I get asked all the time, what is Black Garlic and how do you use it?
This blog will give you some insights into Black Garlic—what it is, its flavour profile, its health benefits, and lastly, how to use it at home to elevate your cooking.
What is Black Garlic?
Black Garlic is a type of aged garlic in which regular white or purple garlic is cooked at a low temperature (60-70°C) for an extended period, usually in a humidity-controlled environment. This process triggers a Maillard reaction (a chemical reaction) that turns the garlic cloves black, giving them a soft, jelly-like texture and sweet flavour. Black Garlic is distinct from fresh garlic in both taste and texture. The sharp, pungent flavour of fresh garlic becomes mellow and complex.Flavour Profile
- Sweet and Savoury: Unlike raw garlic, Black Garlic has a deep sweetness, with notes of caramel and dates, paired with a mild garlic flavour.
- Umami-Rich: It adds a rich umami depth to dishes, comparable to balsamic vinegar, molasses, or tamarind, making it popular in gourmet cooking.
Health Benefits of Black Garlic
Black Garlic is not only prized for its flavour but also for its enhanced nutritional profile compared to fresh garlic. The aging process increases its antioxidant content, and it retains many of the health benefits of raw garlic, including:- Rich in Antioxidants: Black Garlic has significantly higher levels of antioxidants, which help neutralise free radicals and support overall health.
- Heart Health: Like regular garlic, Black Garlic may help lower cholesterol and improve circulation.
- Anti-inflammatory and Anti-aging: Its anti-inflammatory properties and potential anti-aging effects make Black Garlic a health-boosting superfood.
As Black Garlic continues to gain attention not just in Australia but around the world, it is time to discover what this sweet and savoury ingredient can do for your cooking. Black Garlic’s versatility makes it easy to incorporate into everyday meals, adding a sweet, tangy, and umami-rich depth to your dishes. Ready to unlock a new flavour dimension in your meals? Let us dive in!
How to Use Black Garlic at Home
1. Spread It on Toast - Puree Black Garlic cloves with olive oil and spread it over toasted sourdough. Top with a sprinkle of sea salt for a quick, delicious snack that is both flavourful and nutrient packed.
2. Blend into Salad Dressings - Whip up a savoury Black Garlic vinaigrette by using our Black Garlic cloves blending them with olive oil, balsamic vinegar, lemon juice, and a touch of honey. This rich, tangy dressing pairs beautifully with leafy greens, roasted veggies, or grain bowls.
Try our Aged Black Garlic and Orange Vinaigrette:
3. Add to Marinades - Use mashed cloves of Black Garlic as a base for your marinades for an instant umami boost. It pairs wonderfully with chicken, beef, tofu, or roasted vegetables. The rich, slightly sweet flavour creates complex layers of taste.
4. Stir into Pasta or Rice Dishes - Add a few cloves of Black Garlic into your pasta or rice just before serving for an instant flavourful twist. It pairs beautifully with savoury ingredients, adding depth to dishes.
Try our Black Garlic risotto recipe:
5. Make Black Garlic Aioli - Blend Black Garlic into mayonnaise, lemon juice, and olive oil for a quick, gourmet aioli. Use it as a dip for fries, spread it on sandwiches, or drizzle it over roasted vegetables for a restaurant-worthy side dish.
Try our Aged Black Garlic Aioli recipe:
6. Incorporate into a stir fry - Puree cloves of Black Garlic and incorporate into your stir-fry, making it a flavourful and satisfying meal perfect for any night of the week. Try our Black Garlic Chicken stir-fry recipe:
7. Incorporate into Soups and Stews - Add Black Garlic to soups, stews, or even chilli for a rich umami punch. It pairs well with hearty ingredients like beef, lentils, or mushrooms, adding depth and sweetness to slow-cooked dishes.
Try our Black Garlic roasted pumpkin soup recipe:
8. Top Off Your Pizza - Swap traditional garlic for Black Garlic as a pizza topping. Add mashed Black Garlic cloves to your pizza sauce or spread directly onto the crust before baking. The result? A pizza with a slightly sweet, bold flavour.
Try our Black Garlic Pizza recipe:
9. Use in Desserts or baking - For adventurous cooks, Black Garlic can even be used in desserts. Its deep caramel flavour pairs surprisingly well with dark chocolate, caramel, and other sweet ingredients, offering a unique twist.
Here are a few recipe ideas for inspiration:
Chocolate Coconut Cupcakes
Black Garlic Choc Chip Cookies
With its versatile flavour profile and many health benefits, Black Garlic is more than just a trendy ingredient—it is a superfood that deserves a place in every kitchen. Whether you are a home cook or an adventurous foodie, it is time to elevate your dishes with this amazing ingredient!
At Black Garlic & Co you can find an extensive range of black garlic recipes on our website: Here is the link: Black Garlic Recipes
"Shop Black Garlic & Co now and take your meals to the next level with this flavourful superfood!" To visit our shop click on the link: Shop Black Garlic & Co
The Maillard Reaction defined on Wikipedia:
Click here: Maillard Reaction