Garlic is a popular and versatile ingredient that adds a distinctive flavor to various dishes. It’s not only delicious but also beneficial for our health due to its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. However, fresh garlic has a limited shelf life, so it’s essential to preserve it correctly to maintain its taste and nutritional value. Here are eight steps to help you preserve fresh garlic:

1. Choose the right garlic: Always select firm, blemish-free bulbs with dry skins. Avoid bulbs with green sprouts or any signs of mold or decay as they won’t store well.

2. Store in a cool, dark place: Keep garlic bulbs in a dark place with good air circulation and low humidity. An ideal storage temperature is between 60-65°F (15-18°C). Do not keep them in the refrigerator, as the cold temperature can cause garlic to sprout or become moldy.

3. Use a garlic keeper: Ceramic or terra-cotta garlic keepers are designed with small holes for ventilation, ensuring your garlic stays dry and fresh for longer periods.

4. Store in mesh bags: Placing garlic in mesh bags allows for proper air circulation, prevents excess moisture build-up, and prolongs shelf life.

5. Freeze fresh garlic: Peel the cloves and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Freeze for at least one hour before transferring the cloves into an airtight container or freezer-safe bag for storage.

6. Dry (dehydrate) fresh garlic: Slice peeled cloves thinly and arrange them on a dehydrator tray or an oven-safe rack with space between each slice for air circulation. Set your dehydrator or oven to 125-135°F (52-57°C) and dry until they become crisp, which usually takes 6-8 hours.

7. Make garlic-infused oil: Peel cloves of garlic, crush them gently to release flavor, and add them to a sterilized jar. Pour over a mild-flavored oil, such as olive or grapeseed oil. Store the jar in the refrigerator for up to one month. Important note: Storing garlic-infused oil at room temperature could lead to botulism, so always refrigerate it for safety.

8. Preserve garlic in vinegar: Peel and chop fresh cloves before adding them to a sterilized jar. Pour over distilled white vinegar or apple cider vinegar to completely cover the cloves. Seal the jar and store it in the refrigerator. The pickled garlic will keep for 2-3 months.

By following these steps, you can enjoy your garlic’s flavor and health benefits for an extended period. Always check stored garlic for any signs of spoilage and discard any cloves that exhibit signs of decay, mold, or an off smell.