We’re sharing dos and donts of garlic storage.
Garlic is a staple ingredient in the kitchen.
Elevating sauces, jazzing updressings, adorningfresh garlic bread, and more, garlic is a powerhouse.
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It’s an ingredient that any home cook worth their salt makes sure to always have on hand.
Should garlic be refrigerated?
Or should it live in a dark pantry with the onions or on the kitchen counter?
While it is perfectly fine to refrigerate garlic, its not necessary, and its not the best practice.
This doesnt include jarred minced garlic which should be refrigerated upon opening.
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Should Garlic Be Refrigerated?
Popping a head of garlic in the fridge shortens its shelf life significantly.
It may start to sprout after a day or two in the cold environment.
So, the short answer to whether or not garlic should be refrigerated is no.
Overview Of The Ideal Conditions For Storing Garlic
Garlic does best in a coolbut not coldenvironment.
A head of garlic that youve begun using will turn faster than the intact head.
The fridge is actually a great place for storing peeled cloves.
An airtight container works well for both whole cloves and chopped or minced garlic that you have leftover.
Whole unpeeled cloves maylast up to five days or longer.
Risks Associated With Improper Storage Of Garlic
Improper storage of garlic reduces its shelf life.
Astudy in 2014found that sprouted garlic may have some additional health benefits, namely increasing antioxidant activity.
Garlic that has rotted from improper storage that has become moldy should be thrown out.
When choosing garlic, avoid sprouted bulbs and look for tightly packed skins.
It should feel firm to the touch.
Soft garlic has started to rot and no amount of proper storage can save it.
