Description
There are three major types of garlic available in the United States: the white-skinned, strongly flavored American garlic; the Mexican and Italian garlic, both of which have mauve-colored skins and a somewhat milder flavor; and the gigantic white-skinned elephant garlic (which is not a true garlic, but a relative of the leek), the most mildly flavored of the three.
Uses
Crushing, chopping, pressing or pureeing garlic releases more of its essential oils and provides a sharper, more assertive flavor than slicing or leaving it whole. Garlic is readily available in forms other than fresh. Dehydrated garlic flakes (sometimes referred to as instant garlic) are slices or bits of garlic that must be reconstituted before using, unless it's added to a liquid-based dish, such as soup or stew.
When dehydrated garlic flakes are ground, the result is garlic powder. Garlic salt is garlic powder blended with salt and a moisture-absorbing agent. Garlic extract and garlic juice are derived from pressed garlic cloves.
Origins
A member of the lily family, garlic is a cousin to leeks, chives, onions and shallots. The edible bulb or "head" grows beneath the ground. This bulb is made up of sections called cloves, each encased in its own parchment-like membrane. Major garlic suppliers include the United States (mainly California, Texas and Louisiana), France, Spain, Italy and Mexico.
Folklore
Garlic has long been credited with providing and prolonging physical strength and was fed to Egyptian slaves building the giant pyramids. Throughout the centuries, its medicinal claims have included cures for toothaches, consumption, open wounds and evil demons.
Color
Off-white
Flavor & Aroma
Pungent and aromatic
Sensory Profile
Garlic's flavor and aroma are permeating and add incomparable flavor to a dish
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