How to store garlic paste in bulk without turning green?

Question

How can you store garlic paste in bulk without it turning green? Get the simple kitchen secret to preserving the color and flavor of your paste.

Answer 1

To prevent garlic paste from turning green when stored in bulk, add an acid like lemon juice or vinegar, store it in an airtight container, and refrigerate or freeze it immediately.

Detailed Explanation:

Garlic paste can turn green due to a reaction between enzymes in the garlic and sulfur compounds when it's crushed or blended. This reaction is accelerated by heat and the presence of copper or iron. Here's a step-by-step guide to prevent this discoloration:

1. Add an Acid: Incorporating an acid like lemon juice (about 1 tablespoon per cup of garlic paste) or white vinegar (about 1 teaspoon per cup) inhibits the enzymatic reaction that causes the green color. The acid lowers the pH, making it less favorable for the enzymes to function.
2. Use Fresh Garlic: Start with the freshest garlic cloves possible. Older garlic is more likely to have undergone some enzymatic changes already, increasing the likelihood of discoloration.
3. Minimize Metal Contact: Avoid using metal utensils or containers during the preparation and storage process. Use glass or plastic containers and utensils to minimize contact with copper or iron, which can exacerbate the greening.
4. Store Properly: Transfer the garlic paste to an airtight container immediately after preparation. This minimizes exposure to air and light, which can also contribute to discoloration.
5. Refrigerate or Freeze: Store the airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week, or freeze it in smaller portions (e.g., ice cube trays) for longer storage (up to several months). Freezing significantly slows down the enzymatic reaction.

Pro Tip:

When freezing garlic paste in ice cube trays, transfer the frozen cubes to a freezer bag for longer-term storage. This prevents freezer burn and makes it easy to grab just the amount you need for a recipe. Label the bag with the date to keep track of freshness.