Black Garlic Recipes

Black garlic is a type of garlic that has been made through a fermentation process. This process changes the color, flavor and texture of the garlic. Black garlic is usually soft and chewy, with a sweet and mild flavor. It is less pungent than raw garlic, and doesn’t have the same pungent flavor.

Black garlic is a good source of antioxidants, which can help protect your cells from damage. It also contains allicin, a compound with antibacterial and antifungal properties.

What is Black Garlic?

Black garlic, also known as fermented garlic, is a culinary wonder that originated in Asia, particularly Korea, Thailand and Japan. This exotic ingredient undergoes a fermentation process, transforming ordinary garlic bulbs into black cloves with a distinct flavor and aroma.

During the fermentation process, fresh garlic bulbs are kept under a carefully controlled temperature and humidity environment for an extended period of time, usually from several weeks to several months.

This slow fermentation process breaks down sugars and amino acids, resulting in garlic cloves’ distinctive black color and soft, jelly-like texture.

How to Make Black Garlic?

Ingredients:

• 1 head of garlic, unpeeled
• 1 piece of cheesecloth
• 1 rubber band
• Airtight container

Instructions:

1. Wash the garlic head thoroughly under running water.
2. Wrap the garlic head in cheesecloth and secure it with a rubber band.
3. Place the garlic head in an airtight container.
4. Set the container in a warm, dark place.
5. Check the garlic every week or so. It will take about 3-4 weeks for the garlic to turn black.
6. Once the garlic is black, remove it from the container and enjoy!

Tips:

• The ideal temperature for making black garlic is 140-160 degrees Fahrenheit.
• If you don’t have a warm, dark place, you can place the container in a slow cooker set to the “warm” setting.
• Be patient! It takes about 3-4 weeks for the garlic to turn black.
• Once the garlic is black, it can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 6 months.

Health Benefits of Black Garlic

• Antioxidant powerhouse: Black garlic contains more antioxidants than fresh garlic. These antioxidants help neutralize harmful free radicals in the body, reducing the risk of chronic diseases and supporting overall wellness.
• Heart Health: Studies have shown that black garlic can contribute to heart health by lowering cholesterol levels, lowering blood pressure, and improving blood circulation. Active compounds in black garlic have shown potential to maintain a healthy cardiovascular system.
• Immune System Boost: Black garlic is believed to strengthen the immune system due to its rich content of vitamins, minerals and bioactive compounds. Regular consumption of black garlic can help boost the immune system, making the body more resilient against infections and diseases.
• Anti-cancer properties: Some studies indicate that black garlic may have anti-cancer properties. Certain compounds found in black garlic have demonstrated the ability to inhibit the growth of cancer cells and inhibit the development of tumors. However, further studies are needed to fully understand its mechanism and function.

5 Black Garlic Recipes

1. Black Garlic Roasted Rainbow Carrots:

Ingredients:

• 1 pound rainbow carrots, peeled and cut into 1-inch pieces
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
• 1 tablespoon black garlic cloves, minced
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400 degrees F (200 degrees C).
2. Toss carrots with olive oil, balsamic vinegar, black garlic, salt, and pepper in a large bowl.
3. Spread carrots in a single layer on a baking sheet.
4. Roast for 25-30 minutes, or until carrots are tender and lightly browned.
5. Serve immediately.

2. Black Garlic Fruit Smoothie Recipe:

Ingredients:

• 2 cloves black garlic, minced
• 1 banana, sliced
• 1 cup strawberries, hulled and sliced
• 1 cup raspberries
• 1/2 cup orange juice
• 1/4 cup yogurt
• 1 tablespoon honey

Instructions:

1. Combine all ingredients in a blender and blend until smooth.
2. Pour into a glass and enjoy!

3. Black Garlic Drizzled Caprese Salad:

Ingredients:

• 2 large tomatoes, sliced
• 1 ball of fresh mozzarella, sliced
• 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, torn
• 1 tablespoon black garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon balsamic vinegar
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Arrange the tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil leaves on a serving platter.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the black garlic cloves, olive oil, balsamic vinegar, salt, and pepper.
3. Drizzle the dressing over the salad and serve immediately.

4. Black Garlic Salted Flatbread:

Ingredients:

• 1 (12-inch) whole wheat flatbread
• 2 tablespoons olive oil, plus more for brushing
• 1/4 cup black garlic cloves, minced
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/8 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400 degrees F (200 degrees C).
2. Brush the flatbread with olive oil.
3. Sprinkle the black garlic cloves, salt, and pepper over the flatbread.
4. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the flatbread is golden brown and the garlic is fragrant.
5. Let cool slightly.
6. Top with feta cheese and parsley.
7. Serve immediately.

5. Creamy Black Garlic Chicken:

Ingredients:

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1/4 cup black garlic cloves, minced
• 1/4 cup heavy cream
• 1/4 cup chicken broth
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/8 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley

Instructions:

1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Add the chicken and cook, stirring occasionally, until browned on all sides.
3. Add the black garlic cloves, heavy cream, chicken broth, salt, and pepper.
4. Bring to a simmer and cook for 10-15 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the sauce has thickened.
5. Stir in the parsley and serve immediately.

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