This guide provides an overview of what garlic powder is, how it is used, stored, its substitutes, and answers some frequently asked questions about this spices.
I wasn’t always a fan of cooking with garlic. I used to find the smell too strong and a little bit of a turn off when I was younger.
As I have gotten older and expanded my palette, I have come to appreciate dishes made with some garlic cloves and powder.
What is Garlic Powder?
Garlic powder is made by drying fresh garlic cloves and grinding them into a powder form.
It has a milder taste compared to the fresh one but still gives dishes a similar flavor.
One good thing about this spices, is that it works well in recipes where the fresh cloves might not blend as easily.
How Do You Use It?
Garlic powder is often added to soups, stews, or broths for extra flavor. It can also be added into marinades for chicken, beef, or fish.
When I am making roasted vegetables, potatoes, or pasta, I usually sprinkle some of this spices into these dishes.
In the Summertime, when my family and I grill meats, we usually include it as part of our seasoning blend. When mixed with other seasoning like smoked paprika, curry, and thyme, the result is a delicious blend!
Nutritional Benefits
Garlic powder has nutrients like vitamins and minerals. It may help with digestion and support the immune system.
How Do I Make Garlic Powder?
If you would like to make it at home, it is actually pretty easy:
- Peel and slice fresh garlic cloves thinly.
- Dry the slices in the sun, a food dehydrator, or an oven on low heat until they are crisp.
- Grind the dried slices in a blender, spice grinder, or mortar and pestle until they become a powder.
I usually grind these a couple of times to make sure the result I get is smooth.
How Do I Store It?
You can store this spices in a sealed container in a cool and dry spot like your pantry. The idea is for you to reduce exposure to sunlight and moisture.
Does This Spice Expire?
Garlic powder doesn’t go bad, but it can lose its strength over time.
It’s best to use it within 6–12 months. If it smells faint or doesn’t taste as strong, it’s time to replace it.
What Can I Use Instead of This Spices?
If you don’t have this spices at home, try these options:
- Fresh: Use one clove for every 1/8 teaspoon the powder.
- Granulated: It’s similar but has a rougher texture.
- Salt: Use carefully since it also adds salt to your recipe.
- Dried: Crush it to use in recipes, or rehydrate it in water.
Are Garlic Powder and the Granulated Form the Same?
Not exactly. The powder form is finer, like flour, while the granulated one has a coarser texture.
Both can be used interchangeably, but the texture may affect your recipe slightly.
Are Garlic Powder and Garlic Salt the Same?
No, the salt is a mix of garlic powder and salt, usually in a 3:1 ratio. Be cautious when substituting, as it will add extra salt to your dish.
Is Garlic Powder Low Fodmap?
Yes, garlic powder made without added ingredients can be low FODMAP if it’s made from garlic oil or processed to remove fermentable sugars.
Always check the packaging or consult with a nutritionist.
Is Garlic Powder Better or the Same as Cloves?
No, they’re different. Cloves are fresh and have a stronger flavor.
The powder is dried and milder.
In terms of which is better, it comes down to the recipe you are making. They way I view this comparison is based on my schedule.
On days when I am free and have more time my meals, I prefer cloves. On busy days, I use the powder to save time and return to my more pressing needs.
So, basically the answer is the powder form is more convenient for quick dishes and when mixing with other seasoning blends, while cloves provide a fresher and more intense flavor.
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