How to Mince Garlic

Learn how to mince garlic quickly and efficiently for cooking. Fresh minced garlic adds bold flavor to sauces, marinades, stir-fries, and roasted dishes.

Ingredients

• 1 head of garlic

---

Instructions

1. Separate the Cloves

• Place the garlic head on a cutting board. Press down with the palm of your hand to loosen the cloves.

2. Smash the Cloves

• Take the cloves you plan to use. Hold your knife in your non-dominant hand with the blade facing away.
• Place the flat side of the knife on a clove and press firmly with your dominant hand to break the clove and release it from the skin.

3. Peel the Garlic

• Remove the papery covering by hand. Repeat with all cloves.

4. Trim Ends

• Line up peeled cloves and cut off any dry or woody ends.

5. Mince the Garlic

• Place the tip of your knife on the cutting board. Place your non-dominant hand on top of the knife for stability.
• Use a rocking motion to chop the garlic finely, fanning the knife back and forth until pieces are tiny.

6. Store

• Use immediately or store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 week, or in the freezer for up to 6 months.

---

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Freshly minced garlic adds bold, natural flavor to any dish.
• Reduces the need for pre-minced jarred garlic.
• Simple technique that works for all types of garlic recipes.

---

Tips

• Use a sharp knife for cleaner cuts and easier mincing.
• Pressing the garlic first makes peeling much faster.
• Keep your fingers tucked under to avoid cutting yourself.
• Mince only what you need to maintain fresh flavor.

---

Variations and Substitutions

• Substitute garlic with shallots for a milder flavor.
• For quick prep, use a garlic press instead of mincing by hand.
• Roasted garlic can be mashed and used as an alternative for sweetness.

---

FAQs

Can I use pre-peeled garlic?
Yes, it works, but freshly peeled cloves offer the best flavor.

How do I prevent garlic from sticking to the knife?
Sprinkle a tiny amount of salt on the cutting board or use a sharp knife.

Can I store minced garlic in oil?
Yes, but store in the fridge and use within a week to prevent bacterial growth.

---

Serving and Suggestions

• Add minced garlic to sauces, dressings, marinades, and sautés.
• Mix into roasted vegetables, soups, or stir-fries for extra aroma.
• Use in salad dressings or mashed into butter for garlic bread.