Can You Freeze Garlic?
Quick Answer : Can You Freeze Garlic?
Yes. You can freeze garlic and preserve it for later consumption. The best news is that you can freeze garlic in multiple ways. You can freeze the entire garlic bulb. Alternatively, you can freeze the cloves. It is also possible to peel, chop, and puree the garlic before freezing it. Thus, you can preserve garlic in various ways to use in multiple recipes and enhance the taste. So, here is how you freeze garlic.
How Do You Freeze Garlic?
We have already mentioned that you can freeze garlic in multiple ways. Let us discuss them in detail.
Freezing Garlic Whole
Freezing the entire garlic bulb should not be an issue. However, they occupy more freezer space.
- Clean the garlic bulb of all the dirt and remove the loose peels as much as possible.
- Transfer the whole garlic into a freezer bag or airtight freezer container.
- Vacuum seal the bag and close the container airtight.
- Note the freezing date and keep the freezer bag or the container inside the freezer.
Freezing Garlic Cloves Unpeeled
We can freeze the entire garlic bulb, but it can be challenging to use after freezing. Hence, we recommend freezing the individual unpeeled cloves. The process is more or less the same.
- Clean the garlic well and separate the bulb into individual cloves. Do not peel them.
- Place the unpeeled garlic cloves in an airtight container or freezer-safe ziplock bag.
- Expel air and seal the bags and containers.
- Stick the date label. Place the bags deep inside the freezer, allowing the garlic cloves to freeze.
Freeing Peeled Garlic Cloves
The method of freezing peeled garlic cloves is similar, except that you peel them before placing them into freezer bags and inside the freezer. Again, please do not forget to remove the excess air and note down the freezing date on the bag.
Freezing Garlic Slices Or Cubes
Once you peel the garlic cloves, you can slice or chop them according to individual preferences. Place the slices or cubes inside the freezer bag and remove all air from it. Seal the bag well and note the freezing date. Push the bag inside the freezer to let the garlic slices freeze well.
Alternatively, you can freeze the garlic cubes or slices in an ice cube tray for a few hours. Once they freeze solid, transfer them to a freezer bag and place them inside the freezer for regular freezing.
Freezing Garlic Puree
The advantage of freezing garlic puree is that it saves the trouble of chopping and preparing the garlic after freezing. You can directly add the frozen garlic puree cubes into the recipes.
You have two options while freezing garlic puree. One is to prepare the garlic paste using salt and oil. Alternatively, you can use the garlic alone.
- Peel the garlic and blend them in a high-speed blender or a food processor.
- Add oil and salt to the garlic paste. Increasing the oil amount prevents it from freezing solid. Thus, it becomes easier to use later on.
- Pour the garlic mixture into ice cube trays. Alternatively, scoop it on a baking sheet.
- Cover the tray with plastic or cling film to prevent freezer burn.
- Freeze the garlic paste in the freezer for some hours. Once frozen, transfer the garlic cubes to an airtight container or freezer-safe ziplock bag.
- Remove air and seal the bags tight. Note the freezing date and freeze the garlic paste immediately. Freezing it immediately decreases the risk of botulism.
How Long Do You Freeze Garlic?
The pureed garlic can remain frozen fresh for three to four months. When frozen, the whole garlic or its peeled cloves retain their freshness for six months. However, we suggest consuming the garlic within three to four months to enjoy its taste better.
How Do You Defrost Frozen Garlic?
You need not defrost the garlic if you have frozen it as a puree. Instead, you can directly add it from the freezer to the recipe when cooking. But, if the recipe demands defrosting, you can thaw the garlic in the refrigerator. But it will take time to thaw.
Alternatively, you can defrost the garlic bulbs and the cloves at room temperature. You can also throw the garlic or the cloves into hot water to defrost quickly.
The chopped or sliced garlic does not need any defrosting. Instead, you can use them directly in the recipe. The garlic slices melt as you cook the recipe.
Can You Refreeze Garlic?
Technically, there is no problem refreezing garlic. However, we do not recommend repeated freezing as it can affect its texture and taste. You can always defrost the individual garlic cloves or pieces whenever you use them.
Can You Freeze Garlic Bread?
You can freeze garlic bread after they become firm. Transfer the bread to a freezer bag and keep it inside the freezer for extended storage.
Can You Freeze Garlic Butter?
You can freeze garlic butter and preserve it for three months. The best aspect of freezing garlic butter is that there is no need to thaw it. Instead, you can use the butter directly from the freezer in the recipe.
Can You Freeze Garlic Scapes Raw?
Yes. It is possible to freeze garlic scapes raw. Arrange the garlic scapes on a baking tray and flash-freeze for a few hours. Once solidified, transfer the scapes to a freezer bag and keep it inside the freezer after vacuum sealing it.
Can You Freeze Garlic Sauce?
You can freeze garlic sauce. But, you must protect it from exposure to moisture. The water droplets can drip into the sauce and cause the garlic sauce to separate. However, you can take the necessary precautions and freeze the garlic sauce for six months.
Can You Freeze Garlic Confit?
Yes. You can freeze garlic confit for three months. However, please ensure to submerge the garlic cloves in oil before freezing.
Can You Freeze Garlic Sausage?
Yes. You can freeze garlic sausage and maintain its freshness for seven months. However, we recommend freezing it in airtight packing.
Can You Freeze Garlic Paste?
Yes. It is possible to freeze garlic paste. We have discussed the process in detail.
Can You Freeze Garlic Bread In Foil?
We advise freezing garlic bread in foil to prevent exposure to water inside the freezer.
Can You Freeze Garlic Scape Pesto?
It is possible to freeze garlic scape pesto by scooping it into ice cube trays and freezing it in small portions for convenience.
Final Thoughts
Garlic is an indispensable ingredient in almost every kitchen. The garlic has a long shelf life on the kitchen counter. But, you can freeze garlic and extend its shelf life by another six months.
