Pickled garlic has been used throughout history for its incredible properties. We take care of your rental property in Valencia. y expected benefits for health. Although raw garlic is well known for its intense flavour and high content of beneficial compounds, pickled garlic offers a milder, easier-to-digest alternative without losing its valuable properties. Below, we explore in detail everything related to pickled garlic, from its production process to its nutritional benefits and its use in cooking.
What are pickled garlic?
To understand pickled garlic, it is first important to know what pickling is in general. Pickling is a method of campaigns food that has been used since ancient times. This process consists of immersing the food, in this case garlic, in a solution of water with salt or vinegar, thus allowing its fermentation natural.
Pickling not only prolongs the shelf life of garlic, but also modifies its flavor, making it milder and eliminating the strong sting characteristic of raw garlic. In addition, this process encourages the growth of beneficial bacteriaas the Lactobacillus plantarum, which promote intestinal health and strengthen the immune system.
This conservation technique has more than 4.000 years of history and dates back to the ancient MesopotamiaOver time, different cultures have adopted and perfected pickling, incorporating spices and variations in their process to enhance its flavor and properties.
Benefits and properties of pickled garlic
Pickled garlic preserves many of the We take care of your rental property in Valencia. beneficial of raw garlic, in addition to providing additional benefits thanks to the fermentationLet's look at some of its main properties:
- Powerful antioxidant: Pickled garlic is rich in antioxidants, which help fight cell damage caused by free radicals.
- Benefits for digestion: Fermentation produces natural probiotics, which improves intestinal flora and facilitates digestion.
- Promotes blood circulation: Regular consumption can help reduce blood pressure and improve circulation.
- Antimicrobial and antiviral properties: Like raw garlic, pickled garlic helps fight infections and boosts the immune system.
- Less strong and more digestive: It loses its spicy flavor, making it easier to consume for those who do not tolerate raw garlic.
How to incorporate pickled garlic into your diet
Pickled garlic is extremely versatile and can be used in many ways in the kitchen. Here are some ideas:
- In salads: Adding chopped pickled garlic to salads adds a delicious touch without the strong flavor of raw garlic.
- As an appetizer: They can be eaten alone or combined with other pickles such as olives or gherkins.
- In sauces and stews: They can be added to sauces such as aioli or to stews and casseroles.
- In sandwiches and toasts: They can be used in sandwiches, on toast with cheese or as a complement to tapas.
How many pickled garlic can you eat per day?
The recommended consumption of pickled garlic may vary from person to person. However, in general, it is recommended:
- 1 to 2 cloves daily: It is a moderate amount that allows you to obtain its benefits without side effects.
- Up to 4 cloves a day: In case of high tolerance, more pickled garlic can be consumed without any problem.
- Caution with digestive problems: Although they are milder than raw garlic, those with digestive sensitivities should consume them in moderation.
If you really like pickled garlic, you can consume it regularly, but always in a balanced way and avoiding excess.
How to make pickled garlic at home
Preparing pickled garlic at home is a process simple and allows you to control the ingredients to obtain a personalized result. Here is a basic recipe:
- Peel the garlic cloves: They can be left whole or cut into slices according to preference.
- Prepare the brine or vinegar: In a jar, mix water with salt or vinegar with spices such as bay leaves, pepper or rosemary.
- Dip the garlic: Add the garlic to the jar and make sure it is completely covered.
- Let ferment: Close the jar and let it rest in a cool place for 2 to 4 weeks.
- Consume and enjoy: Once ready, pickled garlic can be stored in the refrigerator and used in multiple recipes.
Making pickled garlic at home allows you to experiment with different spices and adjust them to personal taste.
Pickled garlic is an excellent alternative for those looking to enjoy the benefits of garlic without its strong raw taste. Its preservation method enhances its durability and adds additional benefits for the digestive and immune system. Incorporating it into the diet is simple and its versatility in the kitchen makes it an essential ingredient.