex than dried garlic powder or granulated garlic. While dried forms are convenient, they lack the fresh, aromatic qualities and the nuanced taste profile that fresh garlic provides when cooked.
Who it is for
Home cooks and professional chefs alike rely on fresh garlic for its versatile flavor.
How to keep the rest
Store fresh garlic bulbs in a cool, dry, and well-ventilated place, away from direct sunlight. Avoid refrigerating whole bulbs, as this can cause them to sprout. Once peeled or cut, store any remaining garlic in an airtight container in the refrigerator for a few days.