Freezing:
Freezing your roasted garlic is one of the best ways to preserve it for a long time. To freeze roasted garlic, you need to peel the cloves and remove any dark spots or burnt areas. Then pack the cloves in a freezer bag or airtight container and place it in the freezer. If you have space, you can also freeze the entire head of garlic. However, it might take longer to defrost when you need it.
When you need to use the roasted garlic, remove the frozen cloves from the freezer and let them defrost overnight in the refrigerator. Alternatively, you can microwave them for a few seconds to thaw quickly. Freezing roasted garlic will prolong its shelf life for up to six months.
Refrigeration:
Refrigerating roasted garlic is another great option for preserving it. However, it is important to use an airtight container to prevent moisture from getting in. To refrigerate roasted garlic, let it cool to room temperature before packing it in an airtight container. You can also put a layer of oil or butter over the cloves to keep them moist and fresh.
Refrigerated roasted garlic will last for up to two weeks, and you can take out as many cloves as you need. The disadvantage of refrigeration is that it can harden the cloves, making them difficult to use. Therefore, it is best to chop or mash the garlic before refrigerating to make it easier to use.
Dehydration:
Dehydrating roasted garlic is an excellent way to preserve it but requires a bit of preparation. Dehydrating will remove any moisture from the cloves, making them shelf-stable for several months. To dehydrate your roasted garlic, you can do it in the oven or a dehydrator.
If using an oven, preheat it to the lowest temperature available and spread the roasted garlic cloves on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Leave a small gap between the cloves to allow air circulation. Bake for about six hours until the cloves are crispy and dry. Alternatively, you can use a dehydrator for faster results.
Once the cloves are completely dry, store them in an airtight container in a cool and dry place. Dehydrated roasted garlic will last for several months or even up to a year.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, roasted garlic is a delicious ingredient that is easy to preserve for an extended period. Whether freezing, refrigerating or dehydrating, there is always an option that works well for you. Proper storage of roasted garlic will not only keep it fresh but also ensure that you have this flavorful ingredient on hand whenever you need it. The next time you roast garlic, try one of these methods to preserve your garlic so that you can enjoy it for months to come.