The Ultimate Guide to Peel Garlic in 10 Different Methods
Peeling garlic doesn’t have to be a hassle! Check out 10 easy ways to peel garlic—from quick tricks to pro tips, from straightforward to convoluted methods, we’ve got you covered. Make cooking faster and easier.
Garlic Drawing
Credit Alberto Conde Kitchen in the Med
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1. Traditional Knife Method
Knife and Garlic Drawing
Credit Alberto Conde Kitchen in the Med
- How it works: Place a garlic clove flat on a cutting board. Lay the flat side of a chef’s knife over the clove. Press down gently but firmly until the clove is slightly crushed. It will loosen the skin, making it easy to peel.
- When to use: It can be used to peel a few cloves quickly and prep the clove for chopping or mincing.
- Tip: Be careful not to press too hard if you want the clove to remain intact.
2. Shake in a Jar or Bowl
Garlic Cloves in a Jar Drawing
Credit Alberto Conde Kitchen in the Med
- How it works: Place garlic cloves in a jar or between two bowls. Seal tightly and shake vigorously for 15–20 seconds. The impact and friction separate the skins from the cloves.
- When to use: This method is best for peeling multiple cloves simultaneously with minimal mess.
- Tip: Use sturdy containers with secure lids to avoid spills during shaking.
3. Microwave Method
Garlic Drawing
Credit Alberto Conde Kitchen in the Med
- How it works: Place garlic cloves (or an entire head) in the microwave and heat for 10–15 seconds. The heat causes the skins to loosen, making them easy to remove.
- When to use: This is a great method for quickly peeling garlic when you plan to use it immediately in cooking.
- Tip: Monitor closely to avoid overheating, which can soften the garlic or alter its flavor.
4. Soak in Warm Water
Garlic Cloves in Warm Water Drawing
Credit Alberto Conde Kitchen in the Med
- How it works: Submerge garlic cloves in warm water and let them sit for 10 minutes. The water softens the skin, and you can then rub it off with your fingers.
- When to use: Ideal for large batches of garlic when you have time to let them soak.
- Tip: Use this method if you want the cloves to stay intact for slicing or roasting.
5. Rubber Tube Roller
Garlic Peeler from Amazon
- How it works: Place a garlic clove inside a rubber garlic peeler tube. Roll it back and forth on a countertop with light pressure. The skin separates from the clove due to friction.
- When to use: This is perfect for single cloves if you have a garlic peeler handy and want to keep your hands clean.
- Tip: Use a silicone baking mat or damp cloth for a DIY version to achieve a similar effect.
6. Freeze and Tap
Garlic Drawing
Credit Alberto Conde Kitchen in the Med
- How it works: Place garlic cloves in the freezer for about 30 minutes. Once frozen, tap them gently on a hard surface like a cutting board. The skin will crack and peel off easily.
- When to use: This is best for bulk garlic prep, especially if you plan to store the peeled cloves for future use.
- Tip: Keep peeled cloves in the freezer to maintain freshness and save prep time later.
7. Cutting Method
Garlic Clove Drawing
Credit Alberto Conde Kitchen in the Med
- How it works: Trim the root and tip of the garlic clove using a sharp knife. The skin around the clove loosens, making it easier to peel away.
- When to use: This technique helps peel a few cloves when you want them to remain intact and neatly prepped.
- Tip: Combine this method with the knife-smashing technique for even faster peeling.
8. Smash with a Mortar and Pestle
Garlic Cloves in a Mortar Drawing
Credit Alberto Conde Kitchen in the Med
- How it works: Place garlic cloves in a mortar. Lightly smash them with the pestle. The skins will loosen and can be removed easily.
- When to use: Great for small amounts of garlic, especially if you plan to mash it for recipes.
- Tip: Add a pinch of salt for more friction and quicker peeling.
9. Peeling with a Salad Spinner
Salad Spinner Drawing
Credit Alberto Conde Kitchen in the Med
- How it works: Add garlic cloves to the basket of a salad spinner and spin vigorously for 10–15 seconds. The motion separates the skins from the cloves.
- When to use: Best for peeling large quantities of garlic quickly.
- Tip: Use fresh, firm garlic for the best results.
10. Buy Pre-Peeled Garlic
Pre Peeled Garlic from Amazon
- How it works: Pre-peeled garlic is sold in vacuum-sealed bags or small containers, ready to use.
- When to use: Perfect for saving time when preparing dishes with a lot of garlic.
- Tip: Store in the fridge and use quickly to maintain freshness.
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Welcome to Kitchen in the Med!
I’m Alberto, born and raised in Barcelona, Spain, a principal city in the Mediterranean.
Here, I share authentic, easy-to-follow recipes inspired by the rich flavors of my home. You’ll find wholesome, time-honored dishes, expert cooking tips, and ingredient guides to help you bring the Mediterranean diet and other dishes to your kitchen—regardless of where you live.
You can also follow my quest to find a small plot of land to live and grow a garden in the Med.
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