Preserving Garlic in Water: A Step-by-Step Guide
Preserving garlic in water, while not the most common method, can be done for short-term storage. Garlic generally prefers to be stored in a cool, dry place, but if you intend to use it soon, submerging it in water can keep it fresh for a brief period. Here’s how you do it.
Selecting the Right Garlic
Before you start, ensure that you have fresh and healthy garlic bulbs or cloves. Look for garlic that is plump, with a papery skin, and without any signs of sprouting or mold.
Cleaning the Garlic
Remove any dirt by gently brushing the garlic or rinsing it under cool water. However, don’t peel the garlic before preserving, as the skin helps to protect the cloves.
Submerging Garlic in Water
1. Take a clean jar or a small container. Make sure it is thoroughly washed and dried.
2. Fill the container with fresh, cool water.
3. Place the unpeeled garlic cloves or whole bulbs into the water.
4. Cover the container with a lid or plastic wrap. This will prevent any contaminants from getting into the water and reduce the garlic odor in your fridge.
Storing the Garlic
Place the container in the refrigerator. The cool temperature will help preserve the garlic and slow down the growth of bacteria.
Monitoring the Garlic
Check the garlic daily, changing the water to prevent bacterial growth. If the garlic begins to show any signs of spoilage such as a bad odor, discoloration, or sliminess, discard it immediately.
Using the Preserved Garlic
Use the garlic within a week as water can promote the growth of bacteria and fungi over time. When ready to use, remove the garlic from the water, peel it if necessary, and proceed with your recipe.
Important Considerations
Although this method can be used, it’s not the best practice for long-term garlic storage due to the risk of botulism, a serious illness caused by bacteria that can thrive in anaerobic (oxygen-free) environments like a jar of water. As a general rule, garlic should be stored dry and only submerged in water shortly before use.
Alternative Preservation Methods
- Dry Storage: Keep whole unpeeled garlic bulbs in a cool, dry place with good air circulation.
- Refrigeration: Store peeled cloves in a sealed container or zipper-lock bag in the refrigerator for a short period.
- Freezing: Garlic can be frozen whole, sliced, or chopped. A common method is to freeze garlic in oil, but ensure it is used quickly after thawing due to the potential risks of botulism.
- Pickling: Pickling garlic in vinegar is an alternative that can extend its shelf life by several months.
For best results and safety, consider using one of these alternative methods for preserving your garlic.