The top 2 questions we are asked at our table at the White Bear Lake farmers market are
- How do I store my garlic?
- How long will it last?
You are probably wondering the same thing as you are considering how much garlic to purchase from us. These are great questions and here are some tips.
Garlic can actually keep well for months; the key is to store it the right way. There are 3 important things to keep in mind when it comes to proper storage.
Keep the Bulb Whole
Leaving the entire bulb of garlic whole and not breaking it apart is the best way to store fresh garlic. If kept this way, under the right conditions, the bulb will stay fresh for months.
We sell 8 varieties of garlic and all but the Spanish Roja will last until next spring. Spanish Roja is known for its “true garlic flavor” and that is why we love to grow it – but it should be eaten by October/November.
Think Dry and Dark
Light and moisture are garlic’s worst enemies, as they both cause mold to grow. Instead, store garlic at room temperature in a dry, dark place that has plenty of air circulation, like in a wire-mesh basket or open paper bag in a cupboard or pantry. Do not store fresh garlic bulbs in plastic bags or sealed containers.
We sell our garlic in half-pound units and they are sent to you in mesh bags which are perfect for storage.
Avoid the Fridge
When stored in a cold environment, like the refrigerator, garlic will begin to sprout a few days. While sprouted garlic is still edible, it can sometimes be a little bitter tasting.
How to Store Garlic Once Broken Apart
Many times I only need a few cloves for a recipe and not the entire bulb. I store the remaining unpeeled cloves on the counter right next to my stove. I use garlic almost every day so this keeps the partial bulb close to my cooking. If you will not be using it right away it can be returned to the bin in your pantry.
How to Store Peeled Garlic
If you’ve peeled or chopped too much garlic for a recipe, it’s OK to stick it in the fridge. Keep it sealed in an airtight container to prevent raw garlic smells wafting through the fridge, and try to use it up as soon as possible, within a week or so, to prevent sprouting and loss of flavor.