Crushed garlic offers an easy and quick way to add robust garlic flavor to various dishes. It can be prepared at home using fresh garlic cloves and a garlic press or bought pre-made from stores, usually preserved in oil or water. The pungent and aromatic flavor of garlic is a staple in numerous cuisines worldwide, making it an essential kitchen ingredient.
Nutritional Information (per 100g):
- Calories: ~149
- Protein: 6.4g
- Fat: 0.5g
- Carbohydrates: 33g
- Sugars: 1g
- Fiber: 2.1g
- Vitamin C: 31.2mg
- Calcium: 181mg
(Note: Nutritional values can vary based on the brand, specific processing methods, and any added ingredients.)
Ingredients: Crushed garlic. Store-bought versions may also contain water, vegetable oil, citric acid, or preservatives.
What it is good for:
- Enhancing the flavor of a wide variety of dishes.
- Providing potential health benefits, such as improving heart health and possessing antibacterial properties.
- Serving as a source of vitamins and minerals.
- Supporting immune function.
How to Use:
- Mix into stir-fries, soups, stews, or sauces.
- Add to marinades or dressings.
- Spread over toasted bread for a quick garlic toast.
- Incorporate into meat or vegetable dishes for added flavor.
- Use as a base for curry or sautéed dishes.
Recipe Idea – Garlic Butter Spaghetti: Ingredients:
- 200g spaghetti
- 2 tbsp crushed garlic
- 4 tbsp butter
- 1/4 cup chopped parsley
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
- Cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Add the crushed garlic and sauté until it becomes fragrant but not browned.
- Add the drained spaghetti to the skillet and toss to coat in the garlic butter.
- Mix in chopped parsley and season with salt and pepper.
- Serve hot, sprinkled with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Diets it fits into:
- Vegan (if no animal-based additives or preservatives are used, and excluding butter or cheese in the recipe)
- Vegetarian
- Gluten-free (when ensuring other components of the dish are gluten-free)
- Keto (when used in keto-friendly recipes)
- Paleo (in moderation)
Note: Store-bought crushed garlic may contain preservatives or added ingredients. Always check the label if you have dietary restrictions or are looking for a natural product. While garlic is beneficial for many, consuming large amounts can cause digestive discomfort in some people.
