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Is there any better smell than garlic? We love garlic in our house, although the kids would tell you otherwise. We eat it in some way, shape or form in our meals daily. There’s nothing more rewarding than having your own fresh stock pile of dried herbs, spices, and powders. I have started drying and powdering my own home grown garlic BUT you don’t have to grow your own to make garlic powder. You can purchase garlic from the grocery store to dry and powder; while it may not be as pungent as home-grown garlic, it’s much more convenient. Whichever route you go, nothing beats fresh garlic powder!
In order to make your own fresh garlic powder, you will need fresh garlic, a dehydrator or oven, grinder, and an air tight storage container.
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I used my dehydrator that I got for Christmas last year and I love it. You are welcome to use your oven for this if you don’t have a dehydrator. Here are a few dehydrators on Amazon that have great reviews if you want check them out.
First thing’s first! Peel your garlic and be sure not to leave on any skins. I don’t think it would hurt if you left some on, but best practice would be to remove every bit you can.
You don’t want to dice up your garlic too small. I like to cut mine into slivers; that way it doesn’t become too small to handle during the drying process.
The drying process in the dehydrator took about 22 hours. Be sure to start as early as possible so that you don’t have to leave your oven or dehydrator on the entire night.
If you are drying your garlic in the oven, you will want to set the temperature to 150-200 F and let the garlic dry for about two hours. Once you hit that first hour, keep checking it to make sure it’s drying and not burning. You’ll know it’s done when you can bend a piece and it snaps.
Once your garlic has dried, you will need a grinder or a mortar and pestle. Here is the link to the grinder I am using.
When your garlic is powdered, you will want to store it in an air tight container. I have been loving these cute little mason jars for my powders and herbs. If you want some for yourself, you can check them out here.
Your garlic powder will keep for 3-4 years if you keep it properly stored. Keeping a stockpile of freshly ground herbs and spices will help ensure you have more intense, vibrant flavors to add to your favorite dishes.
Happy Gardening and cooking,
Ciearra
