Prepare the Glass Jars or Airtight Containers:

• Prepare sterilized glass jars or airtight containers. Wash thoroughly and dry completely to prevent moisture.

Peel Garlic:

• Start by separating the cloves: place the head of garlic on a cutting board or flat surface, and use the palm of your hand to press down until the garlic breaks apart into individual cloves.

• To smash, use the flat side of a knife, placing it over one clove. With your non-dominant hand holding the knife, press down with your dominant hand until you feel the clove crack.

• Once smashed, the garlic’s papery covering easily releases, making it simple to peel by hand. Alternatively, use a garlic peeler tube or place the cloves in a sealed container and shake vigorously to remove the skins.

• Repeat the process for each clove to quickly prepare a lot of garlic for mincing or cooking.

Mince Garlic:

Using a Food Processor or Blender:

• Add peeled garlic cloves, olive oil, and salt (if using - the salt acts as a preservative) to a blender or food processor. Blend until the garlic is finely minced, but still retains small, visible pieces.

• If you want the minced garlic to be similar to garlic paste, process for a little longer. Scrape the sides and pulse until all the garlic is the desired consistency.

• Remove from the blender. Use immediately, or store in a glass jar or airtight container in the fridge. Top with olive oil to prevent oxidation and keep the garlic moist and flavorful.

Using a Knife:

• Place the garlic cloves on a cutting board. Place your non-dominant hand on top of the knife for stability.

• Using a sharp chef's knife, chop the garlic using a fanning or rocking motion, keeping the tip of the knife in contact with the cutting board. Chop until your garlic cloves are finely minced.

• If you need garlic paste, add a little salt and use the flat side of the knife to rub and drag to mince garlic into a paste.

• Use immediately, or store in a glass jar with a lid or airtight container in the fridge. Top with olive oil to retain moisture and flavor.

Using a Garlic Press:

• Place a peeled garlic clove into the cavity of the press. Close and squeeze, then use the back of a knife to scrape off the minced garlic.

• Use immediately, or store in a glass jar or airtight container in the fridge, topping with olive oil to keep the garlic moist and flavorful.

• For easy cleanup, rinse the garlic press immediately after use to prevent garlic from drying in the crevices.

Storage Tips

• Store minced garlic in the refrigerator for up to one week. For longer storage, consider freezing the garlic in ice cube trays.

• Keep in mind that homemade garlic in oil mixtures should always be refrigerated or frozen to prevent the growth of harmful bacteria, such as botulism.

Serving:

Perfect for adding to sauces, marinades, or directly into your favorite dishes.