Are you tired of throwing away garlic every year because it spoils too quickly? I know I was! But I have finally discovered the secret to storing garlic until spring, and I’m excited to share it with you. By following these three essential rules and using some clever techniques, you can keep your garlic fresh and delicious all winter long.
1. Storing Garlic in Bulk on Shelves or Trays
If you have a dry cellar with a stable temperature, this method is perfect for you. Simply place the garlic heads on shelves or trays, ensuring there is enough airflow around each bulb. This will help prevent spoilage.
2. Using a Mesh Bag
When you have a large quantity of garlic to store, a mesh bag is a great option. It allows for proper ventilation, reducing the risk of mold. Remember to cut the stem long enough to maintain airflow between the garlic heads.
3. Garlic Braids
Not only are garlic braids beautiful to look at, but they are also excellent for storage. If you know how to braid garlic properly, it will hang well in a dry, ventilated space, keeping mice away. This traditional method is considered one of the best ways to preserve garlic until spring.
4. Wooden Boxes or Baskets
You can store garlic in a wooden box or basket, but make sure not to pile everything together. Separate each layer with paper or straw to ensure proper air circulation. It’s also a good idea to add traps or bait nearby to protect against rodents.
5. Glass Jar Storage
For smaller quantities, storing garlic cloves in glass jars works well. Break the heads into individual cloves without peeling them and add a few black peppercorns, a dry bay leaf, and some coarse salt. Store the jar in a dry, dark place.
6. Cardboard Box and Salt Method
Using cardboard boxes with holes punched in the sides, place the garlic heads in layers, sprinkling each layer with coarse salt. This method requires a lot of salt, but it effectively absorbs moisture and helps preserve the garlic.
7. Preserving Garlic with Flour
Flour is another excellent option for absorbing moisture. Place the garlic heads in containers and cover them with flour. This method keeps the garlic dry and prevents molding. Alternatively, you can store separated cloves in glass jars with flour.
8. Paraffin or Wax Coating
If you don’t have a cellar, coating the garlic in melted paraffin or wax can help preserve it. Dip each head in liquid paraffin, let it dry on cardboard, and then place it in boxes without tightly sealing the lid. This coating helps garlic last up to a year.
9. Freezing Garlic in Oil
Peel the cloves and place them in plastic containers. Cover them with refined sunflower oil, ensuring the garlic is fully submerged. Store the containers in the freezer for up to a year. This method keeps the garlic fresh without the need for defrosting before use.
10. Storing Garlic in Wine
Peel the garlic cloves and place them in a glass jar filled with red or white wine. Store the jar in the refrigerator or a cool cellar. The wine acts as a preservative, adding unique flavors to the garlic, which remains fresh for several months.
11. Using Perlite
Perlite, a horticultural material, helps maintain consistent moisture levels around the garlic. Pour perlite over the garlic heads in a wooden box, cover it with paper, and store it in a dry cellar. This method prevents mold and keeps the garlic fresh.
12. Storing Garlic in Paper Bags
Use large kraft paper bags to store garlic heads. Place the bags in a dry room with a temperature of around 16°C (60°F). The paper allows for air circulation, helping to prevent mold growth.
One old-fashioned but effective technique involves using nylon stockings. Fill the stockings with garlic heads and hang them in a cool, dry place, such as a cellar. The thin fabric of the stockings allows for ventilation, keeping the garlic from rotting. This method was commonly used in the past and has stood the test of time for preserving garlic well.
Follow these three key rules to ensure your garlic stays fresh throughout the winter.
1. Choose Only Healthy Garlic Heads
Make sure to store only perfectly healthy garlic heads, with no signs of damage or mold. Even one spoiled clove can ruin the whole batch. By selecting healthy garlic, you will significantly reduce the amount of garlic lost during storage.
2. Control Temperature and Humidity
The storage environment should be dry and cool, with humidity levels between 50% and 70%. Too much humidity encourages mold, while too little causes garlic to dry out. Keep temperatures stable, around 16°C (60°F) for spring garlic and no higher than 5°C (41°F) for winter garlic. Avoid temperature fluctuations, as they can lead to rotting.
3. Store Garlic in the Dark
Light can speed up spoilage, so it’s important to store garlic in a dark environment. A dim cellar or pantry is ideal, as prolonged exposure to light increases the risk of mold and insects.
By using these practical storage methods and following the essential rules for temperature, humidity, and light control, you can successfully keep your garlic fresh all winter. Whether you prefer flour, paraffin, or old-fashioned techniques like braiding or nylon stockings, there is a method suited for every home. Don’t let your garlic go to waste this year—store it properly and enjoy its delicious flavor and health benefits until spring.
