Garlic is a total staple in kitchens all over the world, and for good reason! Not only does it make everything taste amazing, but it’s also a powerhouse for your health, helping out your heart and circulation. If you’ve just finished your first successful harvest, you’re probably wondering: “Now what? How do I keep these bulbs fresh?”
What to do right after the harvest
There’s nothing quite like the mild, delicate flavor of freshly harvested garlic. But if you’re looking for that classic, punchy garlic kick, you’ll want to let it dry. After harvesting, the best move is to let the bulbs sit right in the garden bed for 3 to 4 days. After that, hang them up in a breezy, shaded spot for about two weeks to finish curing. Once they’re dry, you can braid the stalks together and hang your garlic braid in a warm, dry spot—either outside under a porch or right in your kitchen. Stored like this, it’ll stay good for 6 to 8 months!
Skip the fridge!
Just like onions, garlic and refrigerators don’t really get along. The humidity in a fridge is way too high for these bulbs. If you store them there, they’ll quickly lose their flavor, shrivel up, and get a weird, rubbery texture. Even worse, the damp environment is a breeding ground for mold, which is definitely not something you want near your food.
Tips for perfect storage
Never stash your garlic in airtight containers like plastic bins or bags. Without airflow, moisture builds up fast and mold will follow. Instead, go for a ceramic garlic keeper with air holes or even a simple paper bag. To keep your harvest fresh for as long as possible, just remember these three golden rules:
- Keep it dark
- Keep it at room temperature
- Keep it dry
Storing garlic and onions together
Since they have pretty much the same needs, garlic and onions make great roommates! You can store them together in wire baskets or any breathable container, as long as you keep them in a dark, dry spot.
How to preserve your garlic long-term
Fresh is best, of course, but if you’ve had a bumper crop and can’t use it all at once, there are plenty of ways to make it last.
Freezing garlic
Yes, you can absolutely freeze garlic! It’s super convenient to have pre-portioned cloves ready to go. Just follow a few simple steps to make sure it keeps its quality in the freezer.
Canning and jarring
Canning is making a huge comeback, and for good reason. It’s a classic way to preserve a big harvest. If you’re living the self-sufficient life, canning or jarring your garlic is a fantastic way to stock your pantry for the long haul.
Pickling or infusing in oil
Preserving garlic in vinegar or oil is a delicious way to change things up. Pickled garlic lasts a long time and makes a tangy, crunchy addition to a charcuterie board or a snack plate. Fun tip: garlic is also the perfect partner when you’re making your own pickles!